How to get rid of chicken pox scars?

Chicken pox scars can be frustrating, but there's hope! While those itchy red spots heal, they sometimes leave behind marks or indentations on the skin. This occurs because the virus damages the skin during the healing process, especially if you scratch the spots (which we know is tempting but best avoided!).

Although, many chicken pox scars will naturally become less noticeable over time. However, if you're looking to speed up this process or deal with more stubborn scars, there are several treatments you can try at home or with a doctor's help.

Let’s discuss treatment options, including simple home remedies you can use today and more involved medical treatments for severe scarring.

Natural Remedies

Natural remedies can be a gentle and economical way to treat chicken pox scars. Here are some proven natural treatments you can try:

1. Vitamin E Oil: To use, gently massage some drops of Vitamin E oil (from a capsule or directly) into your scars in circular motions before bedtime. This antioxidant helps repair skin cells.
2. Coconut Oil: Apply warm (not hot) coconut oil to scars twice daily. Its moisturising and healing properties can help soften scar tissue and promote skin regeneration.
3. Aloe Vera Gel: Fresh aloe vera gel contains natural healing compounds that can reduce inflammation and help fade scars. Cut open an aloe leaf and apply the clear gel directly to your scars.
4. Lemon Juice: Lemon juice's natural acids are a gentle exfoliant that can help lighten dark scars over time. Dab fresh lemon juice on your scars using a cotton ball, leave it on for 10 minutes, and then rinse.
5. Raw Honey: This natural antibacterial agent contains enzymes that help repair skin damage and promote healing. Spread a thin layer of raw honey to the scars in a thin layer. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes.

Medical Treatments

Medical treatments can provide more effective solutions than natural remedies for more stubborn scars. Here are the medical options you can discuss with your dermatologist:

1. Over-the-Counter Scar Creams: These special creams contain ingredients like silicone and peptides that may help fade scars. You can get them from pharmacies without a prescription but read the instructions carefully.
2. Chemical peels: A doctor performs chemical peels. These methods use a chemical solution to remove the damaged outer layer of skin. This allows new, healthier skin to grow in its place.
3. Dermal Fillers: Doctors can inject special gel-like substances to raise the scarred area to match the surrounding skin for deep chicken pox scars that look like minor dents in your skin. These fillers last several months to a year.
4. Laser Therapy: This treatment uses focused light beams to remove the scarred skin's top layer or stimulate new skin growth from below. It might take several sessions, and your skin will be red for a few days after each treatment.
5. Microdermabrasion: It is a safe procedure performed by a qualified professional. It involves gently buffing away the top layer of skin using a specialised device.
   

How To Prevent Chicken Pox Scars?

It's much easier to prevent chicken pox scars than to treat them later. Careful skin care during the outbreak and healing process is vital. Here are some key tips to minimise scarring:

1. Don't Scratch the Spots: This is probably the hardest rule to follow, but it's the most important one! When you scratch chicken pox blisters, you damage the skin underneath and increase the chance of scarring. 
2. Keep Your Skin Clean: To prevent infection, wash your skin twice daily with mild soap and warm water. Then, use a clean towel to dry your skin gently.
3. Use Calamine Lotion: This pink-coloured lotion is your best friend during chicken pox! It helps reduce itching and helps dry out the blisters so they can heal properly.
4. Protect Your Skin from the Sun: Sunlight can make scars darker and more noticeable, even years after the chicken pox has healed. Always use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on any exposed scarred areas.
5. Wear Loose, Soft Clothing: Tight or rough clothes can irritate your skin and make you more likely to scratch. Choose loose-fitting, soft cotton clothes while your chicken pox heals. This gives your skin room to breathe.
   

Lifestyle Fixes

Making small changes to how you live your day can help your skin heal faster and reduce chicken pox scars. These changes may seem small, but if you do them regularly, they can make a difference.

Here are some helpful things you can do:

• Follow a Regular Skincare Routine: Wash, tone, and moisturise your face morning and night to keep your skin healthy and help it heal.
• Keep Your Skin Healthy: Have plenty of water daily to keep your skin healthy. This helps your skin repair itself naturally.
• Eat Foods containing Vitamins A, C, and E: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats to give your skin the nutrients it needs to heal. You may add some superfoods to improve your overall health.
• Tackle Your Stress: Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation, as stress can slow your skin's healing process.
• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: These habits can slow down healing and make scars more noticeable by reducing blood flow to your skin.
• Maintain Healthy Skin: Use pH-balanced skin products to help maintain your skin's natural balance and support its ability to heal.
  

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Final Thoughts

Chicken pox scars can take time to fade. You can try things like vitamin E oil or honey or get treatments from a doctor. Be patient and stick with whatever you choose, as everyone's skin is different. Don't give up if you don't see results right away. Keep trying, and you should see improvement.