Lotion to Remove Scars

The skin is an organ that shields the body from infection.. Scars are a normal part of the healing process that develop when the skin mends wounds caused by acne, disease, accidents or surgical incisions. Scars often appear thick and red at the onset and slowly fade over time, reports the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) 1. Scar creams, lotions and gels can help fade the appearance of scars, notes the AAD.

Scar Science

While scars will never completely disappear, they can fade considerably, reports Penn State's Hershey Medical Center 5. The severity, size and direction of the wound along with your age, sex, skin type and genetic make-up all play a role in how much a scar improves. Deeper wounds typically take longer to heal and are more apt to leave a detectable scar, notes the American Academy of Dermatology of AAD 1. Some scars can heal quite well on their own over several months.

Lotions and Potions

Treatment for an Old Scar Itch

Learn More

Scar lotions may modestly flatten raised acne scars, soften the appearance of shallow, saucer-shaped acne scars and improve skin discoloration. Over-the-counter and prescription creams, ointments, lotions and gels may also help to fade away scars that are caused from surgical incisions or other injuries to the skin, reports the Cleveland Clinic 2.

Essential Ingredients

Products that contain vitamin C, retinol and glycolic acid may help minor acne scars become less apparent, according to the AAD. These ingredients stimulate collagen production, which helps skin to look plump and firm. Skin lightening creams or lotions may help even out discoloration once acne has cleared. Creams and gels that contain allium cepa or onion, such as:

• Mederma
  
• may help to soften
  
• smooth scars from surgery
  
• injury
  
• burns as well as acne

Scar Removal Timeline

How to Treat Scars After Surgery

Learn More

Certain lotions or creams may help to diminish the appearance of scars. Scar creams, lotions and gels must be use continuously for maximum effectiveness, notes the AAD. Products such as Mederma are to be massaged into the scar three to four times per day for two to six months, depending on the age of the scar.

Professional Treatment Options

Additional treatment options are available if you are dissatisfied with the results of scar lotions and gels. Treatment options include laser therapy, dermabrasion, surgery and injectable fillers such as collagen or fat notes, the CNN Health website. Protecting scars from the sun by applying an sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher can help minimize their appearance.