Best Scar Treatments - Options That Actually Work

Scars are the body's way of healing after an injury — but they don’t always fade quietly. Whether you're dealing with acne scars, surgical scars, or burn scars, finding the best scar treatment depends on understanding your specific scar type and choosing clinically supported options.

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about scar types, professional treatments, proven at-home remedies, and expert insights — all backed by science.

Best Scar Treatment Products (Tried, Tested & Targeted)

Not all scar products work the same — and not all are right for your scar type. Here’s a breakdown of top dermatologist-recommended options with clear use cases:

1. Biodermis Epi-Derm C-Strip Silicone Scar Sheets

2. Mederma Advanced Scar Gel

3. ScarAway Silicone Sheets

4. Bio-Oil Skincare Oil

5. Cica-Care Silicone Gel Sheet

Comparison Table of Top Scar Treatments

Product Reviews

1. Biodermis Epi-Derm C-Strip Silicone Scar Sheets

Best for: C-section scars, surgical scars, hypertrophic scars
Key ingredient: 100% Medical-grade silicone

Biodermis is the clinical gold standard when it comes to silicone scar therapy. These C-Strips are flexible, reusable, and designed to be worn 24/7 — minus bathing. They're especially effective on surgical scars and have long been used in hospitals and dermatology clinics.

How to find the optimal choice: Ideal for long-term post-op scar care. If you want a professional-grade option that works with minimal daily effort, start here.

Buy from Biodermis »

2. Mederma Advanced Scar Gel

Best for: Surgical scars, injury scars, stretch marks
Key ingredient: Allium cepa (onion extract)

This drugstore favorite is clinically proven and easy to use. The gel formula absorbs quickly and works best on newly formed scars, although it can still improve the appearance of older ones with consistent application.

How to find the optimal choice: Great if you prefer a lightweight, topical solution and don’t want to deal with sheets or reusables. Best for mild to moderate scars.

3. ScarAway Silicone Sheets

Best for: Hypertrophic scars, keloids, post-surgical
Key ingredient: 100% Medical-grade silicone

ScarAway offers high-quality, breathable silicone sheets designed to flatten and reduce raised scars. They’re discreet and reusable, making them great for daily wear under clothing.

How to find the optimal choice: Excellent if you’re treating raised scars like keloids and want a solution that’s non-invasive and doesn’t involve daily application of cream.

4. Bio-Oil Skincare Oil

Best for: Atrophic scars, stretch marks, uneven tone
Key ingredients: Vitamin A, E, chamomile, lavender, and natural oils

Bio-Oil is more of a skin-enhancer than a heavy-duty scar eraser. It’s a solid option for improving skin texture and reducing pigmentation over time, especially for older stretch marks or flat scars.

How to find the optimal choice: Choose this if your concern is more about tone and hydration than raised scar tissue. Not recommended for thick or hypertrophic scars.

5. Cica-Care Silicone Gel Sheet

Best for: Large surgical or burn scars
Key ingredient: Medical-grade silicone

Trusted in hospitals, Cica-Care is a serious option for tough scars. These gel sheets are thick, durable, and reusable for up to 28 days. They’re effective, but not exactly discreet or small.

How to find the optimal choice: Best for large areas with significant scarring. If you’re recovering from major surgery or burns, this is a solid long-term option.

Understanding Scars: Why They Form and Persist

Scars develop when your skin heals after trauma. Instead of regenerating the original skin structure, your body replaces it with fibrous tissue — resulting in a visible mark.

Learn more: What Are Scars and How Do They Form?

Scars can have emotional, cosmetic, and even physical consequences. Some limit movement, others affect self-confidence. Thankfully, the right treatment can significantly reduce their appearance.

Types of Scars (and Why Treatment Must Be Specific)

Not all scars are the same, and choosing the right treatment depends on identifying the type.

Hypertrophic Scars

Raised, red, and firm scars that stay within the wound boundary. Common after cuts or surgery, they may itch or thicken but usually flatten over time.

Best treatments: Silicone sheets, steroid injections, laser therapy.

Keloid Scars

Thick, raised scars that grow beyond the original injury. More common in darker skin tones and can continue growing without treatment.

Best treatments: Steroid injections, silicone therapy, cryotherapy, laser, or surgery (with caution).

Atrophic Scars

Sunken scars caused by tissue loss — often from acne or chickenpox. Appear as pits or depressions in the skin.

Best treatments: Microneedling, subcision, dermal fillers, or laser resurfacing.

Contracture Scars

Tight, shiny scars from burns that can restrict movement. They pull the skin inward, especially around joints.

Best treatments: Surgery, skin grafting, laser therapy, and physical therapy.

Each scar type needs a tailored approach — using the wrong treatment can delay healing or worsen the result.

Episof® Silicone Gel by Biodermis For those seeking a dermatologist-trusted topical solution, Episof® 30 ml Pump offers a fast-drying, non-oily silicone gel designed to treat scars discreetly and effectively — especially in visible areas. Ideal for hypertrophic and keloid scars, Episof forms a protective barrier that regulates collagen production and hydrates the scar site, softening texture over time. It’s clinically backed and widely used by post-operative care professionals. 

Medical Treatments for Scars (Backed by Dermatologists)

Topical Treatments

• Scarring is a natural part of the healing process, but for many, the appearance of scars can be bothersome. Whether it's from acne, surgery, or an injury, there are several medical treatments available that can help reduce scar visibility and improve skin texture. Dermatologists recommend a variety of treatments, both topical and in-office, to help minimize the appearance of scars. Here’s a look at some of the most effective options.

  Topical Treatments for Scar Reduction

  1. Retinoid Creams (Prescription)
     Retinoids, available by prescription, are some of the most powerful tools for improving scar texture and color. They work by boosting cell turnover, helping to speed up the shedding of old, damaged skin cells and promoting the production of new, healthy skin. Retinoids are particularly effective for treating atrophic scars (such as those left by acne), where the skin appears sunken or pitted. Over time, they can help smooth out the scar’s appearance, improve pigment irregularities, and restore skin’s overall texture.

  2. Corticosteroid Creams
     Often used for hypertrophic scars (raised, thickened scars), corticosteroid creams help reduce inflammation and the overproduction of collagen. These creams are applied directly to the scar and can make a noticeable difference in the thickness and appearance of the scar over time. They’re frequently recommended for conditions like keloid or hypertrophic scars where excess scar tissue forms.

  3. OTC Scar Gels
     Over-the-counter options like Mederma (which contains onion extract) and Bio-Oil can be helpful for improving the appearance of scars. While they may not deliver dramatic results as quickly as prescription treatments, these gels and oils work by fading discoloration and improving skin texture with consistent use over time. They’re a great option for those looking for a non-invasive solution to tackle minor scars.

  4. Silicone Sheets/Gels
     When it comes to flattening raised scars and preventing new ones, silicone sheets and gels (like ScarAway and Cica-Care) remain the most recommended and effective option by dermatologists. Silicone works by providing a barrier that helps hydrate the scar, while also exerting gentle pressure to prevent further collagen buildup. This is particularly effective for surgical scars, burns, and other scars that have a raised or thick appearance. Regular use can significantly reduce the size and thickness of a scar, making it less noticeable.

  
  

Injections

While topical treatments can be highly effective for managing scars, sometimes they aren't enough, especially for more persistent or severe types. In these cases, injectable treatments become a powerful option, particularly for hypertrophic and keloid scars, which are often more resistant to at-home remedies. Dermatologists commonly recommend a variety of injectable treatments to shrink and flatten these types of scars. Let’s take a closer look at the most effective injectable options available.

Injectable Treatments for Scar Reduction

1. 1. Steroid Injections
      Steroid injections are often the go-to treatment for shrinking hypertrophic and keloid scars. These injections work by reducing inflammation and collagen production, which helps to flatten and soften the scar tissue. The steroid is directly injected into the scar tissue, and results are typically noticeable within just a few weeks. Steroid injections are particularly beneficial for scars that are raised and thickened, offering a non-surgical solution to minimize their appearance.

   2. 5-FU and Bleomycin Injections
      For scars that are resistant to steroid treatment, 5-FU (5-Fluorouracil) and Bleomycin injections are considered second-line options. These treatments are often used in combination for particularly tough keloids that don’t respond to steroids alone. 5-FU works by inhibiting the activity of fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen production, while Bleomycin targets scar tissue and helps break it down. When used together, these injections can be highly effective for reducing the size and prominence of stubborn keloid scars.

Laser & Light Therapy

When it comes to treating scars, lasers have become one of the most advanced and effective options. Dermatologists use different types of lasers depending on the type of scar and skin tone. Laser treatments work by targeting the deeper layers of the skin, breaking down old scar tissue, stimulating collagen production, and improving the appearance of scars. Here’s a look at some of the most common laser treatments for scar reduction.

Laser Treatments for Scar Management

1. 1. Fractional CO₂ Laser
      The Fractional CO₂ laser is one of the most powerful laser treatments available for scar reduction. This laser works by breaking down old scar tissue and stimulating the production of new collagen in the skin. The process helps to resurface the skin, improving the texture and appearance of scars. It’s particularly effective for acne scars, surgical scars, and deep scars. Since the laser targets the deeper layers of skin, it can penetrate below the surface, making it highly beneficial for scars that are more embedded or severe.

   2. Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL)
      The Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) is used primarily for reducing redness and itching in hypertrophic and keloid scars. PDL works by targeting blood vessels in the scar tissue, helping to reduce the redness that often accompanies these types of scars. It also helps alleviate discomfort caused by itching or inflammation. PDL is an excellent option for those looking to reduce the vascular appearance of their scars and improve their overall skin tone.

   3. Er:YAG or Nd:YAG Lasers
      Both Er:YAG and Nd:YAG lasers are commonly used for treating scars in individuals with lighter skin types or for scars that are pigmented. The Er:YAG laser targets the outer layers of the skin, making it ideal for pigmented scars like those caused by acne. The Nd:YAG laser penetrates deeper layers and is effective for more extensive scar treatment. Both lasers are known for their precision, which makes them well-suited for patients with lighter skin tones and scars that are more superficial or discolored.

Minor Surgical Procedures

• Scar revision surgery: Cuts out or repositions large or deep scars, often improving cosmetic outcome.
  

• Subcision: Minimally invasive procedure that breaks fibrous bands under atrophic scars (like rolling acne scars).
  

• Cryosurgery: Uses extreme cold (usually liquid nitrogen) to shrink small, raised scars — especially early keloids.
  

Read: The Role of Collagen in Skin Health

Advanced Dermatologic Procedures

• Microneedling: Controlled micro-injury boosts collagen for pitted or uneven scars; often paired with PRP.
  

• Chemical peels: Help fade post-inflammatory pigmentation and smooth superficial texture irregularities.
  

• Dermabrasion: Mechanically exfoliates thick, raised scars — best for fair skin tones.
  

• Dermal fillers: Temporarily raise depressed scars (e.g., atrophic acne) to skin level — immediate but not permanent.

Read: The Role of Collagen in Scar Formation and Healing

“A multi-modal treatment plan that accounts for scar type, depth, and skin type yields the best functional and cosmetic outcomes.”
— Cleveland Clinic, Scars: Treatment and Cause

 For full clinical review, visit: Cleveland Clinic – Scars: Treatment and Cause

Natural & At-Home Remedies: What Actually Works (and What Doesn’t)

While home remedies are widely discussed online, not all are equally effective — and some can even irritate your skin. These options are best for mild discoloration or early-stage scars, not deep or raised ones.

Important: Always patch test and consult your dermatologist before using any natural remedy, especially on broken or sensitive skin.

Remedies with Some Clinical Support

• Onion Extract
  Found in OTC products like Mederma, this has mild anti-inflammatory properties. It may help soften and fade early or surgical scars with consistent use over 8–12 weeks.
  

• Aloe Vera
  Known for its soothing and moisturizing effect. It can reduce itchiness and redness in healing wounds but has limited ability to flatten or fade established scars.
  

• Rosehip Seed Oil
  Rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants like vitamin A. Small studies suggest it may help improve skin texture and pigmentation over time.

Popular But Less Proven

• Vitamin E Oil
  Frequently used, but research shows mixed results. In some cases, it may actually irritate skin or delay healing, especially post-surgery.
  

• Honey
  Excellent as an antimicrobial dressing for fresh wounds but limited evidence for use on mature scars.
  

• Coconut Oil
  Helps with skin hydration, which may support healing, but not proven to reduce scarring on its own.

Use With Caution

• Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
  Sometimes promoted as a natural exfoliant, but its acidity can cause chemical burns or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) if used undiluted.
  

• Lemon Juice
  Though it may lighten dark spots temporarily, it increases sun sensitivity and can worsen pigmentation in many skin types.
  

More: Interesting Facts About Scars

Lifestyle Tips to Support Scar Healing (What Actually Makes a Difference)

These small daily actions can significantly influence how your scar matures — especially in the first 6 to 12 months after injury or surgery.

Sun Protection (Daily Must)

UV exposure can permanently darken scars, especially fresh ones. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.

• Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure.
  

• Reapply every 2 hours if outdoors.
  

• For raised or healing scars, consider silicone gel with SPF for dual protection.
  

Why it matters: Melanin production increases with UV, leading to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — especially in darker skin tones.

Scar Massage (If Advised by Your Doctor)

Massaging a scar for 5–10 minutes daily can:

• Improve blood flow
  

• Reduce collagen build-up (for raised scars)
  

• Increase flexibility and softness in thick or contracture scars
  

Use gentle circular motions with a moisturizing cream or silicone gel, starting only after the wound is fully closed.

Nutrition (Fuel for Skin Repair)

What you eat can speed up — or slow down — how well your skin regenerates:

• Vitamin C: Boosts collagen production (found in citrus, bell peppers, broccoli)
  

• Zinc: Speeds wound healing and reduces inflammation (pumpkin seeds, beans, shellfish)
  

• Vitamin A: Aids in cell turnover (sweet potatoes, spinach, carrots)
  

• Protein: Essential for rebuilding tissue (eggs, lean meats, tofu)

What Dermatologists Want You to Know About Treating Scars

Successful scar treatment isn’t just about what you use — it’s also about when and how you use it. Here are the key insights dermatologists emphasize that most people overlook:

Early Treatment Makes a Big Difference

Scars go through a remodeling phase for up to 12 months after an injury. During this window, the tissue is still responsive to intervention.

• Start treatment as soon as the wound is fully closed — not months later.
  

• Silicone sheets, gentle massage, and SPF should begin within the first few weeks post-injury or surgery.
  

• Delaying care often leads to thicker, darker, or more stubborn scars.
  

Timing is critical — the earlier you intervene, the more likely you’ll prevent permanent changes in texture or color.

Not All “Scar Creams” Are Created Equal

Many over-the-counter creams promise dramatic results but lack clinical backing.

• Only silicone-based products and certain prescription topicals (e.g., retinoids, corticosteroids) have consistent peer-reviewed support.
  

• Onion extract (Mederma), vitamin E, and herbal oils may help some people — but they’re not one-size-fits-all.
  

Dermatologists caution against relying solely on creams — especially for deep, raised, or complex scars.

Combine Therapies for Best Results

No single treatment works for every scar — and layered approaches are often the most effective.

• For acne scars: Combine microneedling with PRP, or laser resurfacing with subcision.
  

• For keloids: Pair steroid injections with silicone sheets, cryotherapy, or laser.
  

• For surgical scars: Start with silicone, follow up with gentle massage and SPF, and consider laser if needed later.
  

FAQs: Best Scar Treatments

What is the most effective scar removal treatment?
Fractional CO2 laser and pulsed dye laser (PDL) are among the most effective for acne, surgical, and keloid scars.

What is the most effective way to remove scars?
Combining methods — like laser, microneedling, and silicone sheets — yields the best long-term results.

What is the best thing to put on a scar?
Silicone gel or silicone sheets remain the gold standard, especially for raised or post-surgery scars.

What is the latest treatment for scars?
Innovations include PRP-enhanced microneedling, erbium lasers, and injectable biologics for advanced scar remodeling.

Conclusion: What’s the Best Scar Treatment for You?

There’s no single solution that works for every scar — the best scar treatment depends on several personal factors. The type of scar you have (whether atrophic, hypertrophic, keloid, or contracture) plays a key role in determining what approach will be most effective. Your skin tone, sensitivity, the scar’s age, and its location also influence treatment outcomes. Some people may benefit from a simple topical solution, while others may need a combination of laser therapy, injectables, or minor procedures. That’s why consulting a dermatologist is so important — they can build a personalized plan that blends medical, cosmetic, or natural methods to help you achieve the best long-term results.

Explore: Types of Scars
Start Right: How to Heal Wounds Faster: A Comprehensive Guide