Do Natural Remedies for Scars Really Work? Here’s What to Know

Scars can be an unpleasant reminder of past injuries or surgeries. While the most effective ways to get rid of them are laser therapy and prescription treatments, there are natural remedies can fade scars, at least somewhat.

These methods can be great for small scars, or just to reduce the appearance of them. Just don’t expect them to completely get rid of scars.

My Experience with Scars

Before we get into all the nitty gritty, I’ll quickly give you a run down of my personal experience, and that of some friends and family. Here’s what we tried, and the results we got:

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• Long surgical scar on foot: used an OTC scar ointment (very pricey), and the scar became very thin and almost colorless over time.
• Biopsy scar on chest: used natural remedies, and the scar is still fairly visible.
• On the recommendation of dermatologists, I know several people who used petroleum jelly (Vaseline) and their scars became nearly invisible.

Things to note: on the surgical scar, the surgeon worked hard to make the scar small, so that may have contributed to why it came out so well. He was really proud of it, too.

These biopsies all take a chunk of skin, so getting a result of near invisibility from just Vaseline is amazing. The result I got with natural remedies was good, but not as good as friends and family who used Vaseline, so either that or the pricey OTC ointment are the clear winners here.

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I now use Vaseline on any cut I get to ensure it won’t become a scar. Vaseline isn’t most people’s idea of a “natural” remedy, but it’s cheap and works really well.

So let’s go ahead and talk about the natural remedies now.

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is a popular natural remedy known for its soothing and healing properties. It contains essential vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that help fade scars by promoting collagen production and reducing inflammation.

To use aloe vera gel for scar fading, simply apply a thin layer to a cut or scratch twice daily and massage gently until fully absorbed.

How Effective Is It? I think it’s the very best thing for small burns, like from a curling iron or a hot stove, or even sunburn. I don’t know why, but it works very well for me to heal burned skin. For other types of wounds, my results have been mixed. Sometimes I end up with no scar, but not always.

Also note: aloe vera gel is more likely to be effective on fresh scars or scars that are still in the healing process. Older scars or deep scars may not see as much improvement.

The Science: Aloe vera contains compounds like acemannan and polysaccharides that have anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation plays a role in scar formation, and by reducing inflammation, aloe vera may help minimize scar tissue.

It may also promote collagen production in the skin. Collagen is an essential protein that helps with wound healing and tissue repair.

Moisturizing effect: Aloe vera is an excellent natural moisturizer, which can help improve your skin’s texture and elasticity, which could contribute to the overall improvement of scars.

Honey

There is actually some scientific evidence that honey can help to fade scars. Interestingly, the type of honey used can play a role, with some studies suggesting that medical-grade or “active” honey (such as Manuka honey) may have more potent wound-healing properties.

Apply a thin layer of raw honey directly to the scarred area and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing off with warm water. For best results, repeat this process daily.

How Effective It Is: Maybe I’m using it wrong, but I’ve never seen much effect from honey. Or maybe it’s just something about my skin.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice less well-documented scientifically, but some people find it helps. The way it works is that it’s a natural bleaching agent that can help lighten the appearance of scars. Note that this is only a good idea if the scar is darker than the surrounding skin.

To use lemon juice for fading scars, squeeze fresh lemon juice into a small bowl, dip a cotton ball into the juice, and apply it directly to the scarred area. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.

My Own Experience: lemon irritates my skin, which is sensitive. It’s important to know that lemon juice can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, so be sure to apply sunscreen before going outside.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a versatile natural remedy that offers numerous benefits for the skin. Its use in fading scars, however, isn’t well-documented. Results are mixed.

Its moisturizing properties help hydrate the skin, which could reduce the appearance of scars. It also contains fatty acids that aid in the repair of damaged skin cells.

To use, just warm a small amount of coconut oil in your hands until it melts, then gently massage it onto the scarred area for a few minutes. Repeat this process twice daily for optimal results.

My Experience: It’s an amazing moisturizer. I think it’s what helped the most with the biopsy scar. But I’m not sure it works as well as Vaseline.

Exfoliation

With fresh scars, you need to be gentle to let the skin heal. But at some point, it’s helpful to exfoliate dead skin from the scars.

You can use a rough washcloth (I love my Japanese washcloth), an exfoliating product or make a simple homemade exfoliator by mixing sugar or baking soda with olive oil or honey to create a paste. With any of them, gently rub the area in circular motions for a few minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.

Exfoliate once or twice a week to avoid overdoing it. That can make things worse.

Be Patient

If these are going to help at all, it’s likely to take weeks. Be patient and keep using them daily before you give up.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your scars are severe, deep or causing you emotional distress, these remedies probably aren’t going to be enough. A dermatologist or skincare professional can recommend additional treatments such as laser therapy, microdermabrasion, or chemical peels that complement your natural remedies and accelerate scar fading.

Remember, every scar is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. t you are taking steps towards healthier and more confident skin.