Topical vitamin E usually doesn't improve scars and can cause dermatitis. Essential oils have limited human evidence and may irritate; avoid applying them to open wounds. Start with gentle cleansing, keep wounds moist with petroleum jelly, protect from sun, and consider silicone gel/sheets for scar prevention. See a dermatologist for thick or problematic scars.

Why scars bother us

A scar can trigger a memory - good or bad - and when it's visible many people want it reduced. Over the years a number of home remedies have circulated, but some common approaches are ineffective or can cause harm. This guide updates what we know now and gives safer, evidence-based options.

What doesn't work (and what can hurt)

For years people recommended rubbing vitamin E into scars. Clinical studies and dermatology reviews show topical vitamin E usually does not improve scar appearance and can cause contact dermatitis in some users. Avoid using concentrated vitamin E expecting dramatic improvement.

Essential oils such as lavender, helichrysum, or tea tree are often touted for preventing scars on new wounds. Laboratory and animal studies have suggested antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory effects for some oils, but high-quality human trials are limited. Critically, essential oils can irritate skin or trigger allergic reactions - and you should not apply undiluted oils to open wounds.

Safer first steps for new wounds

  • Clean the wound gently with mild soap and water or sterile saline. Do not use undiluted essential oils or harsh antiseptics on open cuts.
  • Keep the wound moist and protected. A thin layer of petroleum jelly (e.g., petrolatum) with a nonstick dressing helps healing and reduces scar risk.
  • Change dressings as directed and watch for signs of infection (increasing redness, pus, fever).
  • Protect healing skin from sun exposure; UV can darken scars. Use physical protection and broad-spectrum sunscreen once the wound has closed.

Evidence-based scar treatments

  • Silicone gel sheets or topical silicone gel: Among noninvasive options, silicone has the strongest clinical support to prevent and improve hypertrophic scarring and keloids when used consistently.
  • Pressure therapy, corticosteroid injections, laser treatments, microneedling, and surgical revision: These are used for thicker scars or keloids and are performed by specialists.

Practical advice

If a scar concerns you, start with basic wound care, sun protection, and a silicone product for established scars. For painful, rapidly growing, or cosmetically troubling scars - especially keloids - consult a dermatologist or plastic surgeon for options tailored to your scar type.

A final note on DIY recipes

Recipes that call for adding essential oils to water and applying them to wounds are common online, but they carry risks of irritation, inconsistent dosing, and infection. Talk with a clinician before trying them, especially if you have allergies or take prescription medications.

FAQs about Heal Scars

Does vitamin E help heal or reduce scars?
No. Clinical studies generally show topical vitamin E does not improve scar appearance and can cause contact dermatitis in some people.
Can I use lavender or tea tree oil on a fresh cut to prevent scarring?
You should avoid applying essential oils to open wounds. Evidence for their benefit in humans is limited, and they can irritate or cause allergic reactions.
What should I do immediately after getting a minor cut to reduce scarring?
Clean the wound with mild soap and water or saline, keep it moist with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, cover with a sterile dressing, and protect the area from sun once healed.
What treatments are supported by evidence to improve established scars?
Silicone gel or sheets have the strongest noninvasive evidence. For hypertrophic scars or keloids, options include corticosteroid injections, laser, microneedling, or surgical revision under specialist care.
When should I see a doctor about a scar?
See a clinician if a wound looks infected, a scar is growing or painful, or if you're concerned about cosmetic outcomes - especially for keloids or scars over joints.