13 Best Essential Oils For Scars To Reduce And Heal Them
Nourishing natural oils are here to soothe scarred skin and give you an even texture.
Oyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience,... read full bio
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... read full bio
Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy ... read full bio
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Looking for the best essential oils for scars? We have just what you need. Essential oils have made a difference on our skincare, hair care, and health since ancient times, and now we use them as an ingredient in moisturizers and body oils. The blend of these oils with carriers heal scar tissues and evens out your skin tone. It works by regenerating collagen tissues and attending to the damaged cells. Antifungal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties seal the skin against further damage. Here are the 13 highest-rated essential oils to keep your skin scar-free.
In This Article
13 Best Essential Oils For Healing Scars
Helichrysum Essential Oils
Helichrysum italicum essential oil has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiseptic, and antioxidative properties that heal the skin (1). A laboratory study showed that H. italicum exhibits anti-inflammatory action that may heal skin inflammation (2). The products rich in H. italicum are mentioned below:
1. Best Anti-Inflammatory:Essence-Lux Helichrysum Therapeutic Grade Essential Oil
The Essence-Lux Helichrysum Therapeutic Grade Essential Oil provides a pure, natural aroma. The oil can be applied topically to reduce inflammation. It is gentle and non-toxic. Reviews on e-commerce platforms have suggested that a few drops in the diffuser, shower, or bath can provide a luxurious aromatherapy experience.
- Pure and natural
- Anti-inflammatory
- Provides therapeutic-grade relaxation
- Long-lasting
- Fragrance could be too mild
StyleCraze Trivia2. Best For Youthful Radiance:Immortelle Living Helichrysum Italicum Essential Oil
The Immortelle Living Essential oil is among the more popular aromatherapy oils that rejuvenate the skin and heal scars. It works best when applied topically with any carrier oil. It is ethically sourced and heals skin, masks the signs of aging, and offers a youthful radiance. Mix it with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oils and use. You may also add it to face creams, lotions, or serums.
- Pure and natural
- Hand-harvested
- Pesticide-free
- Eco-friendly
- Heals skin
- Boosts mood too
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3. Best Versatile:Majestic Pure Cosmeceuticals Helichrysum Essential Oil
The Majestic Pure Cosmeceuticals Therapeutic-Grade Essential Oil is made with pure, natural, steam-distilled Helichrysum italicum. It is a non-toxic, unfiltered essential oil that is a pale yellow to red. It has a warm, slightly honey-like, rich, and buttery aroma and can be used as an aromatherapy massage for a luxurious experience. It blends with rose, clary sage, geranium, lavender, or other citrus oils. Reviewers on e-commerce websites have lauded the essential oil for reducing aging signs and moisturizing the skin.
- Pure and natural
- Free from additives
- Non-toxic
- Unfiltered and undiluted
- Rich, buttery aroma
- Blurs aging signs
- Moisturizes skin
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Lavender Essential Oils
The soothing aroma of lavender oil uplifts your mood. When topically applied, it helps heal acne scars. The lavender essential oil has many therapeutic and biological benefits (3). It has anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and antibacterial properties.
A study in the Journal of Biomedical Central Complementary Medicine and Therapies showed that topical application of lavender essential oil promotes collagen synthesis and promotes wound healing in rats (4).
Another 2016 study showed that topical application of lavender ointment may enhance wound healing by 98% and repair skin tissue for rapid recovery (5).
4. Best Moisturizing:Cliganic Lavender Essential Oil
The Cliganic Lavender Essential Oil is often used in aromatherapy for its calming effect. The oil can also prevent scarring. It is made of 100% pure, natural lavender flower with no dilution or filtration. This therapeutic-grade lavender essential oil can be used in aromatherapy massage and skin-healing. One can also make a DIY face or hair moisturizer using it. The scarring treatment oil also helps reduce anxiety.
- USDA-certified organic lavender oil
- 100% pure and natural
- No added fragrances or additives
- Alcohol-free
- Unfiltered oil
- Non-GMO certified
- 100% vegan
- Perfect for DIY recipes
- Provides relief from pain
- May smell like pine that some may not like
Quick tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 5,098 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
5. Best Non-GMO:Plant Therapy Lavender Essential Oil
The Plant Therapy Lavender Essential Oil helps calm the mind, body, and soul. This high-quality, affordable oil, when applied topically, promotes collagen synthesis and heals wounds or acne scars. The 100% pure Lavendula angustifolia at a dilution rate of 2-5% with a carrier oil also helps blur fine lines and wrinkles. Skin care reviewers with extremely dry lips have noted that the formula is a boon to chapped lips. It even helps stimulate hair growth and reduces dandruff.
- 100% natural and pure oil
- Non-GMO
- USDA-organic certified
- Kid-safe
- Cruelty-free
- Calming and relaxing
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"I use the Plant Therapy Lavender Essential Oil daily in my night routine. In my skin care, I use one to two drops of it in my moisturizer due to its potent formula. I also use it in a diffuser and for a relaxing bath."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 2,529 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
6. Best Antibacterial:Maple Holistics Lavender Essential Oil
The Maple Holistics Lavender Essential Oil boasts many aromatherapy and beauty benefits. This therapeutic-grade essential oil is loaded with vitamins that nourish the skin and stimulate hair growth. The expert-recommended oil also boosts circulation, promotes better focus, and improves sleep. The antibacterial properties help fight acne and acne scars, reduce minor irritations, and relieve muscle tension. This hypoallergenic formula moisturizes the skin, and soothes minor cuts and burns. It is a chemical- and paraben-free formula.
- Relieves stress
- Hypoallergenic
- Tames hair frizz
- Safe and effective
- 100% natural
- Gentle on the skin
- Undiluted and unfiltered
- Cruelty-free
- Chemical-free
- Paraben-free
- Antibacterial properties
- May not smell like pure lavender
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 11,504 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
Geranium Essential Oils
The geranium essential oil has numerous benefits. It helps heal acne, scars, rashes, eczema, fungal infections, etc (3). The anti-inflammatory properties of geranium oil also help treat eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis (6). Besides the antibacterial properties, the topical application of the geranium oil also heals skin and fights against skin infections.
7. Best Kid-Friendly:Plant Therapy Geranium Egyptian Essential Oil
The Plant Therapy Geranium Egyptian Essential Oil is a magical remedy to ease tension and stress. It is extracted from 100% certified fresh, natural, pure Geranium plant. Topical application of the oil blended with a carrier oil blurs acne scars and burn scars, and rejuvenates the skin. This results-driven, high-quality essential oil is also kid-friendly. Its sweet rose fragrance boosts your mood and eases tension. It is also a popular DIY ingredient in skincare products.
- Pure and original
- Free from additives
- Enhances mood
- USDA-certified organic
- Non-GMO
- Cruelty-free
- Kid-safe
- Cost-effective
- May not smell original
Tea Tree Oils
Tea tree oil is a well-known antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory essential oil with antioxidative properties. It also accelerates the wound healing process (7). The anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil work best on hypertrophic scars. These thickened, raised scars are often developed due to severe injury. They are characterized by an excessive synthesis of collagen that tries to mend the damage.
A 2015 study showed that topical application of nanocapsules and nanoemulsions containing tea tree oil help treat inflammation and accelerate wound healing (8).
8. Best Aromatherapy Massage Oil:Maple Holistics Tea Tree Essential Oil
The Maple Holistics Tea Tree Essential Oil has nourishing and cleansing benefits for the scalp, skin, and the senses. The purifying essential oil is steam-distilled from the botanical extract of Melaleuca alternifolia. The antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties of tea tree essential oil help fade scars and heal wounds, cuts, and burns with just a few applications.
Massaging the oil on the scalp also helps reduce the appearance of dandruff. This essential oil for raised scar has a decent camphor fragrance to boost one’s mood.
- Undiluted
- Cruelty-free
- Therapeutic-grade oil
- 100% pure and natural
- Contains cleansing and purifying properties
- An aromatherapy massage oil
- Strong smell
9. Best For The Immune System:Healing Solutions Tea Tree Essential Oil
The Healing Solutions Tea Tree Essential Oil comes with a camphoraceous aroma. It acts as an antibacterial, antiviral, and antimicrobial ingredient. It also assists respiratory issues and strengthens the immune system. Massaging with this essential oil for injury scar helps uplift one’s mood. Topical application of the oil blurs acne scars.
- 100% organic
- Extracted from a pure, natural source
- Used in aromatherapy massage
- Non-GMO
- Assured quality
- May smell like gasoline
"This tea tree essential oil has a very pleasant scent that does not overwhelm the senses. It can be mixed with a facial oil or cream to target scars and acne. It even works well in jewelry diffusers and last throughout the day."
10. Best For Disinfecting:Beyond Fuji Organic Tea Tree Oil
The Beyond Fuji Organic Tea Tree Oil is an excellent essential oil to purify the air and environment. When diffused, it promotes calmness and relaxation. The topical application offers relief from acne scars and other skin problems. The natural disinfecting properties of this scar fading oil can offer sanitizing and home disinfecting solutions.
- USDA-certified organic
- Naturally sourced
- Purifies indoor air
- Provides relief from acne inflammation
- Can be used for household disinfection
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"I use this tea tree oil for everything, from soothing ear itching to combating nail fungus. I also use it in my skin care routine daily to target scars and hyperpigmentation."
Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense oil has many benefits. It is primarily used in aromatherapy. This fragrant oil is extracted from the Boswellia sacra tree or Boswellia carterii. This essential oil helps soothe the skin, blurs scars, evens out skin tone, and hinders bacterial growth. Frankincense essential oil exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that provide relief from acne, dermatitis, and fungal and bacterial infections (3).
11. Best Chemical- And Pesticide-Free:Healing Solutions Frankincense Essential Oil
The Healing Solutions Frankincense Essential Oil is a high-quality, therapeutic-grade essential oil. It has a slightly spicy or fruity aroma that rejuvenates the mind and body. It can be blended with any carrier oil like bergamot, cedarwood, lemongrass, or lavender oils to heal acne or wound scars.
- Non-GMO
- Pure and natural
- Assured quality testing
- FDA-registered
- Chemical- and pesticide-free
- Comes in a plastic bottle that may degrade oil quality
12. Best Affordable:Plant Therapy Organic Frankincense Carteri Organic Essential Oil
The Plant Therapy Frankincense Organic Essential Oil is used for relaxing the body and the mind. It is extracted from the original Boswellia carteri plant and is of 100% certified therapeutic-grade quality. It heals skin and also boosts immunity. The topical application of the oil, along with a carrier oil, offers relief from scars and eczema and also helps soothe body aches.
- USDA-organic
- Non-GMO
- Made of pure, natural ingredients
- Boosts immune system
- Cruelty-free
- Kid-safe
- Affordable
- Undiluted and unfiltered
- Not a soothing aroma
13. Best Refreshing Aroma:Rocky Mountain Oils Sacred Frankincense Essential Oil
The Rocky Mountain Oils Sacred Frankincense Essential Oil is a medium-strength oil. It is a rich, warm, slightly spicy, sweet, and woody aromatic oil that is meant for massage therapy. It helps rejuvenate mood, removes scars, and tightens the skin. Add 1 to 3 drops of essential oil per ½ a teaspoon of carrier oil to improve skin appearance.
- 100% natural and pure
- No filtration, no dilution
- Refreshing aroma
- Balance emotions and eases stress
- A natural household cleaner
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These are the 13 best effective essential oils for scar healing and pain relief. Using essential oils may not lead to immediate results. One needs to be consistent and patient to witness visible results.
There is a specific way of using essential oils on the skin. You cannot use them like regular oils. We have discussed the same in the following section.
How To Use Essential Oils For Treating Scars
Essential oils should be diluted before applying to the skin. It is also recommended to conduct a patch test before committing to a product. The oils that are used to dilute essential oils are called carrier oils. You may choose a carrier oil based on your preferences. Here are the most popular options to choose from:
- Jojoba oil (best for oily skin)
- Olive oil
- Coconut oil (avoid if you have oily and acne-prone skin)
- Sweet almond oil (suits all skin types)
- Avocado oil
- Rosehip seed oil (has excellent skin-healing properties)
- Hazelnut oil
- Apricot kernel oil
To use essential oils on your skin,
- Pick any carrier oil.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of the carrier oil with 2 to 3 drops of the essential oil.
- Combine well and massage on the affected area.
- Do not wash it immediately. Let the mixture stay for at least an hour before washing.
- Apply the oil on the affected area 2 to 3 times a day.
- For best results, continue using it for at least 2 to 3 months.
While buying essential oils, make sure you are choosing 100% therapeutic-grade oils. Such oils do not contain any additives and are highly effective.
Also, there are certain precautions you need to take before or while using essential oils.
Precautions To Take While Using Essential Oils
Essential oils may cause minor side effects if you are not careful while using them. If you are allergic to an essential oil, you may experience
- Redness
- Irritation
- Rashes
- Itching
- Any other allergic reaction
Keep these tips in mind before using essential oils:
- Do a patch test before using the oil on your skin. Take a drop of the diluted oil and rub it on your skin. Let it stay for 24 hours. If your skin doesn’t react to it, you can use it. However, if irritation occurs, discontinue use.
- If you have an inflammatory skin issue or an allergic skin condition, such as eczema, dermatitis, or rosacea, consult a doctor before using essential oils.
- If you are pregnant or lactating, avoid using essential oils. Check with your doctor before using any oil.
- If you are undergoing treatment for a skin issue or any other medical condition, or are on any medication, check with your doctor before using essential oils.
You must be curious to know whether essential oils can really help reduce scars. The next section can help you understand.
Can Essential Oils Help Reduce Scars?
A scar usually forms when an injury affects the upper layer of the skin, also called the dermis. Our body repairs the tissue, regenerates it, and synthesizes collagen to overcome the damage. This results in scarring (9). Essential oils are anti-inflammatory. They repair the wound and help minimize scar formation by healing the scar tissue.
The best way to prevent scarring is by starting treatment immediately. This increases the chances of healing. Though fading old scars is tough, the topical application of essential oils can reduce further damage.
The following buying guide can help you make a better purchase decision.
Choosing The Right Essential Oil – A Buying Guide
- Choose an essential oil that is 100% natural, pure, and does not contain blends of other vegetable oils.
- Choose a brand that mentions both the Latin name and the common name of the oil on the label, along with the country of origin. This marks the product’s authenticity.
- The oil must be packaged in a dark amber or dark blue glass bottle. Packaging the oil in a lighter bottle or a plastic bottle may damage the oil as it can expose the oil to unfiltered light.
- Choose an oil that has a pure, unfiltered fragrance.
The Bottom Line
Scars are nearly unavoidable, even when you take good care of your wounds. But you can minimize the appearance of the scars or gradually eliminate them by using the right essential oil. The anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties in the essential oils help heal scars and scar tissue. In addition, these scar healing oils can also regenerate the skin and make it youthful, promoting scar tissue regeneration. Some essential oils also reduce aging signs, while some hydrate the skin, and some you can use as therapeutic massage. For example, the Majestic Pure Cosmeceuticals Helichrysum Essential Oil reduces signs of aging, while the Plant Therapy Lavender Essential Oil is great for chapped lips and dandruff, and the Healing Solutions Frankincense Essential Oil helps respiratory issues and strengthens immunity. The best essential oils are made of skin-friendly ingredients only.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Oyendrila Kanjilal is a certified skincare coach who is always on the lookout for the best skincare products on the market. She has tried out a wide variety of essential oils available in the market and gone through reviews online to create this list of the best essential oils for scars. These oils contain antimicrobial properties and anti-inflammatory properties that prevent your skin from further damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which vitamins are good for healing scars?
Vitamins C and E are good for healing scars.
How do you reduce old scars?
Reducing old scars needs long-term treatment, and essential oils alone may not be enough. Consult a dermatologist.
Can coconut oil remove old scars?
Coconut oil, when mixed with any essential oil, can help reduce old scars. But it may not fade a scar permanently.
Is aloe vera good for healing scars?
Yes, aloe vera is a versatile plant that is effective in reducing scars. It achieves this by moisturizing the skin.
How do you tell if a scar is still healing?
When a scar heals, it appears pink and stretched. You may understand that a scar is still healing if you feel some tightness around the area and the scar itches from time to time.
How long does it take for a scar to fade?
Scars usually fade in three to four months. Intense scars may take over a year to fade.
When can you put oil on a scar?
Put oil on a scar as soon as you spot one. Essential oils for improving scar appearance also help regenerate skin cells to minimize damage.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
- Sala, Araceli et al. “Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Helichrysum italicum.” The Journal of pharmacy and pharmacology vol. 54,3 (2002): 365-71. doi:10.1211/0022357021778600
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11902802/ - Evaluation of in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of Helichrysum italicum (Roth) G. Don essential oil, Bouzid Djihane and Zerroug Mouhamed Mihoub, Scholar Research Library.
http://dspace.univ-setif.dz:8888/jspui/bitstream/123456789/2583/1/BOUZID%20DJIHANE%202.pdf - Orchard, Ané, and Sandy van Vuuren. “Commercial Essential Oils as Potential Antimicrobials to Treat Skin Diseases.” Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM vol. 2017 (2017): 4517971. doi:10.1155/2017/4517971
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5435909/ - Mori, Hiroko-Miyuki et al. “Wound healing potential of lavender oil by acceleration of granulation and wound contraction through induction of TGF-β in a rat model.” BMC complementary and alternative medicine vol. 16 144. 26 May. 2016, doi:10.1186/s12906-016-1128-7
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4880962/ - Ben Djemaa, Ferdaous Ghrab et al. “Antioxidant and wound healing activity of Lavandula aspic L. ointment.” Journal of tissue viability vol. 25,4 (2016): 193-200. doi:10.1016/j.jtv.2016.10.002
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27769632/ - Boukhatem, Mohamed Nadjib et al. “Rose geranium essential oil as a source of new and safe anti-inflammatory drugs.” The Libyan journal of medicine vol. 8 22520. 7 Oct. 2013, doi:10.3402/ljm.v8i0.22520
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3793238/ - Pazyar, Nader et al. “A review of applications of tea tree oil in dermatology.” International journal of dermatology vol. 52,7 (2013): 784-90. doi:10.1111/j.1365-4632.2012.05654.x
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22998411/ - Flores, Fernanda C et al. “Hydrogels Containing Nanocapsules and Nanoemulsions of Tea Tree Oil Provide Antiedematogenic Effect and Improved Skin Wound Healing.” Journal of nanoscience and nanotechnology vol. 15,1 (2015): 800-9. doi:10.1166/jnn.2015.9176
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26328444/ - Bayat, A et al. “Skin scarring.” BMJ (Clinical research ed.) vol. 326,7380 (2003): 88-92. doi:10.1136/bmj.326.7380.88
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1125033/
