Aloe Vera For Acne Scars: Miracle Cure Or Old Wives Tale

What are the acne scars?

Acne is a common skin condition that affects many. It occurs when oil, dead skin cells, and other pollutants clog the skin pores that contain hair follicles. Common in teenagers and youngsters, acne leads to other skin issues like blackheads, pimples, large pores, and acne scars. The term “scar” does not refer to the red marks seen on the skin when acne heals, as these marks usually fade away with time. Acne scars are depressed (atrophic) or raised (hypertrophic) lesions at the site of old acne lesions.

In severe acne, large pus-filled bumps are formed on the skin. These pus-filled spaces/cysts destroy skin tissue and when these cysts eventually heal, they leave behind a scar. While there are several home remedies claiming to address acne scars, Aloe Vera is considered to be one of the most effective elixirs for acne treatment.

How can aloe vera reduce scar formation?

Aloe vera for acne scars has been in use for thousands of years. Also, experimental studies have shown that this organic plant has strong anti-inflammatory properties and characteristics that help combat acne breakouts.

For instance, aloe vera contains enzymes, amino acids, various vitamins, minerals, and other compounds which are anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory. The unique blend and balance of these effective agents is known to boost the skin’s immunity, increase collagen, reduce inflammation, heal wounds, promote elastic production, delay wrinkle formation, and treat other acne issues. The active antibacterial agents found in aloe vera treat acne issues by removing bacteria from the skin, while reducing the risk of spots/scars. 

In short aloe vera is:

• Antibacterial
• An antioxidant
• Anti-inflammatory

A person suffering from acne breakouts can use aloe vera gel to treat acne scars instead of chemical-rich cleansers. Treating acne at the right time can help prevent scar formation.

H2- How to use aloe vera for acne scars?

One can use aloe vera in several forms such as gel, drinks, supplements, creams, etc. However, oral intake of aloe vera is less effective in addressing acne scars compared to its topical forms. You can apply aloe vera in the following manner: 

• Wash your face using a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water.
• Dry your face with a clean, soft towel.
• Apply a thin layer of aloe vera to the entire face or just to the affected area. You can use aloe vera in its natural form or use an aloe vera gel or cream.
• Leave the paste/preparation on for a couple of minutes and let it dry naturally.
• Follow it up with your usual skincare routine.
• Use aloe vera, twice a day for 1-2 weeks for noticeable results.
• To treat your acne scars, apply aloe vera to the affected area and leave it overnight. Wash it off in the morning to soothe irritation and redness.

While aloe vera is an effective acne scar treatment on its own, you can experience better outcomes when using it in  tandem with other products like honey, lemon, cinnamon, sugar, tea tree, retinol, etc. (depending on one’s skin type, one can mix suitable products with aloe vera to form a facemask/paste.)

Aloe vera is not for all kinds of acne scars:

Although aloe vera is an effective acne scar treatment, it is not suitable for all kinds of skin. Also, it seems to be less effective in treating acne scars caused by other issues rather than inflammation.  So far, research says that aloe does not seem to be any more effective than just reducing redness and inflammation.

It obviously means aloe can be useful in treating inflammatory acne scars only. However, acne is not caused by inflammation alone. The buildup of dead skin cells, hormones, genetics, overactive oil glands, are some of the other factors that can cause acne and the ensuing scar development. All this can lead to inflammatory acne if not treated at right time.

Sadly, aloe vera does not seem to do anything for acne scars caused due to these factors. Also, the formation of acne starts as a blocked pore, and aloe vera does nothing to prevent the clogging of skin pores. 

Also, aloe vera is less effective in reducing hyperpigmentation and cannot treat pitted acne scars. The only way to deal with depressed acne scars is laser treatment, dermal fillers, subcision, and other acne scar surgeries. The best place to get rid of such acne issues is at a dermatologist’s clinic like Clearskin.

Consult a doctor:

When we consume medicines or use a topical preparation on our skin, there is a significant risk of side effects. .  Aloe vera is no exception. It may not work for everyone. Also, as aloe vera is a natural acne scar treatment, there are no proven guidelines about its use and dosage. Its use varies as per one’s skin type and medical condition. 

Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor if you are facing acne breakouts. The doctor will first examine your skin and then advise how to use aloe vera, along with other products, for better results.  Also, the doctor can confirm if there will be any adverse effects of a medicine. 

Consult a doctor at the first sign of an acne breakout or any other skin condition. Go safe! After all, experimenting with your face is not a good idea. 

Why Choose Clearskin?

If you are thinking of using aloe vera to address acne scars but are not sure how to do it or where to start, visit Clearskin now. It is one of the most trusted hair and skincare clinics in India. The doctors at Clearskin are board-certified hair and skin specialists, who have vast experience in treating different kinds of skin conditions.  The clinic has world-class FDA approved equipment to perform procedures. They will understand your skin issues through a comprehensive investigation of all problems, and come up with a tailored treatment plan to eliminate the causes. 

What are you waiting for? Book an appointment now!