Home » Beauty

The Ultimate Guide to Getting Rid of Scars—Expert Solutions & Science-Backed Tips

Explore medical, cosmetic, and at-home techniques to reduce and prevent scars, with expert advice and science-backed methods for every skin type.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 30, 2025

Explore medical, cosmetic, and at-home techniques to reduce and prevent scars, with expert advice and science-backed methods for every skin type.

How to Get Rid of a Scar: The Definitive 2025 Guide

Scars are the lasting reminders that our skin carries from injuries, surgery, or inflammatory breakouts like acne. While many fade naturally, some scars can be stubborn, affecting not just appearance, but also confidence. The good news: advances in dermatology and skin care have produced effective strategies for fading, minimizing, and even preventing scars—whether they are new, old, raised, indented, or discolored. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting rid of scars, from professional procedures to proven home remedies, with expert-backed advice at every step.

Understanding Scars: What Really Happens to Your Skin?

Before tackling how to get rid of scars, let’s start by understanding what a scar is. Scars form as your body’s natural response to skin injury. During the healing process, your body rapidly creates new collagen fibers to close the wound, but these fibers are arranged differently than in healthy skin—leading to the visible mark we call a scar.
Types of scars include:

Atrophic scars – Depressed or pitted scars, common after acne (e.g., ice pick and boxcar scars).
Hypertrophic scars – Raised, firm scars that stay within the wound boundary.
Keloid scars – Overgrown, thick raised scars that spread beyond the original injury.
Contracture scars – Scars that cause skin tightness, usually after burns.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) – Not a true scar, but a dark mark left after a wound heals; common in acne-prone skin.

Each type requires a specific treatment approach, so identifying your scar type is crucial before choosing a solution.

The Golden Rule: Start Scar Treatment Early, But Don’t Rush

Timing matters when it comes to scar care. The skin’s healing phase typically lasts 3–6 months post-injury. During this time, the appearance of a scar can change dramatically: redness fades, elevation smooths out, and overall visibility lessens.

To optimize natural healing, keep fresh wounds clean, moist, and protected. Petroleum jelly and a simple non-stick bandage can help.
Always use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) on scars to prevent darkening and pigmentation, especially for skin of color.

Be patient: Some scars can fade on their own over 1–2 years. If after several months the scar is still visible and bothersome, consult a dermatologist for customized advice.

Professional Treatments: Tried-and-True Ways Dermatologists Fade Scars

If you want faster or more dramatic improvement, dermatologists offer leading-edge solutions. The ideal option depends on scar type, location, size, and your skin tone or sensitivity.

1. Laser Therapy

Laser treatments are highly effective at treating many scar types:

Fractional ablative lasers remove columns of scar tissue, stimulating new collagen and smoother skin.
Non-ablative lasers (like Fraxel or PicoSure) target pigment and boost collagen with fewer side effects, suitable for lighter or darker skin tones.
Pulsed dye (PDL) or intense pulsed light (IPL) lasers break down redness and excess blood vessels in raised or red scars.

Best for: Indented (atrophic) scars, red or pigmented scars, some hypertrophic and keloid scars. Multiple sessions are usually needed, spaced weeks apart.

2. Microneedling

This device uses tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries, prompting the skin’s repair mechanism and promoting collagen formation. When paired with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), microneedling can accelerate scar remodeling and improve results further.

Best for: Acne scars (boxcar, rolling, mild ice pick), enlarged pores, fine lines. Typically, a series of 3–6 monthly sessions is recommended.

3. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels apply acids (like glycolic, salicylic, or trichloroacetic acid) to the skin, causing the top layer to peel off and new, healthier skin to form. Medium-depth and deep peels can significantly improve shallow to moderately deep scars.

Light peels: For superficial pigmentation and textural roughness (may be performed at home).
Medium to deep peels: More effective on deeper scars, but must be performed by a dermatologist due to potential risks.

Note: Not recommended for very deep or raised scars; at-home peels work mostly on pigment and fine surface irregularities.

4. Subcision

This procedure uses a fine needle to break up thick fibrous bands of scar tissue tethered beneath the skin (common in rolling and certain pitted scars). Subcision can be followed by dermal filler injections for immediate improvement in the skin’s surface.

Downtime is usually minimal, but bruising may occur. Best combined with other resurfacing treatments for maximum effect.

5. Surgical Scar Revision

For prominent or stubborn scars (especially single, localized ones), a dermatologist or plastic surgeon may excise the scar and stitch the skin for a smoother, finer outcome. This is often used for deep pockmarks or severe surgical/burn scars.

Note: There will be a new scar, but properly managed, it is usually less noticeable than the original.

6. Fillers

Hyaluronic acid or other injectable fillers can temporarily elevate indented scars, especially on the face. This non-permanent solution gives immediate results and can be used alongside subcision or microneedling for an optimal finish.

At-Home Scar Solutions: What Really Works?

While nothing beats professional treatments for dramatic scar reduction, there are science-backed at-home routines that can help fade milder scars—or boost results between dermatologist visits.

1. Topical Retinoids

Retinoids (like retinol or tretinoin) increase cell turnover, helping to smooth skin texture and fade dark marks. Prescription-strength formulas yield stronger results, but over-the-counter versions are helpful for maintenance.

Apply retinoids at night
Use sunscreen during the day—retinoids can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight

2. Silicone Gel Sheets & Gels

Silicone-based products are clinically proven to flatten, soften, and lighten both old and new scars. Apply daily for at least 12 weeks for best results. Silicone creates a favorable healing environment by retaining moisture and reducing collagen overgrowth.

3. Vitamin C Serums

Vitamin C stabilizes collagen, lightens hyperpigmentation, and protects against environmental damage. Use a stable, high-potency vitamin C serum in your morning routine.

4. Gentle Chemical Exfoliants

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHA) like glycolic and salicylic acid can help resurface rough skin and fade discoloration due to scars. Start with a low concentration a few times a week, and use sunscreen diligently to protect the newly revealed skin.

5. Daily Sun Protection

UV exposure can darken scars or make them more noticeable. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning, and reapply every 2 hours if outdoors for prolonged periods.

Natural Remedies: Caution vs. Science

Many home remedies circulate on the internet—lemon juice, coconut oil, baking soda—but most have little clinical support and can even irritate or worsen scars. Focus on dermatologist-recommended strategies, and consult your doctor before trying new products or DIY hacks on broken skin.

Table: Scar Types & Effective Treatments

Scar Type	Description	Best Treatments
Atrophic (e.g., acne scars)	Indented, pitted appearance	Laser, microneedling, subcision, fillers, medium/deep peels
Hypertrophic	Raised but within the wound area	Silicone gels/sheets, injections (steroids), lasers
Keloid	Raised, thick, grows beyond the wound	Steroid shots, lasers, surgery (with caution), silicone therapy
PIH (hyperpigmentation)	Flat, dark spots following inflammation	Sunscreen, vitamin C, retinoids, light peels, lasers

Myth-Busting: What Doesn’t Work for Scars

Toothpaste and lemon juice: Too harsh, can irritate skin and increase scarring risk.
Over-exfoliating: Causes micro-tears, worsens discoloration, delays healing.
Scratching or picking scabs: Increases inflammation, prolongs healing, and worsens scarring.
Bio-oil and cocoa butter: Popular, but not proven in rigorous clinical trials to significantly change established scars.

Preventing Scars: Your Proactive Roadmap

Prevention is always easier than treatment. Here’s how to give your skin the best chance at healing flawlessly:

Keep wounds or acne lesions clean and moist until fully healed.
Don’t pick, scratch, or pop pimples or scabs.
Apply petroleum jelly and a clean bandage to new injuries.
Always use sunscreen on healing wounds and scars.
See a dermatologist early for acne or persistent inflammation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Scar Treatment

Q: Can scars be removed completely?

A: While most treatments can significantly fade or improve scars, totally erasing a scar is rarely possible. Setting realistic expectations is key—many methods can dramatically blur, flatten, or lighten scars so they become much less noticeable.

Q: Which treatment is best for acne scars?

A: Combination approaches work best. Dermatologists often use microneedling, laser resurfacing, subcision, and fillers, tailored to the type and depth of acne scars. Chemical peels and topical retinoids also help, especially for mild cases.

Q: Are over-the-counter fading creams effective?

A: Some OTC products—particularly those with retinoids, silicone, or vitamin C—can help fade hyperpigmentation and flatten scars, but deeper or older scars often require professional intervention.

Q: How long do scar treatments take to work?

A: Improvement timelines vary: topical products take 8–12 weeks, while lasers or microneedling show noticeable results after 2–3 sessions. Consistency is vital, and patience pays off.

Q: Is it safe to try treatments at home?

A: Mild exfoliants, sunscreen, retinoids, and silicone gels are generally safe if used as directed. Avoid aggressive scrubs, acids, or unproven DIY hacks. For deep, raised, or stubborn scars, always seek medical advice first.

Expert Tips for Smoother, Healthier Skin

Hydrate and eat well: Healthy skin heals better—drink water and eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E.
Don’t ignore chronic inflammation: Manage eczema, acne, or allergies to reduce repeated scarring.
Consider your skin tone: Some lasers and peels are riskier for darker complexions—see a provider with experience treating your skin type.

Final Thoughts: Clear Skin is Possible

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to getting rid of scars, but today’s options are safer, faster, and more effective than ever. A combination of professional and at-home approaches—backed by medical guidance and realistic expectations—can dramatically improve your skin’s look and feel.
For persistent scars, consult with a board-certified dermatologist to create a personalized treatment plan. Remember: your scars are a part of your skin’s story, but with the right care, they don’t have to be the ending.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

Read full bio of medha deb