How To Remove Scars

A woman examining her skin in the mirror

Getting rid of scars, especially when it comes to darker skin types, can be a challenge. However, it’s still possible to remove those stubborn scars.

Why Does Darker Skin Scar So Easily?

Scars are natural parts of the body’s healing process after suffering from some sort of trauma or wound, such as from acne, a skin condition or surgery.

Scars form a deep, thick layer of skin called the dermis is damaged in some way. In response to this damage, the body mends itself with collagen fibers – this results in the formation of a scar.

Darker skin can scar more easily because of skin pigments. Also, these scars tend to be more noticeable on darker skin types.

The Different Types of Scars

There are several types of scars that can occur after skin trauma:

Acne scars. Just as there are different types of scars, there are also different types of acne scars. The best treatment for you will depend on the type of scar you have.

Keloidal scars. These types of scars are elevated, dark, benign tumors that can appear on the ears, back, shoulders and chest. Keloids can often be more difficult to treat.

Hypertrophic scars. Raised and dark scars tend to disappear in time, but can be itchy as they heal.

Atrophic scars. One of the most common examples of this type of scar are stretch marks, where the body creates indentations or sunken marks in the skin.

How To Get Rid Of Scars

Scars typically fade on their own, in time. But, if you want to speed up the process here are some options that may help minimize the appearance of scars:

Over-The-Counter Treatments. These products can be used to treat scars that are caused by cuts or acne.

Prescription Treatments. There are also certain prescriptions that may help. Often, treatments can include steroids or certain antihistamine creams. There are also pressure treatments, as well as silicone gel sheeting. Talk to your dermatologist for the best prescription treatment options.

Surgery. Treatments for deeper, more serious scars may include skin grafts, excision, dermabrasion, or laser surgery. However, if your scars are the result of a recent surgery, it may be best to wait at least a year before considering scar treatment options.

Injections. Steroid injections may help treat scars that aren’t flat, such as keloids or hypertrophic scars.

Vitamin E. Rub the oil from punctured gel caps into scars.

Olive oil. Apply 100% extra virgin) to scars at least twice a day. Within a week you should start to see scars and stretch marks starting to fade.

Vitamin K. Apply twice daily as a cream topically to scars.

Grapeseed extract, jojoba and almond oil. These oils are all effective scar treatments, especially when combined together.

Lavender oil. When used daily, lavender oil can be very effective in the complete removal of scars.

Flaxseed oil. Apply flaxseed oil on scars at least twice a day.

The 10 Top Ways To Remove Scars was originally published on elev8.com