Scars are made up of fibrous tissue that replaces skin that’s been damaged through injury. On your face, scars can occur as a result of illnesses like measles, wounds, or even sometimes stubborn pimples that leave a blemish long after they’ve been treated. Scars gradually fade away as your skin re-grows its collagen fiber. Depending on the severity of the injury, scars can be visible on the skin ranging from a few weeks, years, or a lifetime.
If you’ve suffered facial scarring, don’t despair. There are several ways you can speed up the healing process with treatments for even the most stubborn scarring. However, bear in mind that despite your best efforts it might always remain, and you should love the skin you’re in.
If you want to reduce a scar’s appearance, keep reading below for the 5 top scar treatments to try today:
1) Scar Creams
Scar creams are a great way to treat your skin from home. They can be used alone or in conjunction with other treatment options, like the ones on this list, to improve the results.
The best scar cream includes ingredients like silicone, vitamin E, and allantoin to flatten and fade scars. These ingredients hydrate and soften skin and will help you achieve excellent results.
It’s important to note that scar cream alone won’t be able to completely eliminate scars. However, by following a dedicated regimen with a good cream, you can reduce the scar’s appearance significantly.
2) Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a surface-level way to improve the appearance of facial scars. They often require more than one treatment, and the best progress develops over time. This treatment will work on surface-level scars, so deeper injuries may need more intense treatment.
Here’s how it works: A dermatologist will cover the face with a chemical solution. They will either cover the entire face or the portion with scarring. After letting the peel sit, they will remove the chemical solution and a thin layer of top skin will disappear with it. Below will reveal a fresh, smoother layer of skin.
Be aware that chemical peels cause unsightly red, peeling skin for up to 14 days after the treatment. Many people choose to take time off work or work from home during this period. Make sure you understand the process and aftercare of the procedure before booking in.
3) Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion uses a special machine to treat scars. It can produce similar effects as a chemical peel does. Unlike chemical peels, however, it is best for raised scars that you are looking to smooth out.
Here’s how it works: A dermatologist or esthetician will use a tool that resembles a small sander across the skin to gently smooth away the top layer of skin. Most dermabrasion machines use a diamond tip for the best results.
4) Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing, also known as laser scar removal, is another non-invasive procedure that can be used to treat scars on the face. It’s particularly good at treating surgical scars but can also work for less severe scars.
Here’s how it works: A dermatologist uses an intense light, or laser, that will reduce the shape, color, and size of the scar. With laser removal, there are different types of laser scar removal procedures. Before getting anything done, you’ll consult with your dermatologist about what will work best for your skin.
5) Silicone Sheets
New or recent scars can be healed by silicone gel sheets. These are great for post-surgery healing. The permeated surface allows the skin to retain moisture and breathe while it heals. The compression will keep the scar tissue flat rather than raised. This can help prevent keloid scars from forming (raised scar tissue) or help to reduce their appearance and flatten them once they have formed.
You’ll need to wear the sheets consistently and change them often to see the results.
Bonus: Natural Remedies to Consider
As with most health and beauty concerns, there are several natural remedies that claim to bring successful results.
- One of these includes emu oil, which people say supports wound-healing and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Another common treatment is the daily intake of grape seed extract to enhance epidermal tissue growth.
- Supplementing with vitamin A drops and healing clay masks also support scar healing.
A Solution for Every Scar
Whether your facial scarring is from acne, surgery, burns, or anything else, you should be able to find a treatment that will reduce its appearance and re-capture your confidence.
