Did you know you can use Aloe Vera for acne scars? Save your skin from aggressive solutions and switch to a natural acne scar treatment instead. This post covers how to use aloe vera for acne scars, including two recipes for remedies you can make at home.

What Causes Acne Scars?

Acne scars are caused by the healing process of the skin after severe or persistent acne. Acne can penetrates deep into the skin, damaging the surrounding tissues, including the collagen and elastin fibers that provide support and structure to the skin.

The body’s natural response to this damage is to repair and rebuild the affected area, leading to the formation of scar tissue. There are different types of acne scars, including atrophic scars (depressed or pitted scars) and hypertrophic scars (raised scars).

The severity and type of acne scars can vary depending on factors such as the intensity of the acne, genetics, and individual skin characteristics. Also, picking, popping, or squeezing acne can increase the likelihood of scarring as it can further damage the skin and delay the healing process. Acne scars can also leave behind dark spots on the skin. 

Aloe Vera for Acne Scars vs. Traditional Treatment

Typical acne scar treatment includes laser therapy, chemical peels, or gels containing ingredients such as retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids. While these methods can help, they are harsh on the skin and sometimes can cause irritation and reactions. Before opting for these aggressive solutions, I encourage you to look into natural acne scar treatments, such as aloe vera.

Not only is it gentle and less invasive, but it is soothing and less likely to cause adverse reactions. Synthetic ingredients and chemicals in traditional acne scar treatments may also cause sensitivity, causing more harm than good. As Aloe vera is a natural plant extract known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s less likely to cause adverse side effects.

Furthermore, it’s no secret that professional acne treatment is expensive. Save money by using aloe vera for acne scars. As it can be sourced easily or even grown at home so is more affordable for those on a budget.

What is Aloe Vera?

Aloe vera is a succulent plant that belongs to the Aloe genus. It is native to arid regions and has thick, fleshy leaves that contain a gel-like substance. This substance from the aloe vera leaf is commonly used in skincare products, health supplements, and natural remedies due to its healing properties.

Fresh Aloe Vera Gel is rich in bioactive compounds, including vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, and polysaccharides, which contribute to its numerous health benefits. It is known for its soothing and healing properties, making it a popular natural acne scar treatment.

It’s also great for sunburn (I use it in my DIY after sun spray), cuts, and minor burns. The gel helps to moisturize the skin, reduce inflammation, promote wound healing, and improve overall skin health.

Common Uses for Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a medicinal plant commonly used in the cosmetic industry thanks to its hydrating and nourishing properties. It is found in a wide range of skincare products, such as moisturizers, lotions, and serums, due to its ability to improve skin elasticity and promote a healthy complexion.

However, it can also be consumed as a dietary supplement. Aloe vera juice (derived from the gel) is consumed for its potential digestive benefits and as a source of vitamins and antioxidants.

Overall, aloe vera is a versatile plant that offers various potential health benefits for skin problems, such a dry skin, oily skin, and even acne-prone skin. Alongside these benefits, it’s affordable and easy to source, making it a popular ingredient in the wellness and beauty industry.

How does aloe vera work as a natural acne scar treatment? 

1. Reduce Inflammation and Redness

Aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory chemical compounds called anthraquinones. These chemical compounds promote healing, reduce swelling and alleviate pain when applied to your skin.

It also contains salicylic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties. It helps to unclog pores, reduce redness, and calm inflamed skin associated with acne scars.

As well as soothing dry skin and providing relief from inflammation, aloe vera helps to promote a more even skin tone. That is why it is also the perfect ingredient to reduce redness after shaving in my DIY shave gel.

2. Promote the Healing Process and Collagen Production

Aloe vera contains compounds that aid in the healing process of the skin. It stimulates the production of collagen, a protein that plays a crucial role in skin regeneration and repair. As we age, our collagen production drops which is why many people (including me) like to supplement their diet with collagen powder.

As aloe vera contains vitamins C and E, these aid in collagen synthesis and protect collagen fibers from damage. By promoting collagen synthesis, aloe vera can help diminish the appearance of acne scars over time.

3. Moisturize and Hydrate the Skin

Fresh aloe vera gel contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can promote healthy skin. It is a natural moisturizer that can hydrate the skin without leaving it greasy or clogging pores. All while supporting the regeneration of new, healthy skin cells.

It helps to maintain the skin’s moisture balance, preventing dryness and flakiness that can make scars appear more prominent. For these reasons, I also use it in my DIY Sun relief spray. It helps to soothe and hydrate the skin after a day in the sun without leaving a greasy residue.

4. Exfoliate Dead Skin Cells

While I love a DIY facial scrub to remove dead skin cells, acne-prone skin sometimes needs a more gentle form of exfoliation. As aloe vera contains proteolytic enzymes (such as bromelain and papain), these help to gently exfoliate the skin and promote cell turnover.

These enzymes help to break down dead skin cells and promote their removal, revealing smoother and brighter skin. By sloughing off dead skin cells, aloe vera can improve the texture of the skin, making acne scars appear less noticeable.

5. Fade Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots

Acne scars often leave behind hyperpigmented spots or darkened areas. Aloe vera has been shown to have skin-lightening properties, which can help fade hyperpigmentation and even out the skin tone, reducing the visibility of acne scars.

As a tip, I recommend pairing with red light therapy for even better results. I personally use the Joovv, a medical-grade LED red light therapy device, and have found it works wonders for reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation from melasma, age spots, and acne scars.

How to Choose the Right Aloe Vera Products 

Choosing the right aloe vera products is essential to ensure you’re getting the best quality and maximum benefits. Here are some factors to consider before adding any product to your cart:

Use Only Pure Aloe Vera Gel

Look for products that contain pure aloe vera gel without unnecessary additives, fragrances, or colorants. Read the ingredient list carefully to ensure aloe vera is listed as one of the main ingredients, preferably near the top of the list.

Check for Authenticity

Look for products that are certified or labeled as 100% pure aloe vera gel. This helps ensure that the product is genuine and contains the beneficial properties of aloe vera. Some certifications to look for include the International Aloe Science Council (IASC) seal.

Reputation

Additionally, consider the reputation and credibility of the brand. Choose brands that are reputable and known for their commitment to quality and sourcing. Look for products that are produced using sustainable practices and have transparent information about their sourcing and manufacturing processes.

If the brand makes this information hard to find or at all secretive, I’d avoid. You want to only spend money with brands who are open books on sourcing so you have full control over the products you’re applying to your skin.

Read Product Reviews and Ratings

Before purchasing an aloe vera product (or any new product) take the time to read reviews and ratings from other users. This can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness, quality, and overall satisfaction of the product. Look for feedback specifically related to its benefits for acne scars or any other specific concerns you may have.

Patch Test a Small Area

It’s recommended to perform a patch test before using a new aloe vera product, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies. Apply a small amount of the product on a small area of your skin (such as the inner arm.) Then, observe for any adverse reactions, such as redness, itching, or irritation. If no negative reactions occur within 24 hours, it is generally safe to continue using.

How to Use Aloe Vera for Acne Scars

While homemade acne remedies are great at treating the source, sometimes the scarring can be just as visible as the acne itself. Luckily I’ve two recipes that can help in incorporating aloe vera as part of your skincare routine.

Firstly, my DIY aloe vera face mask, which is ideal as a natural acne scar treatment and then my aloe vera spot treatment to keep on top of blemishes.

DIY Aloe Vera Face Mask

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp aloe vera gel
• 1 tsp lemon juice 

Directions

1. Start by washing your face as normal. I like to use a natural DIY face wash to minimize irritation.
2. Then, mix the aloe vera gel and lemon juice in a small bowl.
3. Apply to the face and let it sit for 15 minutes.
4. Rinse face with warm water and pat skin dry.
5. For best results, follow with a natural facial serum and/or facial moisturizer. 

DIY Aloe Vera Spot Treatment 

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp aloe vera gel
• 1 tsp raw honey

Directions

1. This is best used as part of your evening skin care routine. Start by washing your face and applying toner as normal. My DIY facial toner restores your skin’s pH levels so is great for those with acne. 
2. Mix the aloe vera gel and raw honey in a small bowl.
3. Apply directly to the acne scars and let sit overnight.
4. In the morning, rinse face with warm water and pat skin dry.
5. Follow with a facial serum and/or facial moisturizer.  

How long does it take to see results? 

The time it takes to see results from these natural acne scar treatments can vary from person to person. It depends on factors such as the severity of the scars, individual skin characteristics, and the consistency of using these remedies.

Generally, natural treatments like aloe vera gel with lemon juice or aloe vera gel with honey may take a few weeks to show noticeable improvements. Patience and consistency are key. It’s advisable to use aloe vera for acne scars as part of your regular skincare routine. Apply either remedy to the affected areas consistently, preferably once or twice a day. Give it time to work and be consistent with the application.

It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that natural remedies may not provide immediate or dramatic results like some clinical treatments. However, it will be worth it to save your skin from aggressive and expensive treatments.

Can aloe vera cause adverse reactions? 

While aloe vera gel is generally well-tolerated by most people, it can potentially cause adverse reactions in some individuals, especially those with sensitive skin or allergies. It’s important to note that everyone’s skin is unique, and what works well for one person may not work the same for another.

Here are a few possible adverse reactions to be aware of:

• Skin Irritation: In rare cases, aloe vera gel can cause skin irritation, redness, itching, or a burning sensation. This can be more likely to happen if you have sensitive skin or if the aloe vera gel is not pure and contains additives or other ingredients that may cause a reaction.

• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some people may even be allergic to aloe vera. Allergic reactions can manifest as hives, rash, swelling, or even difficulty breathing. If you have a known allergy to plants in the Liliaceae family (such as onions, garlic, or tulips), it’s advisable to exercise caution when using aloe vera products.

• Photosensitivity: When applied topically, aloe vera gel can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. This increased sensitivity can lead to sunburn or skin discoloration if proper sun protection measures are not taken, such as using sunscreen or avoiding excessive sun exposure.

Should I use fresh aloe vera from the plant or store-bought aloe vera gel? 

Ultimately, both options can be effective, but it’s important to consider factors such as freshness, convenience, and personal preference. If using fresh aloe vera, ensure proper hygiene and extraction techniques to maintain its purity and minimize the risk of contamination.

If using store-bought aloe vera gel, use my tips above and choose a reputable brand to ensure you’re getting a high-quality product.

Some people prefer to use it directly from the plant as it’s the freshest, most purest form. It contains all the natural compounds and active ingredients without any added preservatives or processing. It’s also more cost-effective.

To do so, slit the leaf of an aloe plant lengthwise and remove the gel from the inside. This is easiest done with a spoon. Using fresh aloe vera gel means you can control its freshness and can use it immediately after extraction.

However, if you purchase high-quality aloe vera gel with no additives, synthetic fragrances or colors, it will yield similar results. It will also have a longer shelf life compared to aloe vera gel from the plant. It’s worth noting, some store-bought aloe vera gels may also contain additional beneficial ingredients. These include vitamins, antioxidants, or soothing agents, all of which can aid the healing process.

Hopefully my guide has inspired you to start using aloe vera for acne scars as a natural and effective solution. Its healing properties, ability to reduce inflammation, and promotion of skin regeneration make it a valuable addition to your skincare routine. Embrace the power of aloe vera for acne scars to unveil a smoother, more radiant complexion – all without breaking the bank.

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Have you tried aloe vera for acne scars? Don’t forget to comment below to let me know how it went. You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

Sources:
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2763764/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6330525/
• https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Aloe-Vera.aspx