Skincare for Scars
Last week I was asked if I had ever written a post with tips for scarring, and despite it being a problem I have dealt with, it’s not a topic I’ve ever touched on. So today I thought I would do a quick but hopefully comprehensive post on dealing with scarring. First things first, there are a ton of ingredients that are commonly used in skincare to help with scarring, here are a few to look for:
Vitamin C
This is a classic ingredient in skincare products marketed for both brightening and handling scarring. That’s because it is so effective at lightening dark marks like hyperpigmentation and scarring. Just be sure to use sunscreen when employing this ingredient.
Retinol
One of the ultimate multitasking ingredients, retinol not only can minimize scarring, but help to prevent it from occurring in the first place.
Salicylic Acid
Commonly used as an acne treatment, Salicylic acid, also known as Beta Hydroxy Acid, boosts cell turnover. That means that any scars you do have will be encourage to heal as new cells replace the old ones.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Also known as AHAs, these are commonly found in exfoliating masks or chemical peels because, like salicylic acid, they promote cell turnover.
Hydroquinone
This ingredient is somewhat controversial because of its use as a skin lightener, but it is an extremely effective tool for fading scars and dark spots.
Not sure where to get started? Here are a few of my hero products for scarring:
Drunk Elephant TLC Sukari Babyfacial
With 25% AHA and 2% BHA, plus a killer combo of salicylic, glycolic, tartaric, citric, and lactic acids, this mask is packs a hell of a punch. It also features brightening chickpea flour and niacinamide, plus a whole bunch of antioxidants. It’s expensive yes, but it’s also the most comprehensive product for brightening (and thus scar fading) that I’ve ever seen.
Sunday Riley Power Couple Duo
This duo includes Good Genes, which features lactic acid for exfoliation and licorice for brightening, a great treatment for any stubborn dark spots and scars, plus boosting your overall radiance. The other half of the duo is the Luna Sleeping Night Oil, a retinol oil that hydrates as it refines.
If you’ve got any questions or want any more product recommendations, just let me know!