Scarring is often a permanent feature of skin recovery from conditions like acne or surgery. Texture changes from scars may require medical help, but at-home treatments are an option for many types. Dermatologists offer insights on over-the-counter treatments for fading scars.
Top Over-the-Counter Treatments
Products recommended by dermatologists can prevent scars from becoming noticeable or reduce existing ones. Consulting with a dermatologist is advised for severe cases.
Best Serum for Acne Scars
What to know: This serum, tested by editors, can lighten scars and dark spots in about two months. It contains tranexamic acid, kojic acid, azelaic acid, and niacinamide, which help fade and soothe skin. However, it has a distinct sulfur-like smell. Consistent use is key for noticeable results, as experienced by an NBC Select reporter.
Best Overall Scar Gel
What to know: This botanical extract-based gel effectively flattens raised scars and reduces discomfort. The brand recommends application once a wound closes and continued use for optimal results. It’s beneficial for scars from various causes, including acne and surgery.
Best Overall Scar Sheets
What to know: Silicone sheets by ScarAway offer protection and hydration, promoting better healing. The sheets mimic the skin barrier, flattening and softening scars, and are water-resistant for daily wear.
Best for Surgical Scars
What to know: Kelo-Cote’s silicone gel spreads twice daily, reducing redness and softening raised scars. The gel dries quickly without a sticky residue, suitable for post-surgery care.
Best SPF Scar Gel
What to know: Combines patented technology with SPF 30 to reduce scars’ appearance while providing sun protection. Particularly important as sun exposure can worsen scar visibility.
Best Overall Scar Oil
What to know: Bio-Oil includes calming chamomile and calendula plant extracts, with vitamins A and E to maintain hydration and minimize redness.
Best Liquid Scar Sheet
What to know: A brush-on silicone sheet that forms a barrier over new wounds or old scars. Applied twice daily, it protects while hydrating the area.
Best Budget-Friendly Ointment
What to know: Vaseline Healing Jelly prevents scabs and softens scar tissue. It’s suitable for sensitive skin, carrying the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance.
Selecting the Best Scar Treatments
Over-the-counter options can’t significantly flatten raised scars. They instead prevent scar formation or treat redness and discoloration.
- Silicone: Effective for minimizing scars by maintaining hydration and collagen regulation.
- Retinoids: Prescription-strength treatments for hyperpigmentation and skin texture improvements.
- Vitamin C: Reduces redness and mild discoloration.
- Hydroquinone: Requires prescription, helps fade dark spots.
Understanding Scar Types
Different scars include atrophic, hypertrophic, and keloid. Dermatologists explain that scar type varies by injury and body healing response.
Atrophic Scars
These are indented scars like those seen in acne cases. They form due to collagen loss during healing, resulting in thin skin.
Hypertrophic Scars
Raised scars from excessive collagen production. They remain within the injury zone.
Keloid Scars
These grow beyond the injury area, can become darker with sun exposure, and are difficult to treat.
Treating Scars at Home
While scars remain permanent, treatments can lessen their appearance. Proper wound care and sun protection are basics for scar management.
Several over-the-counter options can help:
- Silicone and Hydrocolloids reduce scar formation by keeping the area moist and protected.
- Retinoids enhance collagen production, improving minor scarring and discoloration.
- Vitamin C is useful for fading discolorations in scars.
- Chemical Exfoliants can improve minor textural changes and skin tone.
Professional Treatments for Scars
In-office procedures offer solutions for both raised and depressed scars, using lasers, microneedling, or fillers.
Atrophic Scar Treatments
Procedures like laser resurfacing and microneedling encourage new collagen, improving scar appearance. Fillers can also help indented scars, while more severe ice pick scars require specific treatments.
Hypertrophic and Keloid Treatments
Lasers, combined with steroid injections or Botox, can help soften and improve raised scars.
Hyperpigmentation Treatments
Lasers and lightening prescriptions, such as hydroquinone, fade color changes left by scars. Chemical peels can enhance skin turnover for better texture and tone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Scars form from the natural healing process and may vary in appearance. While some scars fade over time with treatment, others can be persistent. Effective treatments require time, with results visible after weeks or months.
Persistent scars like keloids present treatment challenges, often returning after intervention. Areas of high movement may develop larger scars due to stretching during healing.
Our dermatology experts include certified professionals with significant experience.
Dr. Joshua Zeichner – Dermatology expert
Dr. Amy McMichael – Dermatology and skin care specialist
Dr. Marisa Garshick – Assistant professor at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center
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