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Yes, It Is Possible To Treat Your Scars At Home

The Best Scar Creams According To DermatologistsChristine Giordano

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Whether it's a scar that dates back to your tree-climbing days or a more recent one from a surprise c-section, nearly everyone garners a collection of scars. Maybe you've even tried using scar cream to fade them. Scarring is caused by both trauma injuries and inflammatory conditions (like acne), which can cause a loss or change in your skin's collagen structure, meaning you need the best scar creams to actually get your skin back to normal.

Meet Our Experts: Marisa Garshick, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell New York Presbyterian Medical Center, Deanne Robinson, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine

"Scars are the way our body responds to injury, and their [appearance] depends on the extent of the injury, the location, as well as some individual factors," says dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD. "Part of what determines how the scar looks is how the collagen is arranged and how thick or disorganized it is during the wound healing stages."

Because of this, no two scars are the same. From raised ones (such as hypertrophic or keloid scars), to indentations, discolored spots, and stretch marks, there's a variety of scar types. While there's nothing wrong with embracing your scars (just look at how celebs like Sarah Hyland and Lena Dunham have proudly displayed theirs on social media), there's also no shame in wanting them to go the eff away.

For anyone who falls in the latter camp, there are two main courses of action: The first is booking an appointment with your derm to discuss in-office treatments for scars. According to dermatologist Deanne Robinson, MD, your doc will advise you on the proper plan on attack based off your scar's specific needs—PDL lasers, resurfacing treatments, light therapy, micro needling, and cortisone injections are all possible solutions. However, if you'd rather skip a pricy (sometimes painful) procedure, an alternative option is investing in an at-home remedy like one of these dermatologist-approved best scar creams.

Faded Serum for Dark Spots & Discoloration

This cream is a triple threat against scars thanks to tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and azelaic acid. Not only will it help lighten scars, it will also help brighten your overall tone.

Rave review: "I love this serum! I use it on my back, especially to clear up my dark spots and with consistency I have noticed improvement. I apply it right before sunscreen."

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Faded Serum for Dark Spots & Discoloration

$38.00

sephora.Com

Cicalfate Scar Gel

Silicones along with copper and zinc sulfate create the ideally healing environment for scars in this gel formula. Paired with the brand's signature thermal spring water, it's also feels super soothing.

Rave review: "I have been using this scar gel for two months on facial surgery scars while doing scar massage and it does seem to be helping to flatten and soften them. I'm really pleased with this product too because, unlike another I used, it hasn't caused any milia or blackheads. I will definitely buy this again."

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Cicalfate Scar Gel

$28.00

dermstore.Com

Advanced Scar Treatment + SPF 30

"This is a topical silicone treatment that uses patented FDA-approved Silishield technology to help soften and flatten raised scars and improve itch, redness, and discoloration," says Dr. Garshick. "It creates an invisible shield through a gel that goes on smooth and dries quickly."

Rave review: "This is the best scar cream around, my dermatologist recommended it. The smallest bottle was most expensive in their office than this one was. It take a very small amount to cover a good sized area. It goes on smoothly and dries clear."

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Advanced Scar Treatment + SPF 30

$39.99

amazon.Com

Scar Gel

"Silicone has long been a recommended scar treatment, as it's thought to increase hydration and provide occlusion, which helps to normalize the scar tissue," says Dr. Garshick. That's why you see silicone in so many scar creams. She prefers this non-greasy gel, because, not only can it be used on old and new scars, but its moisturizing properties prevent too much collagen from building up within the scar.

Rave review: "This stuff really does a good job to prevent new scars. I stared applying 2 weeks after surgery and no scars were visible after the wound healed all the way. I have a history of keloid scars and wanted to prevent these from forming."

Skincare Oil

Bio-Oil has long been a cult-classic, thanks to its multi-tasking formula. This lightweight oil can be used on your hair, face, body, and you guessed it—scars. "It combines chamomile, which is calming and reduced redness, calendula, which has antibacterial effects, and vitamins A and E, which help promote collagen and hydrate," says Dr. Garshick. Its easy-to-spread oil consistency also makes it ideal for larger scars, like stretch marks, since it'll glide over skin.

Rave review: "This stuff is amazing. Helps to even skin tone and moisturize. Doesn't make me break out. Helps with my KP on my legs as well."

Silicone Scar Sheets

Think of these like sheet masks for your scars. "They provide silicone to scars through an adhesive that helps to mimic the natural skin barrier to provide an optimal environment for healing," explains Dr. Garshick. "It helps to hydrate the skin, and the adhesive is comfortable and flexible, enabling you to keep the scar covered and protected while you heal."

Rave review: "These are amazing and I have had phenomenal results. I honestly noticed results after just a couple days. I'm still wearing these scar sheets and wear them about 12 hours a day and put it on first thing in the morning. I followed the directions and used a non moisturizing soap for cleaning and even after 2 weeks they are still sticky and have not lifted at the corners at all."

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Silicone Scar Sheets

$32.99

amazon.Com

Petroleum Jelly Original

As soon as a wound begins healing, it's important to jumpstart the treatment process to minimize scarring. "During this time, it is important to maintain a skin barrier while also providing moisture to a healing wound and limit scab formation," says Dr. Garshick. That's why she suggests applying a oldie-but-goodie petroleum jelly like Vaseline ASAP.

Rave review: "I have been using Vaseline petroleum jelly since I was 13. I'm almost 56 and will never give it up. I use it on my feet to moisturize and after showering. I carry one in my bag and in my desk. At times, in my car. Needless to say, I love Vaseline."

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Petroleum Jelly Original

$1.79

target.Com

target.Com Leg and Body Makeup

While it technically won't aid in healing your scars, this creamy, sunscreen-infused makeup conceals any unsightly marks for up to 16 hours while keeping your skin hydrated.

Rave review: "This product did not disappoint! The color matched perfectly and the tub it comes in is huge. I am glad to have my confidence back by being able to cover some imperfections. Have always been a fan of this brand."

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Leg and Body Makeup

$40.00

amazon.Com

HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

Fact: The sun is terrible for you skin. Beyond increasing your odds of skin cancer and premature aging, UV exposure also worsens the look of scars. Scar tissue is more prone to burning (which leads to hyperpigmentation and darkening), so it's extra-important to protect skin with an SPF. Look for a tinted mineral formula to conceal and shield at the same time. "This is a great mineral-based sunscreen with a tint that helps provide coverage as well," says Dr. Robinson. "It's great if someone wants to help mask the appearance of scars."

Rave review: "I love this product! I am in my early 50s and have been using this daily for almost 2 years. I live in Arizona, and sunscreen is necessary. This product has great protection and great coverage! I do not need to use makeup base and I only need one push of the product for full coverage. It is moisturizing and kind to my skin. I highly recommend! I tell my friends and family what I'm using as I receive compliments."

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HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

$60.00

alastin.Com

alastin.Com Dermal Spray

Spritz this preventive spray on any new wounds that look like they'll be sticking around for a while. It has hypochlorite acid in it, which, according to Dr. Robinson, is an ingredient that decreases the redness associated with scarring. Plus, this formula cleanses, hydrates, and minimizes damaged tissue.

Rave review: "This soothing spray was recommended to me by my dermatologist. It is very helpful for my skin after having laser treatment."

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Dermal Spray

$62.00

lovelyskin.Com

Natural Ingredients That Can Help Minimize The Appearance Of Scars

Scarring is a skincare nightmare. By some miracle, your acne has cleared up, but now the evidence lingers in the form of dark spots. Or maybe, there's a childhood accident your skin won't let you forget. While there is a clever way to hide scars with makeup, you want these marks gone even on a fresh-face day.

Scars are a natural part of the body's healing process. Sometimes the new skin just doesn't match up with the existing surface, or there is damaged skin tissue, like in the case of stretch marks. Of course, preventing scars is the best way to minimize their primetime appearance, but that is easier said than done. Natural DIYs can be the answer to fading scars with ingredients you might already have on hand. However, the longer you've had a scar, the harder it will be to minimize its appearance. Most marks won't go away completely, but you can still significantly reduce their presence.

Spot Treatments With Natural Ingredients

Spot treatments are a quick and easy way to fight persistent scarring. Aloe vera is an amazing succulent all around. It is healthy to consume and it's a plant that can help fade dark spots. A 2016 study published in the Annals of Plastic Surgery found aloe vera reduces inflammation and scar tissue plus speeds up wound healing. To use this natural remedy, cut a small piece of your aloe vera stem and remove the green peel. The gel is what you want to treat your scars. Directly apply the gel to your spots in a circular motion and let it sit for 30 minutes. After your half-hour sitcom is over, rinse with cool water. Try this remedy twice a day.

Another option that's also a sweet treat to help fade scars is Manuka honey. This ingredient is made from the nectar of the Manuka tree. Not any ole honey will do. In a 2018 research paper published in Bioengineering, it was concluded Manuka honey prompted faster wound healing, improved tissue regeneration, and had antibacterial properties. You can apply it daily to the marks or mix the thick sap with water to create a mask. Leave it on for a few minutes before washing it off.

A Natural Overnight Remedy To Lighten Scars

While spot treatments help, it's not always convenient to have plant juice on your face. This is where overnight remedies come in. One of the best ways to use apple cider vinegar is to improve scars. Dermatologist Raechele Cochran Gathers told Real Simple, "It contains citric acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (or AHA) used to exfoliate, brighten, and smooth [your complexion], as well as polyphenolic antioxidants, which might help improve the skin's appearance."

Use apple cider vinegar as a PM treatment. Since this vinegar is potent, it has to be diluted with water first. Mix two parts apple cider vinegar with one part distilled water. You can use a cotton swab or ball to apply the mixture to your scar and let it dry. Leave the ingredients to work their magic overnight and rinse it off in the morning. If you have sensitive skin, it is always best to patch test treatments or consult with your dermatologist before diving in.

Read this next: 7 Skincare Products You Should Be Using And 7 You Shouldn't

How To Get Rid Of Stretch Marks: 11 Ingredients To Try

There is no perfect solution for stretch marks, but topical treatments can help hydrate your skin, promote healing, and even out skin tone.

Stretch marks, also called striae, happen when your skin changes shape rapidly due to growth or weight gain. They usually aren't a sign that anything is wrong with your health.

Anyone can get stretch marks, regardless of gender. Pregnancy and puberty are the two most common times in life to get them.

At first, a stretch mark will appear as a thin red or purple line of a different texture than the skin around it. Most stretch marks will fade on their own over time.

They may become less noticeable after fading. Faded stretch marks usually look lighter in color than the surrounding skin and a little shiny, like a scar.

Research tells us there is no secret cure-all ingredient for stretch marks — at least not yet. But some home remedies can help minimize the appearance of stretch marks and could help them fade more quickly.

Newer stretch marks are more likely to respond to treatment.

1. Vitamin A

Vitamin A in skin care products is referred to as a retinoid. Retinoids can make skin appear smoother and more youthful. They're used in many over-the-counter (OTC) topical cosmetic creams.

Research from 2015 focused on tretinoin, a prescription-strength form of retinol. In an older study from 1996, researchers found that tretinoin helped stretch marks appear smaller and less severe.

However, few recent and large-scale studies have examined the efficacy of tretinoin for stretch marks. More research is needed to identify all its effects on stretch marks.

Vitamin A products can sometimes irritate the skin, so it's best to follow instructions carefully if you try this ingredient. Because there are known risks to using retinoids during pregnancy, you should not use them if you are:

pregnant

lactating

trying to become pregnant

2. Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is a powerful ingredient for moisturizing and skin healing. It's often used in creams, lotions, and serums.

The visible appearance of stretch marks comes along with invisible changes to your skin. These changes make skin less elastic, in part because collagen isn't doing its usual job of strengthening the skin.

Hyaluronic acid could have the potential to effect skin elasticity, according to a 2014 study.

In fact, some research from 2017 suggests that hyaluronic acid can improve the appearance of stretch marks, though more research is needed to be sure. To try it, apply a hyaluronic acid product to the affected area each day.

3. Centella

Centella asiatica is an herb that's a popular ingredient in Korean beauty (K-beauty) products.

Known as cica creams, products containing centella are sometimes used as scar treatments or to help calm and repair sensitive skin. Cica creams are growing in popularity in the United States, but they can be pricey.

Centella helps reduce inflammation and promote collagen production. Research from 2015 suggested that creams containing centella may help prevent stretch marks during pregnancy and improve how they look. But the researchers cautioned that more evidence is still needed.

4. Sugar

Sugar is a popular exfoliator. The small crystals gently scrub away dead skin and leave you feeling smoother.

Microdermabrasion performed by a dermatologist is one of the few clinically proven methods to make stretch marks fade. So, this home remedy for exfoliation seems worth a try. You might already have the ingredients at home.

To make a sugar scrub:

Combine 1/2 cup sugar with a softening agent, like almond oil or coconut oil. Mix the oil into the sugar, a little at a time. Your scrub is ready when it looks like wet beach sand. You may need to add up to 1/2 cup oil in total.

Gently rub the mixture over the part of your body where the stretch marks are.

Repeat 2 or 3 times per week while in the shower or bath. Rinse with warm water.

Make small batches of the scrub as needed. You can store your sugar scrub in a sealed container for a short time, but if it starts to look or smell off, start fresh with a new batch.

5. Aloe vera

Aloe vera has a long history as a natural skin treatment. The jelly from inside the leaves of the aloe vera plant can be applied directly to skin to soothe and moisturize.

Research from 2018 suggests that aloe vera helps skin heal from burns and wounds. Because stretch marks are a type of scarring from damaged skin, aloe's skin-repairing properties might help with stretch mark prevention or fading.

While little clinical evidence exists for aloe vera as a stretch mark cure, pure aloe vera may be worth trying because it can soften and heal skin.

Apply pure aloe vera from a plant or an OTC product to your stretch marks daily after your shower.

6. Coconut oil

Virgin coconut oil has some known benefits for the skin. It can help maintain your skin's protective barrier.

Research from 2018 suggested that coconut oil improves dry skin and some skin infections. And in a 2010 study using rats, virgin coconut oil helped skin wounds heal faster.

There's not a lot of evidence to promote the use of coconut oil for stretch marks. Research on other plant oils (olive oil, almond oil, and cocoa butter) hasn't shown any improvement from their use.

That said, it's possible that the action of gently massaging an oil onto your skin could prevent stretch marks, 2015 research suggests. A gentle daily massage of your stretch marks with coconut oil might help, and it's not likely to cause harm.

Of course, if you're allergic to coconut, you'll want to avoid this ingredient.

Keep in mind that any skin care treatment can occasionally cause allergies or sensitivities. This includes home remedies and natural approaches. So, if you notice a reaction, stop using the ingredient.

Medical procedures for stretch marks are delivered in-office by trained professionals. You will likely be treated by a doctor — a dermatologist, cosmetic surgeon, or plastic surgeon — or a licensed professional, depending on what state you're located in, the procedure, and the possible risks.

More research is needed. However, studies — such as one from 2017 and another from the same year — suggest that stretch marks can be visibly improved by the medical treatments listed below.

It's best to have realistic expectations about the results. Even medical treatments can't fully erase or prevent stretch marks.

7. Laser therapy

Lasers deliver focused light to the skin. Depending on what kind of laser is used, treatment could have the potential to increase collagen production and help stretch marks fade to blend in with the surrounding skin, 2017 research suggests. Some laser treatments require multiple sessions before you'll see effects.

Laser therapy is also used to diminish skin texture and redness caused by scars and rosacea. So it makes sense that laser therapy could potentially improve the look of stretch marks.

8. Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion involves exfoliating the skin in a way that at-home remedies can't. Using a handheld wand, a professional applies an abrasive substance to your skin to gently scrub away dead skin cells.

Research on microdermabrasion for stretch marks is limited, but a 2017 research review suggests it may reduce the severity of the marks.

9. Microneedling

Microneedling uses a device that creates tiny pricks in the skin. This treatment causes the skin to produce collagen and elastin, which could help loose skin appear tighter.

Unlike at-home tools, in-office microneedling goes deeper into your skin to target the skin's healing function more effectively and more safely, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Microneedling is a minimally invasive way to treat the texture of stretch marks, even older ones, and it may help to even out skin tone.

10. Radiofrequency therapy

Radiofrequency treatments send energy waves into your skin that stimulate collagen production. The result can be firmer skin.

Recently, radiofrequency treatments have been combined with microneedling treatments in order to send the energy waves even deeper into the skin. The needle penetrates the skin and releases radiofrequency into the channels, stimulating deeper layers of collagen, per 2019 research.

Additional research from 2019 indicates that radiofrequency therapy may improve the look of stretch marks, but more studies are still needed to understand how it compares to other available treatments.

11. Chemical peel

Chemical peels involve the application of an acid, such as glycolic acid, to the skin's surface. Professional chemical peels are more powerful than at-home versions and are applied in-office.

Peels provide a deep exfoliation of the skin and promote collagen production, per a 2018 review. This may help make stretch marks look smaller, but the available evidence is limited.

In general, clinical procedures are more effective than home remedies for stretch marks. But these procedures aren't typically covered by insurance, and they can be costly.

Not all options are appropriate for all skin types, so it's important to consult a dermatologist to find out which one is right for you.

Stretch marks can happen to anyone, but some people are more likely than others to get them. Genetics is one of the strongest predictors. If people you're related to have stretch marks, you're likely to develop them, too.

Pregnancy is a common cause of stretch marks. Research published in 2015 suggests that up to 90 percent of pregnant people will develop stretch marks.

Other risk factors include:

using a corticosteroid medication

losing or gaining weight rapidly

having breast enlargement surgery

increasing muscle size rapidly, for example through bodybuilding

Remember that stretch marks are common. The changes that can cause stretch marks — such as growth spurts, weight changes, and pregnancy — happen to many people.

There is no perfect home remedy, but topical treatments can help with hydration and can promote your skin's healing processes. For both natural treatments and medical procedures, more research is needed to clarify what's most effective and who they are most likely to help.

If you're treating stretch marks due to pregnancy, it's always best to check with your doctor to ensure the treatment is safe to use.

Almost all stretch marks will fade over time, even if you don't treat them. Rarely will stretch marks stay as prominent as when they first appear.

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