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Acne is already bad enough. A pimple might stick around for three to seven days, but the lingering, pesky scar that it leaves behind can last for what feels like an eternity. Enter scar creams: the savior that promises to rescue your skin from the ghosts of acne, burns, and bruises past. After all, who wants to spend weeks layering concealer and foundation to bury the stubborn reminder of your initial breakout?
Managing the aftercare of inflammation-induced scarring can be tricky, but there’s a vast and diverse range of effective scar creams that can work wonders depending on your unique needs. “Finding the right product really depends on your skin type and the type of scar,” says Dr. Naana Boakye, a New Jersey-based board-certified dermatologist. Oily and acne-prone skin should seek scar creams and serums that won’t clog pores. “Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic gels or serums with niacinamide, retinol, or bakuchiol.” On the other hand, those with dry skin that threatens to flake all day like myself should seek out ultra-hydrating products that will lock in moisture. “Go for creamy, barrier-supportive products rich in glycerin, shea butter, and ceramides,” explains Dr. Boakye. “Hydration is key.”
Best Scar Creams
Uncovering the best scar cream is no easy feat—trust me, I know. After years of sampling many products for myself—featuring everything from niacinamide to retinol and kojic acid as key ingredients—I’ve ascertained that some remedy my scars better than others. To spare you from the same harrowing search I embarked on while hunting for the best scar creams to achieve that spotless, glass-skin effect, I’ve compiled my research. By analyzing the treasures in my beauty cabinet, poring over consumer reviews, and consulting a dermatologist, I’ve curated a list of the top eight scar creams to help repair dark spots and smooth out bumpy, damaged skin.
Pros
- Layerable, fragrance-free, paraben-free formula
Cons
- Reviewers say this products takes a long time to show results
Dr. Boakye suggests SkinCeuticals’ Discoloration Defense Serum as a “solid, gentle option for uneven skin tone.” Niacinamide and tranexamic acid, some of this product’s key ingredients, are great for brightening dull skin and disrupting the process that causes dark spots.
Size: 1 fl oz
Key ingredients: Niacinamide, tranexamic acid, kojic acid
Dermstore rating: 4.3/5 stars
A Dermstore reviewer says: “I have been using Discoloration Defense for a few years now, and it will forever be a part of my skin care routine. I used to have sun spots on my cheeks, but this product has made them almost totally disappear. I only put it where I had the spots and it does a great job of keeping them from reoccurring. Love it!”
Pros
- Strong, potent formula that requires a small amount of product to be used
Cons
- Contains witch hazel, which can irritate some types of skin
If you’re completely over messing around with your stubborn acne scars and want an ultra-potent formula that will tackle unwanted discoloration at full force, look no further than this scar gel from PCA Skin. Its main ingredients, kojic and azelaic acid, fade dark spots and smooth cratered skin. This bottle might be rather pricey, but since it’s a spot treatment, a little goes a long way. Reviewers say this bottle lasts them far longer than expected.
Size: 1 fl oz
Key ingredients: Kojic acid, azelaic acid, phenylethyl acid
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve been using this scar gel for a few weeks, and I’m impressed with the results. It’s been gentle on my skin and has noticeably improved the appearance of my scars. The gel is easy to apply and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. I love that it doesn’t have a strong scent, which is a bonus for me.”
Pros
- Produces relatively quick results, in as little as two weeks
Cons
- Some reviewers don’t like the smell
Topicals’ Faded serum has developed somewhat of a cult following on social media, for valid reasons—it works quickly and well. This serum’s incredibly powerful formula—including all-star ingredients like cica, azelaic acid, and green tea extract—that targets enlarged pores, acne, and dark spots alike.
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Key ingredients: Centella Asiatica (cica), niacinamide, kojic acid, licorice root
Amazon rating: 4.1/5 star
An ELLE Editor says: “My battle with acne is something I no longer dread, but welcome as an opportunity to educate myself on the most effective products and what realistic results look like. That said, sign me up as president of the Topicals Faded fan club because I’ve breezed through about three tubes of this formula—it’s that good. While it’s slightly disliked for its strong scent (an unscented version is now available), it’s just as praised for fading dark spots left behind by blemishes. I can wholeheartedly say that this formula is the perfect soldier to fight those newer dark spots and scars, leaving my skin smoother and clearer than how I started.”—Nerisha Penrose, Beauty Commerce Editor
Pros
- Affordable and potent product
Cons
- This serum has a yellow tint, which may be noticeable on fair skin tones
Retinoid products stimulate collagen, which is great for atrophic or textured scars. This serum by The Ordinary contains retinal specifically, which can be faster-acting than retinol. This small but mighty tube combats not only dark spots, but also fine lines and wrinkles.
Size: 0.5 fl oz
Key ingredients: Retinaldehyde, synthetic oat analogues
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE Editor says: “If I had to choose one holy grail beauty product, this would be my current pick. Every time I dot my face with this serum in the evening, I wake up to glowing, smooth skin. Not only does it make my dark spots less apparent, but it also makes the rest of my skin look more vibrant. I’ve always been a huge fan of The Ordinary and the simplicity of their products, but this is by far my favorite.”—Moriah Polk, Contributing Fashion & Luxury Commerce Editor
Pros
- Weightless formula that can work well with other products in your beauty routine
Cons
- Pricier option on this list
Sometimes, scars aren’t just a mix of unpleasant colors—they can also be painfully aggravated beneath the discolored skin. For that, I suggest grabbing a bottle of the Beauty Booster Face Serum by Trish McEvoy. This serum contains key ingredients like panthenol and cica, which Dr. Boakye suggests for treating scars. These powerhouse ingredients work to soothe irritation, promote wound healing, and reduce inflammation.
Size: 1 fl oz
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Centella Asiatica extract (cica), panthenol
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An ELLE Editor says: “Deep in throes of my skin discoloration woes, I found this sleek little bottle with magic inside. It took some time to see results, but after around two weeks, the appearance of my particularly irritated scars diminished significantly. No longer were they raised and tender to the touch. This product is one of my favorites to use in the morning because my skin soaks it up quickly without leaving any residue.”—Moriah Polk
Pros
- Combats both acne scarring and current blemishes
Cons
- Reviewers note that this gel dries out their skin
If you don’t have access to prescription retinoids, Dr. Boakye suggests trying Differin Gel. Its key ingredient, Adapalene, evens the skin tone, minimizes pores in addition, and interrupts the underlying trigger of blemishes. “These help stimulate collagen and refine texture,” she explains, referring to both Differin and prescription retinoids.
Size: 0.5 fl oz
Key ingredients: Adapalene
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I was a little hesitant to try this because I was afraid it would be a waste of money and that it wouldn’t work, but it does! I’ve been dealing with a bit of texture on my cheeks and this has helped smooth it out in just three weeks. Highly recommend and will purchase again if I need to. It is very drying so using a good hydrating moisturizer is a must.”
Pros
- Fast-acting, affordable option for silicone scar gel
Cons
- Not as pure or biocompatible as medical-grade silicone products
Dr. Boakye recommends silicone-based serum to “flatten and soften raised scars by sealing in moisture and regulating collagen production.” This particular gel from Murasaki Beauty boasts a 100% silicone content, and numerous user reviews laud its ability to dissolve fully into the skin without leaving a greasy residue.
Size: 1.06 fl oz
Key ingredients: Silicone
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve been using this scar gel for a few weeks, and I’m impressed with the results. It’s been gentle on my skin and has noticeably improved the appearance of my scars. The gel is easy to apply and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. I love that it doesn’t have a strong scent, which is a bonus for me. The packaging is convenient, with a precise nozzle that makes it easy to apply just the right amount. A little goes a long way, so I think it’s definitely worth the price.”
Pros
- Non-comedogenic yet hydrating oil
Cons
- Contains fragrance, which may irritate sensitive skin
If you’re trying to combat both dry skin and discoloration, consider grabbing a bottle of this skin care oil. It’s packed to the brim with a profusion of vitamins and oils that help improve the appearance of your overall skin tone.
Size: 4.2 fl oz
Key ingredients: Purcellin oil, vitamin E, vitamin A, chamomile oil
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I originally got this for a small scar, but it quickly became one of those ‘why didn’t I use this sooner?’ products. I now use it on my elbows, legs, stretch marks, and even my face—yes, it’s that gentle. It absorbs beautifully, never feels greasy, and leaves my skin soft and noticeably more even-toned. I’ve also seen dry patches fade and my skin just looks more nourished overall."
Pros
- Great all-around choice for a wide variety of scar types
Cons
- Contains fragrance, which may irritate the skin
Mederma’s Advanced Scar Gel is the Goldilocks of scar creams– best for scars both young and old, as a result of acne, stitches, burns and more. Its key ingredients—allantonin and cepalin—are great for reducing inflammation and promoting skin recovery.
Size: 1.76 fl oz
Key ingredients: Allantoin, cepalin
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “In a moment of reckless beautification, I once scalded myself with my curling iron, leaving behind a massive, mortifying burn mark in the middle of my forehead. After using the Advanced Scar Gel for only two weeks, I could already see improvement in the burn mark. There was no scabbing or dry, crusty skin. Eventually, my burn mark was able to fade completely– no discoloration, no bumpiness just smooth, clear skin.”—Moriah Polk
Pros
- Contains moisturizing ingredients for particularly dry skin
- Hypoallergenic and free of fragrance and alcohol
Cons
- Those looking for a lightweight serum may find this formula too heavy
Hyperpigmentation scars are a common type of scar that people experience. “They’re often what people worry about most after a breakout or injury,” says Dr. Boakye. “They show up as dark spots and are especially common in melanin-rich skin. They can linger long after the original wound has healed.” For treating these scars, Dr. Boakye recommended a product from her line—the Cocoa Barrier Cream. This scar cream boasts tons of different hydrating, anti-aging, and brightening ingredients that restore the skin’s health and improve overall radiance.
Size: 76 fl oz
Key ingredients: Niacinamide, bakuchiol, licorice extract, cocoa extract
Dr. Naana Beauty rating: 5/5 stars
A Dr. Naana Beauty reviewer says: “I love this all-in-one facial moisturizer from Dr. Naana Beauty. I’ve been waiting for a facial moisturizer with all of the nourishing ingredients included in this product to keep my skin bright and moisturized without any strong, unnatural fragrance. I will be repurchasing again and again.”
Pros
- Targets fine lines in addition to discoloration
Cons
- Some reviewers dislike the smell
In search of a serum that keeps those bothersome dark spots from forming at all? Try this vitamin C elixir by Dr. Dennis Gross, which incorporates L-ascorbic acid, the pure form of Vitamin C, to prevent hyperpigmentation.
Size: 1 fl oz
Key ingredients: L-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), lactic acid, licorice root
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 star
An ELLE Editor says: “I’m a known vitamin C skeptic, only finding reprieve for my sometimes dull, scar-filled face in a few formulas here and there before claiming defeat. However, Dr. Dennis Gross’s offerings have been a constant in my skin care routine, from the peeling pads to this vitamin C serum. I’m sure I’m supposed to love it for its star vitamin, but I’m truly a fan of its supporting character, lactic acid. Together, these powerhouses visibly brighten and encourage cell renewal for a youthful glow.”—Nerisha Penrose
Why do scars form?
Scars form after the skin barrier is damaged, and the body produces collagen as a natural part of its restoration process. “When the skin is injured, the body goes into repair mode. Initially, it produces Type III collagen, which is softer and more flexible. As the healing process progresses, Type I collagen gradually takes over. This type is denser and gives the scar its structure and long-term durability,” Dr. Boakye explains.
What are the main types of scars?
If your acne leaves behind pesky dark spots, you’re likely dealing with hyperpigmented scars. “These aren’t true scars in the structural sense,” explains Dr. Boakye. Still, people often worry about these scars after breakouts because they leave behind lasting discoloration.
Noticed scars that are raised and firm? You might have hypertrophic scars or keloids. “[Hypertrophic scars] are raised, firm scars that stay within the boundaries of the injury. They’re caused by excess Type III collagen,” Dr. Boakye says. Meanwhile, keloids are not limited to the area of damaged skin. “Keloids go beyond the original injury and tend to be more common in melanin-rich skin,” she explains. “They can be uncomfortable, itchy, and are typically more persistent.”
If your scars are more like craters or divots, you’re likely dealing with atrophic scars. “These occur due to a loss of collagen, and often need stimulation to help rebuild structure.” Atrophic scars come in a variety of shapes, including ice pick, boxcar, and rolling scars.
What ingredients should you look for and avoid?
Dr. Boakye recommends looking for products with vitamin C and niacinamide to tackle discoloration. Struggling with textured scars? She recommends silicone and retinol to help with collagen production regulation. Her top picks for anti-inflammatory ingredients include Centella Asiatica (cica) and panthenol which work to flatten and soften raised scars by locking in moisture and balancing collagen levels.
To help your skin recover from scars, Dr. Boakye advises steering clear of harsh scrubs and high-strength exfoliating acids like alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) and beta-hydroxy acid (BHA). She also recommends avoiding products with fragrance or alcohol, as they can irritate the skin. Hydroquinone should only be used if specifically recommended by your dermatologist.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Naana Boakye, MD is a New Jersey-based board-certified dermatologist and owner of Bergden Dermatology.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty?
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, contributing fashion and luxury commerce editor Moriah Polk consulted a board certified dermatologist and delved into consumer reviews to select the best scar creams for different skin types.
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