If you’re thinking about buying an over-the-counter home treatment for scar removal, research the product first.

Do not expose your skin to the sun while you have lemon juice on it. The lemon juice makes your skin more sensitive to the sun.

Aloe vera may improve the appearance and characteristics of scars. [5] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source It’s an anti-inflammatory herb which helps increase the elasticity of the new skin tissue.

Or, you could try mixing 2 to 3 drops of lavender oil or St John’s wort oil into 2 tablespoons of castor oil for a healing massage oil. St. John’s wort oil is often used to heal c-section scars. [8] X Research source Samadi, S. , Khadivzadeh, T. , Emami, A. , Moosavi, N. S. , Tafaghodi, M. , & Behnam, H. R. (2010). The effect of Hypericum perforatum on the wound healing and scar of cesarean. Journal Of Alternative And Complementary Medicine (New York, N. Y. ), 16(1), 113-117.

Green tea may minimize scarring because it contains antioxidants that help your skin heal. [9] X Research source

R. arnebiae is also known as Zi Cao and lithospermum erythrorhizon. In TCM, it’s characterized as a heat and toxin releaser. Studies show that it can reduce the numbers and functions of scar-forming cells.

Your primary care physician may need to refer you to a dermatologist in order for your insurance to cover the exam. Or, your doctor may simply recommend dermatologists who specialize in cystic acne.

Your skin will be red and swollen after the treatment. The swelling should go down within 2 or 3 weeks.

If you had a deep peel, the dermatologist will show you how to change your surgical bandages after the procedure. If you had a moderate peel, you’ll probably need to apply cool compresses and lotion.

Your dermatologist may also use steroid injections for scars that are hyper-pigmented or darker than surrounding skin.

Less intensive lasers and lights can be used to leave your skin intact while stimulating the collagen underneath your skin. [15] X Research source

Be aware that many insurance policies may not cover scar removal because it is considered to be cosmetic surgery unless the scar is a physical impairment. Check with your insurance carrier to find out what your policy covers.

Green concealer to cover up reddish acne scars. Yellow concealer to even out blemish areas caused by scars. Pink concealer to balance out purple or dark blemish areas.

You can use your finger to apply the concealer. Just take care not to apply to much or it may actually draw attention to your scar.

Take care when applying the foundation directly over the scar to avoid rubbing away the concealer.

Remember to wash off your makeup every night. This is a habit that will keep your skin healthy and prevent future acne breakouts.

A dermatologist can prescribe medications for acne or give you cortisone injections. These injections reduce inflammation and shrink pimples. According to research, treating acne during the inflammation stage can prevent scarring. [21] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Popping your pimples spreads the bacteria causing your acne to other pores on your skin. This can make your breakout worse.

If you can, choose a product that also contains glycolic acid. Studies show that a combination of retinoic acid and glycolic acid is more effective than retinoic acid on its own.

Smoking will also age your skin more quickly and cause wrinkles. [25] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source To prevent dehydration and damage skin, you should also cut back on how much alcohol you drink.