Acne affects an estimated 90% of adolescents. Severely inflamed acne can leave behind scars. Acne scars cause a lot of psychological distress, especially in adolescents. But it is important to remember that scar formation is normal.
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.
Acne Scars Vs. Pimple Marks
Acne 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.
Home Remedies That May Help Lighten Acne Scars And Pimple Marks
1. Orange Peel Powder
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.
You Will Need
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon orange peel powder
What You Have To Do
- Mix both the honey and orange peel powder to make a thick paste.
- Apply the paste to the areas with acne and pimple scars.
- Wash it off after it dries.
How Often You Should Do This
Do this 3-4 times a week.
2. Coconut Oil
A research conducted to study the potential benefits of plant oils on skin shows that coconut oil possesses antibacterial properties that may help reduce acne.
You Will Need
- 1 teaspoon of coconut oil (VCO)
What You Have To Do
- Warm the virgin coconut oil by rubbing it between your palms.
- Dab it on the acne scars and leave it on until the next morning.
How Often You Should Do This
Do 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
Tea tree oil possesses can reduce acne lesions and scaling. 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
- 2-3 drops of tea tree essential oil
- A carrier oil (sweet almond oil or jojoba oil)
What You Have To Do
- Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil of your choice.
- Apply this mixture to the scars.
- Leave it on for an hour before washing it off.
How Often You Should Do This
Repeat 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 Gel
A mixture of aloe vera, tea tree oil, and propolis has also been found to reduce acne scars and pimple marks.
Aloe vera can reduce acne scars by reducing hyperpigmentation and acting as an immunity booster and anti-inflammatory agent.
You Will Need
- 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel
What You Have To Do
- Extract a tablespoon of gel from aloe vera leaves.
- Apply it to the scars and blemishes.
- Leave it on overnight.
How Often You Should Do This
You can do this every night before going to bed.
5. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice contains vitamin C that exhibits antipigmentary properties. Thus, it may fade acne scars, blemishes and pimple marks over time.
You Will Need
- ½ lemon
- Cotton pad
What You Have To Do
- Squeeze out the juice of half a lemon and dab a cotton pad into the juice.
- Apply it to the affected areas.
- Rinse it off thoroughly after 10 minutes.
How Often You Should Do This
You can do this 3-4 times a week.
Read Also: 10 Simple Home Remedies To Get Beautiful Skin Naturally