Can you use aloe vera for scars? Find the answers!

You might want to add another benefit to aloe vera’s already long list

aloe vera for scars
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Aloe vera is already widely known for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory effects that leaves the skin beautiful and nourished. But did you know you can also use aloe vera for scars?

It’s impossible to eliminate a scar fully formed without an invasive procedure, but the juices of this succulent plant can, nevertheless, prompt a faster and more efficient cicatrization and help reduce fresh scar tissue.

Is aloe vera good for scars

Researchers made an experiment with rats in 2016 to assess the effects of a topical application of aloe vera over wound healing and modeling. The results show that this plant reduces the inflammation and contracted the scar tissue, reducing its size and visibility.

A different research in 2015 had already established its potential for reducing the average healing time and support the scarring tissue by increasing the production of collagen and penetrating easily into the deeper layers of the skin.

How to use it aloe vera for scars

If you have the plant in your home, you can simply cut a leaf and apply its gel directly over the wound or scar 3 to 4 times a day.

As an alternative, you can also purchase one of the many OTC creams available on the market that contain or are based aloe vera gel. The standard application would still be 3 or 4 times a day unless a different indication is on the label or your doctor recommends a different application.

If you decide to buy a cream, make sure it doesn’t contain any ingredient potentially irritant as perfume, for instance.

Before and after

Acne marks are the best example of how effective aloe vera for scars can be. Bear in mind that in this case, the plant actually slows down the healing process.

This means it will take longer for results to be visible, but in the meanwhile, collagen is being boosted to restore skin to its normal condition instead of creating scarring tissue.

Check two examples of this effect below.

Are there other natural remedies to remove or reduce scars?

You won’t find any other natural remedy with the same potential as aloe vera for scars. However, that is not to say that there aren’t other alternatives that can produce results, just that they are still to be researched in more detail.

For instance, according to a study from 2016, the Manuka honey‘s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties work wonders to improve wound healing. Nevertheless, its effect over scars is barely noticeable.

If you want to strengthen the effect of aloe vera, you can make your own home remedies for scars and mix this plant with other ingredients known to replenish the skin and for their antiseptic or anti-inflammatory properties.

These include tea tree oil, lemon, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, onion paste, Indian gooseberry and honey.

Are there more benefits to aloe vera?

The question is not so much if there are more benefits, but rather where to start. Among the many advantages of using this plant, these are the ones that stand out: