While scars are a minor problem for most people, scars in obvious places can be embarrassing. While the best way to heal scars is to prevent scars, there are some ways to heal scars naturally. Find out more about how to soften scars using natural remedies such as aloe vera and Vitamin E.
Why do we Scar?
Surprisingly scarring isn't completely understood. In general, scars seem to be a part of the natural healing process or the skin's way of 
closing a wound quickly and strongly to prevent an infection. Because the wound is closing quickly, collagen forms and a scar happens. Babies and small children rarely scar from minor cuts, whereas the older a person is, the higher the chances of scarring from even minor injuries.
Prevent Scars
The easiest way to heal scars is to prevent them. Since it's possible for every single cut to scar, it's also important to take care of cuts appropriately to prevent scars. In general, don't pick at scabs, keep cuts dry and clean, get stitches if the cut is big or deep, and make sure you eat a healthy diet.
Use Essential Oils
Essential oils such as neroli, lavendar, bergamont or chamomile can all help scars heal naturally. Blend a few drops of neroli with one other mentioned essential oils. Blend the essential oils into about a cup of a carrier oil such as wheatgerm oil and massage into the scar for several weeks to soften it.
Try Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a wonderful skin conditioner. While the scar is still fresh, apply a cream containing aloe vera or the juice itself directly to the scar, working it in gently to soften and loosen it. It works particularly well for facial scars like acne. Unfortunately, aloe vera doesn't work well on older scars, though it may soften them a little.
Use Vitamin E
Like aloe vera, vitamin E is a skin conditioner. Apply the oil to the affected area, massaging it into the scar to loosen and soften the scar. Over the course of several weeks, you'll notice a significant improvement in the appearance of the scar. Vitamin E has also been known to help prevent and reduce stretch marks.
Try Castor Oil
In his book Healing with Whole Foods: Asian Traditions and Modern Medicine, Paul Pitchford recommends using castor oil to soften and remove scars. He recommends soaking a piece of flannel cloth with castor oil and placing it over the scar for an hour or two a couple of times a day.
References
Dye, Jane. Aromatherapy for Women and Children. CW Daniel Company Limited, 1992.
Pitchford, Paul. Healing with Whole Foods: Asian Traditions and Modern Medicine, North Atlantic Books, 2002
Picture credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/blueroan2000/2311743648/
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