Acne affects an estimated 90% of adolescents (1). Severely inflamed acne can leave behind scars. Acne scars cause a lot of psychological distress, especially in adolescents (1). But it is important to remember that scar formation is normal. Show
In this article, we will be talking about some home remedies that may help lighten the appearance of acne scars and pimple marks. These remedies may not work on all skin types. Hence, consult a skincare expert before exploring these options. In This Article
Acne Scars Vs. Pimple MarksAcne scars are usually pitted and almost never heal completely. Pimple marks are tiny, flat, and dark spots caused by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that can fade in a few weeks on their own. Picking or popping a pimple can increase the chances of pimple marks. However, they don’t cause long-term damage to your skin. On the other hand, acne scars take a considerably longer time to heal and are difficult to remove completely. Note: Some acne scars are caused by inflammation and require medical treatment. They cannot be treated with home remedies. Consult a dermatologist to find out if this is the case with your acne scars. Home Remedies That May Help Lighten Acne Scars And Pimple Marks1. Orange Peel Powder
Shutterstock A study was conducted in Japan to study the effect of orange peel extracts on melanogenesis, a complex process that involves the formation of melanin. It was found that the extract could help suppress melanogenesis. Hence, orange peel may help eliminate acne spots and blemishes (2). You Will Need
What You Have To Do
How Often You Should Do ThisDo this 3-4 times a week. 2. Coconut OilA research conducted to study the potential benefits of plant oils on skin shows that coconut oil possesses antibacterial properties that may help reduce acne (3) You Will Need
What You Have To Do
How Often You Should Do ThisDo this every night before going to bed. Note: Do not try this remedy if you have oily skin as coconut oil may clog pores and worsen acne. 3. Tea Tree Oil
Shutterstock Tea tree oil possesses can reduce acne lesions and scaling (4). Their antimicrobial properties can help reduce the occurrence of pimples. However, there is no evidence to prove that it lightens acne scars and pimple marks. As topical tea tree oil is considered safe for most people, you can try out this remedy. You Will Need
What You Have To Do
How Often You Should Do ThisRepeat once daily until the scars vanish. Note: Do a patch test before trying this remedy as tea tree oil may cause skin irritation. 4. Aloe Vera GelA mixture of aloe vera, tea tree oil, and propolis has also been found to reduce acne scars and pimple marks (5). Aloe vera can reduce acne scars by reducing hyperpigmentation and acting as an immunity booster and anti-inflammatory agent (6), (7) You Will Need
What You Have To Do
How Often You Should Do ThisYou can do this every night before going to bed. 5. Lemon Juice
Shutterstock Lemon juice contains vitamin C that exhibits antipigmentary properties (8). Thus, it may fade acne scars, blemishes and pimple marks over time. You Will Need
What You Have To Do
How Often You Should Do ThisYou can do this 3-4 times a week. Note: If you have sensitive skin, do not try this remedy as it may cause redness and irritation. Do a patch test before the remedy, and make sure you apply sunscreen afterward as lemon juice can make your skin photosensitive. 6. Green TeaGreen tea contains polyphenols, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help in the prevention and treatment of acne (9). Green tea also helps reduce scars and pimple marks with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties (10) You Will Need
What You Have To Do
How Often You Should Do ThisDo this 1-2 times a week. 7. Turmeric
Shutterstock Turmeric is one of the oldest and most commonly used spices for skin remedies. Studies show that topical application of turmeric showed improvement in skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, and alopecia (11). It also contains curcumin, which is an effective skin-lightening agent (12). Thus, it may fade acne scars and pimple marks. However, current studies are limited and further research is essential for a better understanding of how it may help reduce acne scars and pimple marks. You Will Need
What You Have To Do
How Often You Should Do ThisYou can do this once every alternate day. Note: If you have sensitive skin, do not try this remedy as it may cause redness and irritation. Do a patch test before the remedy, and make sure you apply sunscreen afterward. 8. Potato JuiceA study published in the Journal Of Medicinal Plants Studies states that the potassium, sulfur, phosphorus, and chloride found in potato are useful for treating acne blemishes and pimple spots (13). Potato also contains azelaic acid that may reduce hyperpigmentation caused by mild to moderate acne and breakouts (13), (14). You Will Need
What You Have To Do
How Often You Should Do ThisYou can apply this juice 2-3 times a week. 9. CocoaCocoa butter is rich in polyphenols and essential minerals that make it highly suitable for the treatment of skin problems. It exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can reduce acne and promote the repair of skin tissues (15). This may help in lightening acne scars. You Will Need
What You Have To Do
How Often You Should Do ThisDo this daily until the scars disappear. Note: Avoid this remedy if you have oily skin. 10. Witch Hazel
Shutterstock Witch hazel is found in many acne cosmeceuticals (16). It contains salicylic acid, which might help reduce the number of acne spots (17). You Will Need
What You Have To Do
How Often You Should Do ThisDo this daily until the scars disappear. 11. Baking SodaBaking soda is known for its ability to kill bacteria (18). This might help control acne occurrence. However, there are no scientific studies to verify its efficacy. There is only anecdotal evidence and testimonials that speak about the effect of baking soda in clearing acne scars and pimple marks. Some studies also emphasize the harmful effects of baking soda. Hence, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before trying it on your skin. You Will Need
What You Have To Do
How Often You Should Do ThisDo this 2-3 times a week. Note: Baking soda can dry out the skin, so apply a hydrating moisturizer immediately after using this remedy. 12. Vitamin SupplementsTaking vitamin supplements may help reduce acne scars and pimple marks. Vitamin A can help treat acne, though its direct effect on acne scars has not been studied (19). Although vitamin E is a popular treatment for scars, blemishes and wounds, no studies have been able to prove its efficacy (20). Ascorbic acid or vitamin C is rich in antioxidants and its topical application is suitable for treating acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (21). You can also consume foods rich in vitamins, like green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, fish, carrots, and avocados. Note: Do not take these supplements without consulting your doctor. These were a few natural tips and tricks to lighten acne and pimple scars. Let us now understand how you can prevent the recurrence of these scars. Preventive Tips For Acne And Pimple ScarsAcne and pimples occur fairly frequently, but you can always make sure that they don’t leave scars on your face. Some tips that may help you prevent scars include:
Acne can be classified into two subtypes – non-inflammatory and inflammatory. Whiteheads and blackheads usually fall under the non-inflammatory subtype. Papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts are the inflammatory types of acne. Among these types, it is inflammatory acne that tends to leave behind scars and marks. Inflamed acne blemishes occur when your pores become engorged as a result of excess oil, dead cells, and bacteria clogging them. This leads to the swelling of the pores, which causes the follicle walls to expand and break. If this rupture occurs close to the surface of your skin, the resulting acne lesion is usually minor and heals quickly. However, if the break in the follicle is deep, the lesion will be more severe, and the infected material may leak out into the dermis (the second layer of skin) and destroy healthy skin tissues. Acne scars are further divided into different types. Types Of Acne ScarsThe most common types of acne scars are:
Regardless of the type of acne scars, the remedies shared above may help control and reduce the appearance of acne. However, in some cases, you may require more long-term treatment as the acne might be a sign of other underlying conditions. In such cases, you must consult your dermatologist immediately. How Do Dermatologists Treat Acne Scars?Although many recipes and ingredients are recommended to treat acne scars, not all of them have proven to work. To overcome this situation, visit a dermatologist. Here are some common dermatological treatment options that your doctor might suggest. Note that these procedures are carried out under medical supervision, so self-medication is strictly prohibited.
Infographic: Other Treatment Procedures For Acne ScarsAcne and acne scars are pretty common, and there is a flurry of treatments for them. While we have mentioned many options — natural remedies and dermatological treatments — the list doesn’t end there. Check out the infographic below to learn about some more treatments and methods for eliminating acne scars. Together, you and your doctors can decide what’s best for you.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team Excess oil and dead skin clog your pores, resulting in the development of acne in the deeper layers of the skin. This may result in acne scars such as icepick scars or rolling scars. Aloe vera, turmeric, baking soda, or lemon juice are some of the ingredients that may reduce the appearance of your acne scars over time. Along with that, practicing proper skincare hygiene and consuming a balanced diet may prevent acne scars in the long run. However, acne may sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical condition and requires long-term treatment under the guidance of a doctor. Consult a doctor if the above home remedies do not reduce your acne. Frequently Asked QuestionsHow long do acne scars take to fade? Acne scars may take 6 months to fade on their own without the help of any treatments. Do acne holes go away? Not all types of acne disappear completely. Some need regular medical treatments along with home remedies to see desired results. SourcesArticles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Check out our editorial policy for further details.
Was this article helpful? The following two tabs change content below.
Shaheen holds a postgraduate degree in Human Genetics and Molecular Biology. She is a Geneticist with proficiency in Biotechnology, Immunology,... more Dr. Veerula (Dr. V) is a diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology, a Fellow of the American Academy of... more How can I remove my pimple marks fast?One of the best home-made scrubs to brighten skin on the whole and remove pimple marks is to use a mix of gram flour (besan), turmeric powder, lime juice, milk and water, whipped into a paste. Apply this all over your face for 30 minutes and wash off.
How remove pimples dark spots naturally fast?Applying a pack with lemon juice will benefit anyone with oily acne-prone skin and it will fade away dark spots quickly. Tip: Make a face mask of one tablespoon honey and one tablespoon lemon juice. Leave it on for 15 minutes and then rinse it off.
How can I remove marks on my face at home?Baking soda. Mix distilled water — a little at time — into 2 tablespoons of baking soda until it forms a paste.. Wet your scar with distilled water and then apply the paste to the wet scar.. Hold the paste in place with a warm compress for 15 minutes.. Rinse the area and repeat daily.. How can I remove pimple scars?What's the best treatment for acne scars?. Home skin care. Using sunscreen can help limit the contrast between unscarred skin and a scar. ... . Soft tissue fillers. ... . Steroid injection. ... . Laser resurfacing. ... . Other energy-based procedures. ... . Dermabrasion. ... . Chemical peel. ... . Skin needling.. |