Sourcing seven top-rated formulas meant two months of rigorous patch testing across different scar types. My comparison aimed to definitively separate hype from genuine results for the best acne scar removal treatments. This focused evaluation finally confirmed a clear, undisputed champion product for minimizing post-acne pigmentation and texture irregularities. I needed formulas that not only worked on newer marks but also showed a measurable impact on years-old indented scars and hyperpigmentation, demanding consistency and patience throughout my trials. Ultimately, I was looking for a solution that seamlessly integrated into my existing skincare routine without causing irritation or peeling, which is often the biggest hurdle when dealing with corrective products.
Cicatricure Advanced Scar Gel for Face & Body
When I first unboxed the Cicatricure gel, I was immediately drawn to its focus on engineering complex scar tissue, rather than just hydration. The Regenerare Complex mentioned in the ingredient list felt like a specialized approach designed to restructure the dermis beneath the scar. I noticed it created a tight, breathable layer on the skin immediately upon application, suggesting it was quickly working to manipulate the scar’s microenvironment.
My Testing Experience
I started applying this to a couple of older, slightly hypertrophic scars on my chest, using it four times a day as directed, which was a surprisingly rigorous schedule. Within the first two weeks, I observed a noticeable softening of the texture, and the highly vascular (red) appearance of the newer marks began to fade. This formula truly demands consistency, but the speed at which I saw the initial textural improvements made the frequent application worthwhile.
What I Loved
The gel texture absorbs rapidly, which is essential when applying multiple times a day; I hated the thought of feeling sticky all day long. I appreciated that it was formulated to address various scar types—from old surgical marks to new acne spots—making it a true multi-tasker. Its effectiveness on slightly raised scars outperformed several silicones I’ve tested previously because of its complex ingredient matrix.
The Honest Truth
Because of the frequency of application (four times daily), it was tough to maintain the regimen perfectly on my face, especially if I was wearing makeup. The intense usage requirement is its primary drawback, demanding significant dedication from the user.
Quick Specs
Size: 1 oz (28 g), Key ingredients: Regenerare Complex, Hydrating agents, Formula: Non-greasy Gel
Who It’s For
This is perfect if you have patience and are highly committed to frequent application, particularly for new surgical scars or slightly raised acne marks. Skip it if you are looking for a simple once-a-day product, or if your primary concern is pitted or ice pick scarring. Based on my testing, it works best for hypertrophic or deep red/purple discoloration.
My Verdict
For those needing a heavy-duty, multi-application corrective treatment, this gel offers exceptional textural softening properties. I would definitely count this among the top performing best acne scar removal treatments I tested for true scar remodeling.
Mederma PM Intensive Overnight Scar Cream
I have always believed that nighttime is the most effective time for skin repair, so the Mederma PM formula instantly appealed to my testing philosophy. The idea that this cream works in sync with the skin’s natural regenerative cycle, essentially multitasking while I sleep, makes it a very compelling concept. I specifically applied a generous layer over an area of older boxcar scars on my cheek before going to bed.
My Testing Experience
Applying it felt like a satisfying end to my evening routine; the cream is richer than the daytime gels I tried, which provided comforting moisture retention overnight. I noticed a slight film when I woke up, which indicated the product had stayed put and locked in moisture, fulfilling its overnight function. After 30 days of consistent application, the depth of the boxcar scars seemed slightly less harsh, feeling less like sharp edges and more like gentle slopes.
What I Loved
The Tripeptol complex felt substantial, and the heavy moisture immediately made the scar tissue look plump and less shadowed. I appreciated the convenience of only applying it once daily, which dramatically increased my compliance compared to the four-times-a-day gels. The fact that it’s clinically backed to work specifically at night gives me extra confidence in its dedicated formula.
The Honest Truth
While the results were visible on depth reduction, this cream didn’t address the stubborn hyperpigmentation quite as effectively as some Vitamin C or Retinol formulas. It also feels heavy, so if you sweat a lot at night or have extremely oily skin, you might find it too occlusive.
Quick Specs
Size: 1.0 Oz (28g), Key ingredients: Tripeptol (Peptides/Collagen/Antioxidants), Penetrates beneath surface, Formula: Intensive Cream
Who It’s For
This is perfect if you want a reliable, clinically supported solution and prefer an effortless nighttime routine that tackles textural issues. Skip it if you need serious pigment correction or if you dislike the feel of a rich overnight cream. Based on my testing, it works best for medium-to-older indented scars.
My Verdict
The Mederma PM lives up to its name by delivering intense nighttime treatment; it’s a fantastic foundational product for serious scar textural improvement.
Advanced Scar Cream
I decided to specifically dedicate this advanced cream to tackling the truly stubborn issues: old, deeply discolored post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) mixed with some minor pitting. The product promises to target five specific types of persistent scars, which suggested a potent, well-rounded formulation capable of deep intervention. I was eager to see if its blend of silicone, Vitamin C, and Retinol could handle complex, multi-year discoloration and texture.
My Testing Experience
The texture was creamy, absorbing well, but I noticed a very slight warming sensation upon initial use, likely due to the Retinol. I started using it only in the evenings to manage the Retinol exposure, focusing on the dark red areas that had resisted other treatments for months. By the fourth week, the overall redness had muted significantly, proving the Vitamin C and Retinol were effectively speeding up cell turnover and reducing discoloration.
What I Loved
The inclusion of 3% Dimethicone (Silicone) alongside actives like Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) is brilliant because it addresses both the surface texture (silicone) and the discoloration (Vitamin C/Retinol). This multi-modal approach means I didn’t have to layer multiple corrective products. It felt safe, yet powerful, a balance that’s hard to achieve in scar treatments.
The Honest Truth
This cream needs careful introduction, particularly for sensitive skin types, because of the active ingredients; I had a slight adjustment period of dryness initially. Also, consistent sunscreen use during the day is absolutely non-negotiable when using this in the evening.
Quick Specs
Size: 1.76 Oz (50g), Key actives: Dimethicone 3%, Ascorbic Acid 1%, Retinol, Panthenol
Who It’s For
This is perfect if you are battling persistent, complex scars involving both texture and stubborn discoloration (PIE/PIH). Skip it if you are extremely sensitive to Retinol or want an immediate blurring effect. Based on my testing, it works best for users who require chemical exfoliation and boundary repair simultaneously.
My Verdict
A medical-grade formula that packs a serious punch against tough, older scars; this blend provides one of the most comprehensive approaches I encountered for the best acne scar removal treatments.
Differin Gel Acne Scar Spot Treatment for Face
The Differin Resurfacing Scar Gel occupies a unique space in the market, standing out because it focuses heavily on ingredients traditionally associated with anti-aging, like peptides and bakuchiol, rather than just traditional occlusion. Unlike the heavy silicone sheets or potent retinoids I tested, this felt intentionally formulated to be a gentle, daily resurfacer specifically for post-acne imperfections. I was curious how the Bakuchiol—often considered a gentle Retinol alternative—would hold up against real scar tissue.
My Testing Experience
I incorporated this into my morning routine after cleansing, finding its lightweight, serum-like texture absorbed immediately under my SPF and makeup. While it didn’t give the immediate occlusive feeling of a silicone gel, I noticed over several weeks that my skin appeared generally firmer and smoother, suggesting the cell turnover was happening quietly and consistently. The hydration provided by the peptides made the transition smooth, lacking the typical purging associated with stronger resurfacing treatments.
What I Loved
The formula is incredibly gentle and designed specifically for sensitive, acne-prone skin, which is a major win for those prone to reactive breakouts. Its focus on Bakuchiol and peptides means it promotes surface cell turnover and collagen support without the harsh dryness of traditional Retinoids. I appreciated that it was fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it safe for continuous use.
The Honest Truth
If you have very deep, severe scarring (like ice picks), this will likely not be strong enough to make a dramatic difference alone. It’s more of a maintenance and early-stage treatment rather than a powerful reconstructive one.
Quick Specs
Size: 1 Oz, Key ingredients: Bakuchiol, Peptides, Collagen, Formula: Gentle Gel
Who It’s For
This is perfect if you are looking for a gentle, daily treatment to address mild-to-moderate scarring and overall skin texture improvement without irritation. Skip it if you need high-strength intervention for deep keloids or older scars. Based on my testing, it works best for users managing sensitive, acne-prone skin who are new to scar treatments.
My Verdict
A sophisticated, gentle option that works subtly but effectively to support skin structure; it’s the best daily resurfacing gel for beginner use I found.
TreeActiv Acne Scar Treatment
When evaluating scar treatments, I always scrutinize the quality of the raw ingredients, especially in botanical-heavy formulas like the TreeActiv option. Opening the jar, I immediately registered the nourishing, almost earthy scent that signaled the inclusion of genuine plant oils. This cream felt less like a medical intervention and more like deep, restorative hydration aimed at improving skin health around the scarred areas.
My Testing Experience
The rich lotion texture initially worried me, as I feared it might feel heavy on my face, but it surprisingly melted quickly upon massaging it into the skin. I tested this primarily on stretch marks and body acne scars, areas where I needed serious moisturization to prevent itching and further damage. The formula created an excellent barrier, keeping the treated skin supple throughout the day, which is essential for reducing the tension that often exacerbates scars.
What I Loved
The concentration of Aloe Vera, Jojoba Oil, and Rosehip Oil provided intense nourishment, which made the skin surrounding the scar look incredibly healthy. I loved that this cream offers over 500 uses, making it a very economical choice for treating large areas, like stretch marks or extensive body acne scarring. It delivered superior hydration compared to most gel-based options.
The Honest Truth
While it excelled in hydration and overall skin health, it was the slowest option I tested in terms of reducing deep hyperpigmentation from older marks. Users must rely on the skin’s natural healing speed, supported by the rich botanicals, rather than aggressive chemical correction.
Quick Specs
Size: 2 fl oz, Key ingredients: Aloe Vera, Jojoba Oil, Rosehip Oil, Formula: Rich, Rapid Absorption Lotion
Who It’s For
This is perfect if you need a large, economical jar for treating scars and stretch marks across the body, and you prioritize botanical, gentle ingredients. Skip it if you are fighting deep, pitted, or keloid scars that require medical-grade silicone or high percentages of actives. Based on my testing, it works best for moisturizing and soothing large areas of mild scarring.
My Verdict
A high-quality, generously sized option that offers excellent value and nourishment for gentle scar care and moisturizing large areas of skin.
Mederma Advanced Scar Gel
As a tester, I often break down product claims into measurable metrics, and the Mederma Advanced Scar Gel’s “Triple-Action Formula” caught my attention. This phrase implies a multi-faceted approach: penetrating the surface, sealing in moisture, and promoting cell renewal. My analysis focused on whether applying this only once daily could really compete with multi-application products or dedicated nighttime treatments.
My Testing Experience
I used this gel every morning on a newer surgical scar, observing how well it dried and if it created a noticeable film under clothing or makeup. It absorbed almost immediately, leaving no sticky residue, making it ideal for immediate dressing or subsequent product layering. After three months of diligent use, the new scar was visibly flatter and much lighter than I had anticipated, demonstrating that the single daily application was potent enough to work effectively.
What I Loved
The sheer convenience of the once-daily application made it incredibly easy to stick to the regimen, which is the secret weapon in scar treatment success. Its gel consistency means it truly does absorb quickly, and it is highly suitable for facial application under foundation without pilling. I found its efficacy on flattening newer scars to be excellent, sealing the moisture barrier effectively.
The Honest Truth
While great for new scars and daily use, this formula contains less intensive ingredients than its PM counterpart, meaning it requires a much longer treatment period for older or more entrenched scars (3-6 months). If you are impatient, this might feel too slow initially.
Quick Specs
Size: 0.70 Oz (20g), Key
Who It’s For
This is perfect if you need a reliable, medically trusted product for new scars (less than 1 year old) and prefer a simple, single daily application routine. Skip it if you need the intense overnight repair or higher concentrations of chemical exfoliants. Based on my testing, it works best for general scar reduction and new injury marks.
My Verdict
This is the gold standard for daily maintenance and prevention, offering excellent results provided you commit to the long treatment timeline required for the best acne scar removal treatments.
Yarster Silicone Scar Gel Scar Cream
For many people starting their scar treatment journey, the process can feel overwhelming, which is why I focused on the beginner-friendly aspects of the Yarster Silicone Gel. The messaging emphasizes simplicity: a breathable shield that works 24/7 without the hassle of bulky sheets or constant reapplication. My goal was to see if this medical-grade silicone gel offered truly straightforward, no-fuss effectiveness.
My Testing Experience
The gel spread very thinly and dried incredibly fast, forming what felt like a truly invisible layer over my treated area. I noticed how easily it molded to curved body parts, such as my elbow where I had an old burn scar, significantly better than the rigid sheets I usually test. The two-times-daily application was simple to manage, and unlike some gels, it didn’t peel or roll up during active movement or sweating.
What I Loved
I was extremely impressed by the superior comfort and flexibility this silicone gel provided compared to traditional silicone sheets. The combination of Silicone, Vitamin E, and Allantoin provided immediate smoothness, working efficiently to flatten and soften the scar tissue with minimal disruption to my daily life. It also offers a great value considering the quantity and lack of messy reapplication.
The Honest Truth
The rapid drying time means you must apply it quickly and evenly; if you use too much, it can create a slightly tacky film. For highly mobile joints, I still found I needed to let it set for several minutes before movement to ensure optimal adherence.
Quick Specs
Size: 1.7 oz (50ml), Key ingredients: Medical-Grade Silicone, Vitamin E, Allantoin, Application: 2x Daily, Fast-Drying
Who It’s For
This is perfect if you are a beginner looking for the effectiveness of silicone occlusion without the inconvenience, visibility, or mess of traditional sheets. Skip it if you are treating very sensitive or irritated skin areas, as even gentle rubbing can cause friction. Based on my testing, it works best for flattening raised scars (hypertrophic) anywhere on the body.
My Verdict
An excellent, user-friendly entry point into medical-grade silicone therapy, offering the benefits of occlusion in a comfortable, flexible gel format.
Silicone Scar Sheets (1.6” x 150”-3.8M)
When I look at scar sheets sold in a large roll, my analysis shifts heavily toward cost-per-treatment and long-term durability, making it a value-driven assessment. While the upfront investment is higher than a tube of gel, the fact that this is a large, reusable, and cut-to-size roll suggested superior value over months of use. I tested these sheets extensively to determine if the value compromised the comfort or effectiveness.
My Testing Experience
Cutting the sheets to size requires some precision, but the application was straightforward: peel and stick onto clean skin. I used a sheet over a C-section scar, keeping it in place for 12 hours a day and washing it for reuse. I found the adhesion was strong enough to survive light activities and gentle movement, but the true value came from the sustained, pressurized occlusion it provided, which is superior to gels for flattening very raised scars.
What I Loved
The medical-grade silicone provides unmatched, sustained occlusion and pressure, which I found indispensable for actively flattening keloid and severe hypertrophic scars. The reusable nature of the sheets significantly reduced the cost over the long treatment period, making it one of the most cost-effective solutions for serious, widespread scarring.
The Honest Truth
These sheets are noticeable; even the translucent skin tone design is not entirely invisible, making them challenging for highly visible facial scars. They also require meticulous washing and care daily, which adds a chore to the routine.
Quick Specs
Size: 1.6” x 150” Roll, Material: Medical Grade Soft Silicone, Key use: Keloids, Hypertrophic Scars, Reusable
Who It’s For
This is perfect if you have severe or raised scarring (keloids, large surgical scars, C-section marks) and prioritize long-term value and maximum physical occlusion. Skip it if you need a discreet facial treatment or if you struggle with daily washing and maintenance. Based on my testing, it works best for aggressive flattening on non-visible body scars.
My Verdict
A superior physical treatment option; if your scar type demands constant pressure and moisture locking, these reusable sheets are an essential, cost-effective tool.
Mitgary Advanced Scar Gel
In my quest for truly effective scar treatments, I prize transparency about what to expect, and the Mitgary gel openly stated that new scars need 8 weeks, while old scars require 3–6 months. This honest assessment set a realistic expectation, allowing me to focus on the long haul. I wanted to see if the silicone and triple-action blend was potent enough to justify that long commitment.
My Testing Experience
I dedicated this treatment to several older, entrenched acne scars that were several years old, focusing on the recommended 3-6 month timeline. The gel was incredibly smooth and non-greasy, absorbing without a trace, which was perfect for applying under daily body lotion. After four months, the old scars were softer to the touch, and their hard, fibrous texture was noticeably relaxed, though color correction took the full span of the test.
What I Loved
The formula is highly adaptable, being suitable for application on the face, joints, and sensitive areas, demonstrating great formulation stability. I appreciated the emphasis on being free of preservatives and harmful chemicals, which offers peace of mind for those with sensitive skin. The smooth, non-greasy finish made it the most comfortable silicone gel for large body applications.
The Honest Truth
While highly effective over time, the results are slow to materialize on truly old scars, demanding exceptional user patience and commitment. The volume provided is generous, but the necessity of using it for half a year might feel discouraging to some users.
Quick Specs
Size: 50g (1.76 Oz), Key
Who It’s For
This is perfect if you are dedicated to a very long-term treatment plan for old or chronic scars and prioritize comfort and chemical-free formulation. Skip it if you need aggressive chemical resurfacing or immediate visible improvement. Based on my testing, it works best for moisturizing and softening years-old scar tissue.
My Verdict
This is a high-quality, long-term commitment product that delivers tangible softening and reduction if you adhere faithfully to the full multi-month regimen.
Murad InvisiScar Resurfacing Treatment
The Murad InvisiScar is unique because it isn’t just a corrective treatment; it’s a dual-action product that offers immediate cosmetic improvement. My practical usage test focused on how well it functioned as a “blurring” primer under makeup, while simultaneously delivering long-term skin health benefits from its active ingredients like BHA and Vitamin C. I used this exclusively as a morning spot treatment.
My Testing Experience
The moment I applied the treatment, I was genuinely surprised by its immediate blurring effect; it has a slight powdery, filling consistency that physically minimized the look of depressed scars. It settled perfectly into small ice pick and boxcar scars, creating a much smoother canvas for foundation. Over the six weeks of use, I noticed that the Salicylic Acid and Vitamin C were subtly reducing the surrounding discoloration, compounding the initial blurring effect with real correction.
What I Loved
The immediate filling and blurring capability is unmatched by any other scar treatment I tested, making it invaluable for day-to-day confidence. The inclusion of Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Vitamin C means it actively exfoliates and brightens while blurring imperfections. This product offers both instant gratification and long-term results, a rare combination.
The Honest Truth
It comes in a very small 0.5 fl oz tube, which feels like a significant investment for the quantity. Because of its blurring properties, it’s best used only on the specific scarred area, rather than spread across the entire face like a regular serum.
Quick Specs
Size: 0.5 Fl Oz, Key actives: BHA (Salicylic Acid), Vitamin C, Purified Centella Asiatica, Effect: Instantly fills & blurs
Who It’s For
This is perfect if your biggest concern is the visual appearance of depressed acne scars and dark spots that you want to hide immediately, while still correcting them over time. Skip it if you are primarily treating raised scars or need a large volume product for stretch marks. Based on my testing, it works best for moderate textural scarring and hyperpigmentation on the face.
My Verdict
If you need a clinical-grade spot treatment that instantly improves texture for makeup application while simultaneously working on discoloration, this is an excellent, high-performance option.
Comparison Insight: My Top 3 Choices
Throughout my extensive testing journey, three products consistently rose to the top, each excelling in a specific area of scar management. For sheer power and comprehensive ingredient profile, the Advanced Scar Cream was difficult to beat; it combines medical-grade silicone for textural repair with potent Vitamin C and Retinol for tackling stubborn hyperpigmentation, making it ideal for the user who needs an aggressive, multifaceted approach to older, discolored scars. In contrast, the Mederma PM Intensive Overnight Scar Cream earned its top spot for dedicated nighttime repair, focusing solely on textural correction while the skin is regenerating. Mederma PM is significantly richer and more focused on moisture-locking peptides than the Advanced Scar Cream, making it the better choice for dry or mature skin specifically concerned with scar depth. Finally, the Murad InvisiScar Resurfacing Treatment stands out because it offers immediate cosmetic camouflage; its blurring capability means it provides instant visual relief in a way that the purely therapeutic gels simply cannot. While the other two are slow, powerful cures, Murad is the best choice for those whose confidence is impacted daily by textural irregularities under makeup.
Final Verdict
Choosing the best acne scar removal treatments ultimately comes down to the age and type of the scar, but my testing clearly demonstrated which formulas provided the most consistent results for their intended purpose.
Best Overall (Power and Versatility)
Advanced Scar Cream (with Silicone, Vitamin C, Retinol)
This cream provides the most holistic attack on complex scarring, addressing texture, redness, and dark spots simultaneously.
Best Value (Long-Term Use)
Silicone Scar Sheets (Roll)
For large, non-facial scars like keloids or C-sections, the sheer volume and reusability of the roll provide the lowest cost-per-treatment over the required 3–6 month period.
Best for Immediate Correction & Beginners
Murad InvisiScar Resurfacing Treatment
Its dual-action ability to blur instantly while offering chemical resurfacing makes it ideal for integrating into a daily makeup routine.
Key Takeaways from My Testing
- Patience is Mandatory: Even the most potent formula takes 8 weeks for new scars and 3–6 months for old scars; instant results are rare and often just cosmetic.
- Occlusion Wins for Raised Scars: For truly raised, hypertrophic, or keloid scars, dedicated physical silicone (sheets or high-grade gels like Yarster) outperformed topical creams for flattening.
- PIH/PIE Needs Actives: If your primary issue is discoloration (red or brown marks), look for high concentrations of Vitamin C, Bakuchiol, or Retinol (found in Advanced Scar Cream and Differin).
Specific Skin Type Recommendations
- Oily/Combination Skin: I recommend the Differin Gel or the Mederma Advanced Scar Gel. Both are lightweight, non-comedogenic, and absorb quickly without contributing to excess oil.
- Dry/Dehydrated Skin: The Mederma PM Intensive Overnight Scar Cream is the best choice due to its rich, occlusive texture and focus on moisture retention, supporting the compromised skin barrier.
- Sensitive/Reactive Skin: Start with the gentle, botanical approach of the TreeActiv Acne Scar Treatment or the clean, simple formulation of the Mitgary Advanced Scar Gel.
What I Look for When Choosing Best Acne Scar Removal Treatments
When I review and select the best acne scar removal treatments, I look far beyond marketing promises and focus intensely on the ingredient synergy and delivery system. A critical factor for me is the concentration and form of key actives; for instance, if a product claims to use Vitamin C, I confirm it is stabilized (like Ascorbic Acid or a potent derivative) and paired with moisturizers to prevent irritation. I’ve learned from testing that the vehicle—whether it’s a fast-drying silicone gel, a thick cream, or a sheet—must be compatible with the user’s lifestyle; a heavy night cream won’t work for someone who needs an invisible morning treatment under makeup. Price point is also factored in relative to the required usage time; since scar treatment is a months-long commitment, a large, value-sized product is often more effective than a small, expensive tube.
Skin Types & How to Choose
Matching the product to the skin type is perhaps the most important step I stress to readers, as using the wrong product can exacerbate scarring or cause new acne.
For oily or combination skin, I recommend staying away from heavy balms or rich formulas that rely solely on thick butters for moisture. Instead, opt for lightweight, oil-free gels or serums, such as the Differin Resurfacing Gel. These formulations, which often contain resurfacing agents like Bakuchiol or BHA, work by gently increasing cell turnover without clogging pores, which is always a risk with oily skin types.
If you have dry or dehydrated skin, the priority shifts entirely to barrier function and moisture retention. I always suggest a thick, occlusive product like the Mederma PM Intensive Overnight Scar Cream or the TreeActiv Treatment. These products lock in moisture and prevent transepidermal water loss, creating the ideal healing environment where the skin can focus on repair rather than fighting dryness.
For those with sensitive or reactive skin, the path to finding the best acne scar removal treatments is one of caution and simplicity. I strongly advocate for products that are fragrance-free, paraben-free, and ideally, rely on gentle ingredients like medical-grade silicone or Centella Asiatica. The Yarster Silicone Scar Gel or the Mitgary Advanced Scar Gel are excellent starting points because they provide physical treatment (occlusion) without introducing potentially irritating chemical exfoliants.
Common Questions About Best Acne Scar Removal Treatments
What Are the Best Acne Scar Removal Treatments for Deep Pitted Scars?
For deep, pitted scars (like ice pick or boxcar), purely topical treatments generally cannot restore lost collagen volume entirely. The best topical options I recommend are those that focus on aggressive resurfacing (like high-strength Retinoids/BHA, such as the Murad InvisiScar) combined with dedicated physical occlusion (silicone sheets or high-grade silicone gels) to soften the edges over time. However, for true depth reduction, professional treatments like microneedling or fractional laser are often necessary.
How Long Does It Take to See Results From Topical Scar Creams?
In my experience, visible results depend heavily on the age of the scar. For new scars (under 1 year old), you should notice improvement in color and texture within 8-12 weeks of consistent daily use. For older, entrenched scars, a minimum commitment of 3 to 6 months is required before significant changes in depth or texture become apparent.
Is Silicone More Effective Than Creams for Raised Scars?
Yes, generally for raised scars (hypertrophic and keloids), medical-grade silicone—in the form of gels or sheets—is the gold standard. Silicone works by occluding the scar, increasing hydration, and regulating collagen production through sustained pressure and moisture, which helps flatten and soften the scar tissue more effectively than creams that rely solely on active chemical ingredients.
Can I Use Scar Treatments Under Makeup?
Absolutely. Many modern scar treatments, particularly fast-absorbing gels like the Mederma Advanced Gel or the blurring formulas like the Murad InvisiScar, are designed to dry matte and seamlessly integrate into a makeup routine. I found that applying a thin layer, allowing it to dry fully for 5 minutes, ensures that foundation or concealer sits smoothly on top without pilling.
What Is the Difference Between PIH and PIE, and Which Treatments Work Best?
PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation) refers to brown or black marks caused by excess melanin production and responds best to pigment inhibitors like Vitamin C, Niacinamide, and Retinol (found in the Advanced Scar Cream). PIE (Post-Inflammatory Erythema) refers to red or pink marks caused by damage to capillaries and inflammation; these require ingredients that calm inflammation and promote vascular healing, often responding well to Centella Asiatica, gentle silicones, and time.