Vitamin E Oil for Scars

Is there any effective remedy for scars? This is one of the common beauty queries from those who have tried and tested a wide range of scar removal creams, lotions and home remedies. In fact, scars are considered impossible to remove, but, in some cases, they are removed surgically. However, people claim that some home remedies and other products are found to be effective in reducing and even removing scars. The most popular among them is vitamin E oil, which is also used in a number of scar removal creams and lotions.

The use of vitamin E oil for scars is now one of the controversial subjects, as there are various claims regarding the inefficacy of vitamin E oil in reducing and removing scars.

Vitamin E and Scars

Vitamin E oil has long been used for reducing scars. Vitamin E is a fat soluble antioxidant that is available as capsules or oil. It is said that vitamin E can penetrate skin layers and hinder the formation of free radicals that can negatively affect the healing process in wounds. In case of scars, vitamin E is believed to hinder the formation of collagen fibers, thereby lightening the scar tissue. Even though, most of the vitamin E users vouch for its effectiveness in reducing and removing scars, there is no scientific backing to prove the same. Various studies were conducted on the effectiveness of vitamin E oil for burn scars, but, the results were negative.

In one such venture, vitamin E was used in people, who have undergone reconstructive surgery for burns. The group was divided into two sections. Members of one section used vitamin E for reducing scars, while the others were given some other cream. Both sections did not show any significant difference, as far as the scars were concerned. There was no change in scar thickness, size or appearance, even after one year of using vitamin E oil for scars.

In another comparative study between two groups, one group was given a regular cream for applying on the scars and the other group was given a cream with vitamin E. Both the groups used their respective creams twice a day for three months (after undergoing surgery). After the stipulated period, it was noticed that there was no difference in scar appearance in both groups. The worst part was that the appearance of the scars worsened in those, who used vitamin E. Some of the vitamin E users contracted a skin rash too. This has been criticized on the ground that, only a small amount of vitamin E was used for this research and the application was done soon after the injury, which interrupted the healing.

How to Use Vitamin E to Reduce Scars

Now, you know that vitamin E is applied topically, in order to reduce scars. While application of pure vitamin E oil for scars and its effects are still debated, it is also claimed that vitamin E should not be used on wounds. However, there are so many people, who use vitamin E oil for acne scars and burn scars. Some people use it on wounds too. If you want to try this remedy, then, get the best vitamin E oil (capsule or oil). Before applying this oil, make sure to clean the area with an antibacterial soap and pat dry. Dab some vitamin E oil over the scar with the help of a cotton swab and keep it for at least 4 to 5 hours before washing. You have to use vitamin E on a daily basis for at least three to four months.

In short, it can be said that the topical application of vitamin E oil may not be effective in reducing or removing scars. It is also contended that in some people, scars are not as obvious as in others and this can be reason for them to believe it as the effect of vitamin E application. Another contention is that consumption of foods rich in vitamin E or vitamin E supplements may prove beneficial in reducing scars, rather than topical application.