Scars can be badges of experience, but you might have some you’d rather not display. Browse our carefully chosen recommendations for the best scar creams, review expert tips, and find the option that matches your needs.
A quick look at the best scar creams
- Best overall: | Skip to review
- Best for superficial scars: | Skip to review
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- Best for after surgery: | Skip to review
- Best for whole body: | Skip to review
- Best for laser burns: | Skip to review
- Best for kids: | Skip to review
- Best organic scar cream: | Skip to review
- Best scar cream with SPF 35: | Skip to review
Scarring is a normal outcome of healing. You trip, you get hurt, and a scar can follow. Some marks are harder to live with because of the story behind them. Whether you view your scar as a mark of resilience or prefer to conceal it, you may want to reduce its visibility, even if it has already faded somewhat.
Not every scar improves with home remedies, but for those that do, we scoured the market to identify the most effective nonprescription scar creams and treatments. Continue reading for an expert Q&A, details on scar types, and guidance on when to consult a physician about a scar.
Healthline’s picks for the best scar creams
Comparison of the best scar creams
–PriceSizeKey ingredientsSkin typeMederma Advanced Scar Gel$26.99 0.7 oz• allantoin• onion bulb extractallDerma-E Scar Gel$19.952 oz• allantoin
• allicin• oily
• combination
• dry
• normalScarAway Silicone Scar Gel$20.890.35 ozsiliconeall, especially sensitive skinCica-Care Gel Sheet$17.865 by 6 insiliconeallHoneydew Blemish Cream$8.964 ozvitamin E• combination
• dry
• normal
• oily
• acne proneCimeosil Scar and Laser Gel$35.955 gramssiliconeallMederma for Kids$19.990.7 ozallantoinallEarth Mama Organic Skin & Scar Balm$24.991 oz. • Olea europaea (olive) fruit oil • beeswaxallDerma E Scar Cream Sun Protectant SPF 35$22.501.5 oz.• panthenol (pro-vitamin B-5)
• zinc oxide
• allantoin all
How we chose the best scar creams
We examined the active components in popular formulas and reviewed the scientific literature on their effectiveness. We also gathered feedback from people who have used scar gels and creams to determine what actually produces results.
Selected items are from reputable brands and include ingredients that may lessen the visibility of scars.
Our team checked each product against business and medical standards.
Types of scarring
Scarring is the body’s mechanism for repairing and replacing damaged skin. Scars vary in appearance and require different care. Below are common scar types:
- Fine-line scars: Shallow wounds, like small cuts or scrapes, produce fine-line scars. These typically fade a lot over time and can become barely noticeable without intervention. While some scars lack melanin, . Fine-line scars can be more apparent in individuals who don’t protect their skin from the sun.
- Atrophic scars: Also called pitted scars, atrophic scarring looks like small depressions or pits. Severe acne or chickenpox lesions picked or scratched can lead to this type of scar. They often don’t respond well to home remedies, but procedures like chemical peels or soft-tissue fillers may help reduce their appearance.
- Keloid scars: These are dense, raised clusters of scar tissue with irregular edges. Keloids can form after any skin injury and may appear red or darker depending on skin tone. They result from excess collagen produced after a wound and can extend beyond the original injury. Sometimes they don’t become noticeable until months later. Treatments can include steroid injections and cryotherapy.
- Hypertrophic scars: Similar to keloids, hypertrophic scars are raised but stay confined to the borders of the original wound. They can take months to fully form and may fade over years without treatment, though corticosteroid injections or at-home measures like silicone sheets can help.
How to choose a scar cream
- Ask a doctor: Consult a physician, such as a dermatologist, to identify the most appropriate treatment for your scar — it can save time and money. They can provide personalized advice and answer any concerns.
- Look for proven ingredients: Select products that include ingredients shown to help reduce scar visibility, such as:
- silicone
- onion extract
- aloe vera
- green tea
- Read the full ingredient list: Check all ingredients, including inactive ones, to ensure you’re not exposed to substances you react to.
- Know the maker: Research the manufacturer. If background information is hard to find beyond retailer listings, that could be concerning. Buy from trusted companies. If claims seem exaggerated, be skeptical.
- Be price savvy: Effective scar products exist at many price points; the priciest option isn’t necessarily the most effective for your skin.
Consider your scar
Scar tissue lacks sweat glands but may have small blood vessels and often looks thicker than surrounding skin, even though it’s actually weaker.
Aging reduces collagen and fat in skin, making it more vulnerable to injuries that leave scars and slowing healing. The longer a wound remains open, the higher the risk of infection, which can worsen scarring.
Scars develop uniquely for each person, so certain ingredients may be more effective for certain skin types or scar varieties. Some marks fade naturally over time without intervention.
Many scars, however, respond to OTC products like those profiled here. Besides topical treatments, protecting a scar from sun exposure will help it fade faster.
Be aware that scars can take months or years to show significant improvement, and many do not disappear entirely even when barely noticeable.
Best ingredients for remedying scars
Certain components are more helpful for scar healing or diminishing their appearance.
Research indicates that ingredients such as and can be beneficial. Other ingredients, like and , may have positive effects as well, though the evidence is less robust. They can still be useful for soothing and calming the skin.
When evaluating scar creams, pay attention to the ingredients below and always review the complete list to avoid allergens.
If you’re seeking stronger treatment than OTC options, consult a dermatologist.
Silicone
Silicone is the most common ingredient in scar treatments. While some people may get mild irritation, true silicone allergies are rare. Silicone sheets and gels can help reduce the look of minor scars.
A found that topical silicone was useful in preventing postoperative scars. The study noted that silicone sheets or gel significantly lessened scar height and pigmentation.
Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)
EGCG is an antioxidant from green tea. Being water-soluble, it doesn’t adhere to skin or scar tissue by itself.
As part of topical formulas, EGCG has been shown to reduce inflammation and support various stages of wound healing, including tissue remodeling — the cleanup of inflammatory cells as a wound heals and scar tissue develops.
EGCG also helps limit excess collagen and fibrous tissue buildup that leads to keloid and hypertrophic scars.
How to use scar cream
- Read the label: Follow product directions. Some creams are meant for once-daily use; applying them more often won’t speed healing.
- Start with clean skin: Wash and thoroughly dry the area before applying cream or a silicone sheet.
- Use in combination: Ask a doctor about complementary approaches, like massage or compression garments, which can enhance results.
- Don’t use too soon: Wounds need time to close. Applying scar treatment before the skin is fully healed can worsen the problem.
- Be patient and consistent: Use as directed for the recommended period. Noticeable improvement may take 2 to 6 months or longer.
How well do scar creams work?
Scars differ in severity. Mild scars often fade substantially on their own.
Deeper or more severe scars may only improve with medical procedures such as:
- cryosurgery
- laser therapy
- injections
- radiation
For scars of intermediate severity, at-home products, including scar creams, can be helpful.
The American Academy of Dermatology advises consulting a physician before using OTC scar products so they can assess whether it’s suitable for your scar type.
Sometimes a doctor may suggest waiting up to a year for a scar to mature before attempting treatment; in other cases, earlier intervention is appropriate.
When to see a doctor about scarring
If scars bother you—especially in visible places like the face—speak to a dermatologist about removal options.
Some skin cancers can look like scars. If a mark appears without a preceding injury, consult a dermatologist.
Seek medical care for any wound or scar that might be infected. Signs of infection include:
- redness
- swelling
- drainage
- pain, discomfort, or itching
Frequently asked questions about scar creams
How does scar cream work?
Scar creams typically function by:
- hydrating the outer skin layer
- forming a protective barrier that retains moisture
- supporting regeneration of connective tissue cells beneath the scar
These effects can be achieved with ingredients like medical-grade silicone. Some formulas also include brightening agents to reduce discoloration.
How long does it take for scar cream to work?
Timing depends on:
- the scar type
- how old the scar is
- the person’s age
Product instructions will indicate the recommended duration of use, which can range from weeks to several months.
What’s the best way to heal a scar?
Discuss the optimal approach with a doctor, since many factors influence healing, including scar type, age of the scar, and your age.
If medical procedures aren’t an option, OTC scar creams can be paired with methods like:
- compression garments
- skin massage
- regular moisturization
What else can I do for scars?
If a scar is deep and unresponsive to topical care after months, surgical revision, laser treatments, or injectables may be considered to reduce its appearance.
How do I avoid scarring?
Clean new wounds promptly, keep them moist and covered to prevent infection, limit movement of the injured area, and avoid picking at scabs.
What are the negative effects of scar cream?
Some users may experience:
- burning sensations
- irritation
- itching
- redness
What is the best time to use scar cream?
Starting treatment early in the healing process often yields better results, but never apply scar cream to an open or unhealed wound. Begin once the skin has fully closed.
What scar cream do plastic surgeons recommend?
No single brand is universally endorsed by plastic surgeons. Recommendations are tailored to the individual and the wound. Many suggested products contain silicone as a primary ingredient.
Takeaway
Scar creams can be effective for certain scar types.
OTC scar-reduction products with the strongest clinical support typically include silicone and EGCG, a green tea extract.
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