The scar gets in the way of your normal functioning. For instance, a tight scar near the lower eyelid could cause it to pull down, leading to dry eye or vision problems, says dermatologist Dr. Lisa Chipps, of Moy-Fincher-Chipps Facial Plastics/Dermatology in Beverly Hills, California and an assistant clinical professor with the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in Torrance, California. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Usually raised and firm, it does not grow to be bigger than the original wound; the area where the scar is may be uncomfortable or difficult to move; it usually fades and flattens over time Han X, et al. (2017). Biological activities of frankincense essential oil in human dermal fibroblasts. Subrahmanyam M. (2017). Treating minor burns with potato peel dressings. https://jbcr.net.in/JBCR-VOL-4-Issue-1/pdf/JBCR%20Vol%204%20Issue%201%2008082018-3.pdf These products often contain a high-strength retinoid or a topical steroid to decrease itching and swelling. As with any home remedy, have a conversation with your healthcare professional before starting. A doctor can offer insights and recommendations about which remedies you should or shouldn’t try.Thamboo A, et al. (2016). Objective and subjective scar aesthetics with topical manuka honey post-thyroidectomy: A randomized control study.

They’re injected directly into the scar tissue to help decrease the itching, redness, and burning sensations that these scars may produce. They aren’t used on other types of scars because they can cause a permanent indentation if injected directly into a flat scar.

Medical Reasons to Treat Scars

Chemical peels can be used to treat mild scarring. The chemical solution dissolves the outermost layer of the skin to help increase cell turnover and reveal a smoother, less irregular complexion. In one 2019 review that looked at 23 trials, researchers concluded that aloe vera can improve wound healing and can help with scars when used alongside other methods.

Scars can be many colours such as pink, red, purple, white, brown, skin-coloured or darker than the skin around it. No matter how careful you are, scars happen. Environmental exposures, infections, injuries—the possibilities for acquiring scars are endless. While some scars are small and inconspicuous enough to go unnoticed, others may be larger, darker, rougher, or in a highly visible location. If you have a more noticeable scar, you may have considered using a scar cream to help repair it faster. Scar creams can not only speed the healing process but also moisturize the skin, which further promotes health and regrowth.

What to Know Before Treatment

and below: We don't recommend scar creams with this rating; you won't find any on our list. We Also Tested Lei Z, et al. (2019). Rosehip oil promotes excisional wound healing by accelerating the phenotypic transition of macrophages.

A powerful skin protector inhibiting free radicals, allowing your skin’s natural oils to be retained, combating skin damage, boosting skin health. Nature’s most powerful antioxidant and skin protector.Continue rubbing and replacing for about 20 minutes and then let the scar air-dry for about 10 minutes. One 2016 study on rats found that the surface area of wounds topically treated with lavender oil was significantly decreased when compared with that of the control group.