Scars are a natural part of life. Whether they be inflicted from injury or the lasting impression of acne, most people will have to deal with scarring. Scars result from an over-production of collagen at the wound site and go through several changes as time elapses. Thankfully, there are plenty of easy and cost-effective ways in which you can minimise their appearance.
Bio oil (60ml $15): Although it can never completely remove scars, the specialist skincare oil helps improve their appearance. Bio‑Oil should be massaged in a circular motion into the scar, twice daily, for a minimum of 3 months. It should only be applied once the wound has healed, and should not be used on broken skin.
Aloe Vera: The aloe vera plant is renowned for its healing, soothing and rejuvenative properties, which can assist the skin to repair itself and lessen irritation. Aloe vera gel provides moisture to the skin and increases the production of collagen to promote healing.
Help Me by Philosophy ($65): This cream is ideal for congested and clogged pores, acting as a deep cleansing facial during sleep time. The night-time retinol treatment targets large pores, discoloration and fine lines. Micro-sponge technology holds the retinol content in a stable form and releases it gradually to reduce irritation. A small amount should be applied to dry skin before bedtime as part of the nightly skin routine.
Mario Badescu Healing Cream($27): Designed to assist healing of irritated acne-prone skin, the cream soothes and minimises redness. It is oil-free with a sulphur base to prevent scarring. To use, apply a small amount to clean, dry skin.
Kiehls Acne Blemish Control Daily Skin-Clearing Treatment ($48): This treatment is perfect for minimising the appearance of acne, blemishes, whiteheads and acne scars. Designed to deliver clearer skin, the treatment contains Dioic, Salicylic and Lip Hydroxu acids. A thin layer should be applied to clean, dry skin one to three times daily. Excessive drying of the skin may occur, so it is important to slowly build use of the cream over time to allow the skin to normalise to the product.
Steri Strips (Tape): Gentle pressure on the scar has been shown to minimise its appearance. Medical tape can be put over the scar to hold it in place and stretch the skin.
Gentle massage: To reduce the appearance of scars, you should gently massage the area affected in circular motions. The scar will fade with gentle pressure as you stretch the skin.
Scars can gradually fade with time, and without a doubt will improve in appearance with the application of these treatments.
Images courtesy of Mecca Cosmetica and Priceline
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