Keloid scars, those raised and often unsightly growths that form after skin injuries, can be a source of distress for many. While they pose no health risk, their appearance can be bothersome. If you’re seeking a natural approach to minimize keloids, lemon juice might be worth considering.
What are Keloids?
Keloids are smooth growths that develop when fibrous tissue, which is supposed to protect a wound, grows excessively. Keloids can result from various skin injuries, such as acne, burns, bites, scrapes, cuts, or chickenpox. They arise due to an overproduction of collagen in the affected area.
The Potential of Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, which may help in treating different types of scars, including keloids. Some proponents suggest that lemon juice can lighten the scar’s color and reduce its prominence due to its natural antioxidant properties.
How to Use Lemon Juice for Keloids
- Apply freshly extracted lemon juice directly to the scar.
- Allow it to sit for half an hour before washing it off with water.
- Follow with a moisturizing lotion to prevent dryness.
- Repeat this process twice a day for about two months.
Other Natural Remedies for Keloids
- Aloe vera: Known for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera may help reduce and lighten keloid scars. Apply fresh aloe vera gel to the cleaned wound surface.
- Onion: Onions possess antibacterial properties that may help with keloid scars. Dab onion juice on the surface of wounds using a clean washcloth.
- Rosewater and sandalwood: Rosewater has skin-regenerating properties, while sandalwood can help heal and tone the skin. A paste made of sandalwood powder and rosewater may help ease keloid scars with continuous application.
- Apple cider vinegar: Massaging apple cider vinegar on healed wound sites may prevent the formation of keloids and lighten existing ones. Apply it at least four times a day.
- Lavender oil: With its skin-regenerating properties, lavender oil can be applied to keloid scars. Massaging a small amount of the oil, or a mixture of it with olive oil, can soften the scar site.
- Honey: As a humectant, honey can prevent skin dryness in the scar area, keeping the underlying tissues soft. Massaging the area after application may enhance blood circulation and reduce collagen growth.
- Tea tree oil: Swabbing the scar site with tea tree oil mixed with coconut or olive oil twice a day may yield results in a few weeks. Use a cotton ball with four drops of tea tree oil and apply preferably in the morning and evening.
Considerations and Precautions
While these natural remedies have been practiced for ages, consulting a cosmetic surgeon before trying them is wise. Lemon juice’s high acidity can irritate the skin, especially in sensitive areas or on sensitive skin types. Natural methods might reduce the severity of keloid scars, but they might not completely erase them.