Acne scars are caused by the excess production of collagen during the healing process that leaves a mark or pockmark on the skin.
Luckily, there are many natural ingredients that can help reduce these scars. But it’s important to be patient and follow a consistent skincare routine.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular home remedy for a variety of health conditions. It’s made from fermenting raw, unfiltered juice extracted from pressed apples.
It contains organic acids like lactic, citric and malic acid that may help kill the bacteria that causes acne.
They also exfoliate skin, sloughing off dead cells to reveal fresh, smoother skin.
However, the powerful organic acids need to be diluted before they can be used.
This can be a problem if you have weak or sensitive skin. It can also irritate the skin barrier and make it more difficult to heal.
Cucumber Water
Cucumber water is an incredibly hydrating drink. It’s also rich in potassium, which can help lower blood pressure and aid in muscle recovery.
It’s a healthier option to sodas, juices and sports drinks. It’s also a good source of antioxidants, which can prevent and delay cell damage from oxidative stress.
You can make cucumber water by soaking thinly sliced cucumbers in eight cups of filtered water for an hour or two. You can also add other ingredients, like fresh mint or sliced ginger.
Honey
Honey is one of the best natural remedies to remove acne scars. It contains antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that can help soothe inflamed skin and promote healing.
Glucuronic acid in honey reacts with your skin’s sugar content to produce hydrogen peroxide, which is effective against bacteria that causes acne.
Honey also contains fatty acids, vitamin B, peptides, amino acids and antioxidants that soothe inflamed skin and reduce redness. It can also fade acne marks post-healing.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is one of the most effective and natural treatments for acne, pimples, blackheads and other skin issues. It also helps to remove acne scars.
It is a great natural anti-aging treatment as it boosts collagen production and can reduce fine lines, crow’s feet and dark circles.
If you have acne scars, consider applying aloe vera gel to the affected area at least once a week. You can use store-bought aloe vera gel or boil a fresh aloe leaf to create a paste.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce acne lesions. It also soothes skin by reducing swelling and itching associated with inflammatory acne.
It works on acne by targeting a specific type of bacteria, Propionibacterium that causes inflammation, redness and itching. Terpinen-4-ol, one of the components found in tea tree oil, attacks this bacteria to help prevent acne breakouts.
You can apply tea tree oil in a neat or diluted form, depending on your skin sensitivity. It is important to test it out on a small area of skin first before applying it more generously.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural exfoliator that can help reduce the appearance of acne scars. It can also be used to reduce the redness of blemishes and inflammation.
The white powder helps absorb excess oil and dries up blemishes, making them less likely to reoccur.
It can be mixed with other ingredients such as moisturizer, lemon juice, honey, coconut oil or apple cider vinegar.
It can be applied like a facemask or scrub, but be aware that it is a drying ingredient and could irritate sensitive skin. Use no more than two tablespoons at a time.
