What’s worse than a nightmare? Acne scars. Most of us get goosebumps the very moment we notice that little bump called acne on our face. The problem is not only acne but also the permanent scar it leaves behind. Acne scars are a bit more stubborn and can last from anywhere between one to three months.While most scars fade away on their own after months, there are certain home remedies to hasten the process and avoid further hyperpigmentation.

Most people think over the counter products that are the best way to treat acne; wrong. Over the counter products usually contain harmful chemicals and toxins that can actually do more damage to your skin or even do nothing at all. Treating your acne using natural ingredients is the best option.

For those who desire a safe alternative to get rid of the scars left behind from pimples and acne, try some of these clever natural solutions.

1. Aloe Vera

This works wonders for acne scars. Aloe Vera is a potent source of vitamins which can help to heal skin and fade scars. It is gentle, so you won’t have to worry about further damaging or irritating the skin. It not only soothes damaged skin, but it can help regenerate the damaged tissues by boosting the healing process. Aloe Vera can be applied directly to the affected areas. Leave it for about half an hour and then wash it off. Apply Aloe Vera gel twice a day to see quick results.

2. Lemon Juice

Another great treatment for acne scars is lemon juice. It naturally has bleaching properties and promotes clear skin. Vitamin C in lemon helps rebuilding collagen and the citric acid helps to remove dead cells. It can be used in various ways; mix lemon juice with water and apply it on the scars. Leave it on for at least two hours and then wash it off with lukewarm water. Do this once a day for two to three weeks; you will notice your scars will start fading gradually. You may also mix honey with lemon juice to make it more effective in reducing the acne scars.

3. Baking Soda

Baking soda is a common household item which has literally hundreds of uses, including the ability to help heal scars. It’s a great and easy remedy for removing acne scars through its exfoliating effects. It is composed of sodium bicarbonate crystals which gently exfoliates skin when used as a cleansing scrub. The grains of soda with water remove the dead skin off your face. Mix a little amount of water with baking soda to make a paste and apply to wet skin, then let sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Hold a warm compress on it for even better results.

4. Raw Tomato Slices

Rubbing tomato slices on scars is one of the easiest and effective natural ways to make your facial scars diminish. It is full of vitamin A and carotene that not only provides the red color but is also an antioxidant compound that can heal damaged tissues and promote the healthy regrowth of cells. Tomato to combat acne scars can be as simple as slicing it up and placing it over the scarred area daily. You may also mash up the pulp and place it on the face or other areas you are treating. Keep the tomato on your face for up to an hour before washing it off with warm water.

5. Egg White

Egg contains a great amount of protein and amino acid which helps tighten the pores naturally to prevent new breakouts while it lightens the scarred skin. Apply egg whites on the scars using a cotton ball and leave it on overnight to get the best result. If you don’t want to leave it overnight, put the foam on the affected area and let it dry on your skin and then rinse away gently with moderately warm water.