How to Get Rid of Acne Scars
By Anamika, age 14, Ohio
Acne is a pain, but what may come afterward is even worse. How many times have you ever realized that after the acne, a little mark has been left behind? Well, that mark is usually an acne scar.Acne scars are very difficult to get rid of, but here are some natural remedies that may help fade, if not completely get rid of, your troublesome acne scars.
Vitamin E Cream
Nature's Bounty puts out a good one. This remedy has dual purposes: after fading that scar, you can also use it as an quality, scent-free moisturizer. Just dab a heavy layer on the scar at nighttime, and within a month or so (depending on the severity and age of the scar) it should be completely gone.
I bought it at a local supermarket for 5 dollars.
Ice Cubes and Astringent
Take an ice cube, wrap it in some cotton (or a paper towel), dab some quality astringent on it, then apply the cube to your scar until it's melted. The nice thing about this one is, if you've got a bit of acne on top of the scar, it will get rid of that too. The astringent dries up the acne, and the astringent-ice combo helps to take some pigment out of the scar.
Neutrogena has a nice Oil-Reducing astringent for about five dollars.
Cucumbers and Tomatoes
Overnight, just place a tomato or cucumber (or their juice) on top of the scar. It should greatly reduce the appearance of the scar over a period of time.
Apple Cider Vinegar
This one's tricky, but I'm covering it because the Internet lists it as a top remedy. You have to remember that it is, after all, an acid. Depending on your skin type, it could help or hurt it. Just apply a small amount on the scar, leave for about 10 to 15 minutes, then wash off. It could dry out your skin, so make sure you have a good lotion at the ready to moisturize. Don't overdo this one - it could even worsen the scar, so be careful.
Honey
Tasty and moisturizing! Honey is great for your skin - just look at all the face masks with it for proof. The only problem here it that is may be quite runny and sticky. Tough it out though! It really works. Just dab some on the scar, and leave it on for as long as you can stand. You may want to put a tissue on it to keep it from running.
Since these are all natural remedies, don't be afraid to try them - for most people they don't really have any side effects*! I know how annoying those acne scars can be, and I hope that you'll be able to fade them and gain a renewed confidence.
* Even so, reactions differ from person to person. Make sure you are not allergic to the ingredients before you try them. If you're not sure, test the substance on a small stretch of skin on your arm, and wait to see if any unfavorable reaction occurs. If acne is an ongoing concern, Sweet Designs Magazine recommends that you talk to your parents and consult with a dermatologist.