I recently went through my second laparoscopic surgery to remove stage IV endometriosis, and as a result, I now have some pretty noticeable (albeit small) scars on my abdomen. I decided I didn’t want a constant reminder on my tummy of all the pain I’ve had to endure over the last 6+ years. I scoured the internet and asked my friends on social media what worked best for them and now I want to share that knowledge with everyone else. Whether your scars are from burns, accidents or surgery, here are some non-toxic options that can help fade them or even make them completely disappear!
BIG THANK YOU to everyone who sent suggestions!
Before I begin, I want to point out that pure Vitamin E oil was the most highly recommended option for scar healing. However, upon further research, this assertion seems to be mostly anecdotal. In fact, according to one study, pure Vitamin E applied topically actually impaired healing and 1/3 of people who used it developed contact dermatitis. Vitamin E is, in fact, rich in antioxidants and helps to fight free radicals as well as promotes healing, but may be more effective when combined/diluted with other ingredients.
Steri-Strips/Scar Away Strips- This should be step one of your scar recovery. Once the incisions have mostly healed, and your surgeon gives you the go ahead, use these silicone based strips on top of your incisions to promote additional healing and to keep incisions from re-opening. Once the incisions are fully closed and no longer scabbing/bleeding, etc. You can begin using ointments/balms/oils/creams.
Derma-E scar gel- $19.95 Gel made with active botanical ingredients. Allantoin and pantheon help to break down inflamed scar tissue and help to encourage healthy cell growth.
Nuvsio Mineral Enriched Balm Concentrate- $48 (Get 20% off with my code LOVEALICE) A special and potent blend of botanicals, minerals and a vitamin E complex designed to decrease inflammation, strengthen and protect the natural skin barrier and promote cell renewal.
Earth Mama Scar Balm- $24.99 Formulated by a nurse and herbalist with organic oils. Specifically designed for C-section scars, but works well for all scars and stretch marks
Cellfood Oxygen Gel- $29.95 This oxygenating gel is blended with Highest-Quality Aloe Vera and Lavender Blossom Extract. “Feeds” the skin on a cellular level. It is actually marketed as an anti-aging product, but helps to restore damaged skin as well and I’ve been told is great for preventing keloid (raised) scars.
Celsus Bio Intelligence Scar Cream- $19.99 Cream formulated with Tamanu, Gotu Kola, Helichrysum, MSM, CoQ10, etc. Can be used on the face or body for both new and old scars
Wild Thera Scar Balm- $19.99 Concentrated herbal balm formulated with olive oil, beeswax, almond oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil and 18 other herbal ingredients. Particularly great for C-section scars and stretch marks.
Rosehip Oil (Pai)-$44 High in Omegas 3,6, 7 and 9. Contains natural vitamin E. 99% organic ingredients. Excellent for anti-aging, reparative skin treatment for the face as well as scar treatment.
Apple Cider Vinegar- $10 Apple cider vinegar can be quite effective at fading scars but, because it is quite acidic, it should always be diluted before applied topically. 3:1 parts water to apple cider vinegar is a good ratio in order to avoid chemical burns from the acidity of undiluted apple cider vinegar. Use with caution
Frankincense oil- $10-$90 (depending on source) Known as the King of oils. When used with a carrier oil like almond or liquid coconut oil, frankincense promotes healing, regeneration of skin cells and slows down the aging process. It works particularly well in decreasing the appearance of scars and stretch marks.
Wheat Germ Oil (Standard Process)- $13 Wheat Germ oil is high in Vitamin D, E, K, as well as Omegas 3 and 6. It keeps the skin well lubricated while regenerating healthy tissue. *Those with a wheat or gluten allergy or sensitivity should avoid using wheat-germ oil* Note: This oil must be stored in the fridge or it will go bad quickly! Can also be used in capsule form. Simply puncture the capsule with a needle to extract the oil.
Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanic Serum- $185 Vintner’s Daughter serum is my favorite facial serum and is made with 22 nutrient dense ingredients which include powerhouses like frankincense, rosehip, sea buckthorn and lavender, so it seemed plausible to me that it might help with scar healing. When I reached out to the brand to inquire, they told me: “Active Botanical Serum is incredible for healing and we have seen a lot of people have success with this when it comes to scars.”
Unrefined Virgin Coconut oil- $9- $25 Coconut oil is very moisturizing, which is integral for the healing of new scars. It has also been shown to inhibit keloid skin formation. Apply 2-3 times a day for best results (just be careful of staining your clothes!)
Egyptian Magic- $26-$39 This celebrity favorite product formulated with olive oil, honey, propolis, beeswax and bee pollen has many uses, one of them being fading new scars. The company does not recommend this product for old scars, however.
Aloe Vera Gel- $19.95 Whether you buy an aloe vera leaf and extract the gel directly from the plant itself, or you buy it bottled from a health food store, aloe vera is one plant that has time and time again been proven to be one of the most beneficial and healing plants of all. It works by strengthening the collagen structure of the wound and protecting the moisture barrier. Note: Aloe Vera should not be used on open wounds
Korean Scrub Towel- $9 Exfoliation is key to healing scars because it promotes cell turnover and blood flow to the area, which will help to fade your scars much faster. Exfoliate up to 2-3 times a week for best results.
Have you had luck treating scars with other products not mentioned on this list? Leave a comment below!