Though medical professionals may be skeptical about the success rates of such creams[1] X Research source , many people have found products like Mederma and Vita-K to be effective. Mederma works well for stretch marks and other types of scarring, if it is systematically applied 3 to 4 times a day, for up to six months. It works by softening and smoothing the scars, on the legs or any other area of the body.
The silicone sheets have been proven effective in treating scars, but it will take time and patience to achieve noticeable results. The sheets must be worn over the scar every day, for 12 hours a day, over a 2 to 3 month period. [3] X Research source
Be aware that hydroquinone-based creams, though effective, have been banned in the European Union as they are thought to contain carcinogenic properties and heighten the risk of skin cancer. [4] X Research source Hydroquinone products are still available over-the-counter in the US, in concentrations up to 2%. Anything higher than that requires a prescription.
You can take vitamin E capsules orally or you can apply the oil topically by bursting a capsule with a pin and applying the oil to the affected area. [5] X Research source You may want to test the vitamin E oil on a small patch of skin first, before you apply it to any large areas of skin, as vitamin E oil may cause an allergic reaction in some people, resulting in contact dermatitis. [6] X Research source Be careful not to exceed the daily recommended dose of vitamin E oil, whether you’re applying it topically or taking it orally.
You should massage the cocoa butter into the skin using circular motions, making sure that it is almost completely absorbed by the skin. Be aware that cocoa butter will be most effective on newer scars than older scars, though you should still see an improvement either way.
If you do decide to try lemon juice on your scars, cut a small slice of lemon and squeeze the juice directly onto your scars. Leave the lemon juice on overnight or for several hours. Do not apply fresh juice more than once a day. If you feel the pure lemon juice is too strong, you can dilute it with water before applying or mix it with some blended cucumber to limit the harshness of the treatment.
To apply, break a leaf from an aloe vera plant and squeeze the clear, gel-like sap directly onto the scarred skin. Massage the sap into the skin using small circular motions. Aloe vera is very gentle on the skin, so you can reapply the sap up to four times a day. If you cannot get your hands on an aloe vera plant (though they should be available at most plant nurseries) there are many creams and lotions available which contain aloe vera extract, that may be equally effective.
Apply a teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil to the affected area and massage using small circular motions until the oil is absorbed. You can also use the olive oil as an exfoliating scrub by mixing it with a teaspoon of baking soda, which you can massage into the scars before rinsing off with warm water. You can increase the effectiveness of the olive oil treatment by blending it with another oil. Combine two parts olive oil with one part rosehip, chamomile or calendula oil and apply this blend to the scars. The added oils will increase the soothing properties of the olive oil.
The remaining cucumber paste will keep covered in the fridge for several days, and you should continue to apply it to the affected area each night. You can increase the effectiveness of this treatment by mixing the cucumber paste with some of the aforementioned products, such as lemon juice, olive oil or aloe vera.
Keloid scars: these are large, growth-like scars that result from a wound that heals itself too aggressively. Keloid scars may grow larger over time and sometimes even return after treatment. They are particularly common in people with darker skin tones. [10] X Expert Source R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPHBoard Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 14 May 2021. Hypertrophic scars: these are raised scars which are initially red or pink. They will fade on their own over time. These scars may be the result of burns or surgery and can be itchy. Atrophic scars: these scars are the deep pits that are left behind after severe acne or chicken pox. Stretch marks: these are thin, reddish-purple scars which happen because of rapid weight gain or loss. They are particularly common in pregnant women. Over time, these scars will fade and become white-ish. Contracture scars: these scars are usually caused by severe burns and may cover a large area of skin. These scars may feel tight, especially if they are around the joints, and can potentially limit body movement. Dark spots: these types of marks are not actually scars, but a type of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, usually caused by mosquito or other insect bites.
Avoid exfoliating over fresh scars or healing wounds. Aggressive scrubbing can slow the healing process, or even make fresh scars worse.
If you have a larger scar – or a scar in a location that is frequently exposed to the sun – you may need to regularly apply sunscreen for up to a year while paying close attention to the scar’s healing progress.
Dermabrasion on the legs is usually only recommend for dark spots or indented scars caused by mosquito bites, etc. Keloid or hypertrophic scars (raised scars) should not be treated with dermabrasion. Make an appointment with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can analyse your scarring and decide whether you are a good candidate for dermabrasion. Be aware that these kinds of aesthetic procedures are not usually covered by insurance.
Depending on the scarring, you may need to go through several chemical peel procedures before you see a noticeable difference in the appearance of your skin. Be aware the new skin that is exposed after a chemical peel will be particularly sensitive and you will need to protect it by avoiding sun exposure and using a sunscreen with a high SPF for several weeks.
Laser treatment should only be received at a reputable clinic with a well-trained staff, as lasers can be dangerous if used incorrectly. You may need to return to the clinic for a series of treatments to fully remove the scar. The downside of this option is that laser treatment can be expensive, ranging from $1000 to $5000, depending on the size and depth of the scar.
Steroid treatment is a process rather than a once-off procedure, and you will need to return to the clinic every two to three weeks to receive another injection. This treatment has a high rate of success, but is relatively costly and may cause skin discoloration in darker skinned patients. Consult with a cosmetic surgeon to decide if this treatment is best for you. [16] X Research source
Each collagen injection costs approximately $250, so this going down this route for scar treatment can be costly. You will need to have a skin test done before you receive any collagen injections, to ensure that you will not have an allergic reaction to the treatment.
