5 Ways to Naturally Get Rid of Acne Scars

December 9, 2020 by VitalSkin Dermatology

Acne scars seem to stick around forever, sometimes. When you have acne scars, you can spend a lot of time wondering about how to make them go away for good. For some of us, the sometimes-harsh chemical products needed to refine the skin and its appearance may be too much. As an alternative, there are natural options out there to consider. These natural skin healers can help reduce the appearance of acne scars and get them gone in no time.

1) Honey

Honey has long been adored for its skin-healing properties. It is also believed to reduce the chance of infection in wounds. While it may be sticky, honey may be worth the college try if you want to get rid of acne scars. Honey is also known to speed wound healing, so if you use it early enough after your skin has been harmed by acne, it may increase the healing and reduce the formation of that seemingly inevitable scar.

2) Lemon Juice

The verdict is still out on lemon juice for treating acne, but there is a good deal of anecdotal evidence out there in support of this acidic substance. According to lemon juice fans, this citrus juice can even out skin tone and reduce the discoloration associated with acne scars. You won’t need too much of it, since it’s acidic—just place a few drops in affected areas, as needed.

3) Aloe Vera

Many of us tote aloe vera with us along on beach trips. After all, its skin healing properties can help reduce the effects of sunburn after we’ve been exposed to too many UV rays. What you may not know is that aloe vera can work wonders on acne, too, reducing inflammation and speeding up the healing process. To stop scars from forming, try dabbing some aloe vera on acne to reduce inflammation and start your skin on the path to healing.

4) Nigella Sativa

Nigella sativa, commonly known as black seed oil, has anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it three for three when it comes to skin care and acne scar reduction. This common essential oil can be found online and in your favorite health food store. Studies show that this sturdy little oil can even out your skin tone, increase healing, reduce the formation of scars and even stop acne before it starts forming in the first place. Sounds worth the effort, right?

5) Rosehip Seed Oil

Another essential oil that is building a reputation for its skin-healing properties is rosehip seed oil. Primarily marketed as an anti-aging skin product, this oil can work wonders on scarring as well. In one study, rosehip seed oil was shown to reduce the appearance of surgical scars. Try applying it once or twice a day to affected areas to start seeing results.

Acne scars are frustrating, but there are many ways out there to treat them and reduce their appearance. With these natural alternatives to other skin remedies, you can heal your skin and even out your skin tone without exposing it to harsher products. These natural remedies can also complement a traditional skin regimen, bringing vital and essential support to tried and true methods. If you would like to learn more about these and other treatments for acne scarring, set up a consultation with a dermatologist today. You will soon be on your way to smoother, healthier skin that is free of the burden of acne scars.

FAQs

Why do some acne scars not fade naturally?

Some acne scars don’t fade naturally because they involve more serious damage to skin structures, including loss of collagen and elastin, which cannot resolve on their own over time. In these cases, professional treatments like resurfacing, microneedling, or physician-guided peels help stimulate repair and smoother texture.

When should acne scars be treated by a dermatologist instead of home care?

You should see a dermatologist if acne scars are deep, uneven, or not improving after consistent at-home care for several months, especially when scars affect texture and confidence. Dermatologists can tailor medical treatments that promote collagen remodeling and improve scar appearance more effectively than natural methods alone.

Can professional acne scar removal work when natural methods don’t?

Professional acne scar removal can produce greater, more predictable improvements when natural methods plateau because clinical tools reach scar tissue below the skin’s surface, improving texture and tone. Dermatologists use advanced options like laser therapy and microneedling to help reduce scars safely.

Do acne scars continue to improve on their own over time?

Some acne scars, especially superficial discoloration, can fade over time with diligent sun protection and gentle skincare, but deeper scars usually show minimal natural improvement. For a more noticeable change, dermatologic treatments help rebuild skin structure and can offer more dramatic results.