In a 2016 study, researchers concluded that there isn’t enough evidence that topical vitamin E has a significant beneficial effect on scars to justify its widespread use. They noted the need for more high quality studies. Avéne Cicalfate+ Scar Gel: This gel was easy to use and apply, leaving little to no scent or residue behind, but it wasn’t overly moisturizing and didn’t really seem to effect any measurable change. Cut open a vitamin E capsule over the scar and squeeze the oil onto the scar (you might need more than just one capsule to get enough liquid for full coverage). Maurya AK, et al. (2018). The essential oil from Citrus limetta Risso peels alleviates skin inflammation: In-vitro and in-vivo study. to 4.7 stars: These scar creams are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

One 2016 study that looked at the impact of manuka honey on scars found that while honey has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, it didn’t make a difference in scar appearance when applied topically. When a large area of skin is damaged and has to join together again in the healing process, it can create a scar that not only feels tight but can cause problems with your muscles and tendons. These scars often require surgical intervention, so you should see a dermatologist if you’re interested in treating a contracture scar. Ingredients SiliconeThe scientific evidence around vitamin E and scars is inconclusive. Research on how vitamin E can treat acne and heal its scars is inconclusive. Dr. Brazzo says that the actual form of the treatment you choose isn’t that important (aside from choosing the right product for the right body part). The best scar treatment on the market won’t do much for you if it’s not compatible with the part of the body you want to use it on. While silicone patches or strips can be effective treatments, helping to keep the wound moist and reducing surface tension on the wound, Dr. Brazzo says they typically don’t work well for your face or jointed parts of the body that are always moving (like your knee or elbow, for example). If the scar you’re treating is on your face or one of these highly mobile areas, Dr. Brazzo says you will be better off with a topical product you can apply a few times per day. One 2016 study on rats found that the surface area of wounds topically treated with lavender oil was significantly decreased when compared with that of the control group.

There’s limited medical evidence supporting the idea that potatoes can help with scars. But one 2017 study found that potato peel may help heal minor burns.Our editors who tested these scar creams had a wide range of experience in using scar treatments, with some being prior users and others never having treated a scar with an OTC product before. The products were also tested on a variety of scars; some old and some new, some raised and others flat or sunken. Mederma Scar Cream + SPF 30: The Mederma Scar Cream with SPF was non-greasy and easy to apply, but the instructions said it should be applied three times per day—which felt like a lot, considering it didn’t make our scars look any different. Derma E Scar Gel: We liked the ease of application with this gel, but the lavender scent was overpowering and the small amount you get for the cost seemed a little unreasonable since it didn’t have a hugely noticeable effect on our scars. An older 1995 study that looked specifically at postsurgical wound healing noted significant improvement when baking soda was applied. This was observed at day 7 and more so at day 14.