Soothe Skin and Boost Confidence: 11 Best Essential Oil for Scars

In this blog post, we’ll provide recommendations on the best essential oil for scars, how to tap on their natural properties, and what to look out for when buying. 

Many people turn to natural remedies to alleviate the effects of scarring. Essential oils have long been used to help reduce the appearance of scars and speed up healing time. But, with so many different essential oil products on the market, how do you know which one is best for your particular situation? 

We understand how important it is to find the best essential oils for scars, so we’ve done the research and compiled a list of our top picks. Our selection includes products designed specifically for scar treatment, ranging from the ever popular lavender oil to lesser known copaiba oil — all of which provide natural relief, are therapeutic grade, and do not contain any harsh chemicals or ingredients.

We’ll also give you some pointers on how to use these essential oils for scars at the end of this guide. So, if you’re ready to look into some natural scar treatments, keep reading!

How do essential oils work on scars

Most people nowadays turn to essential oils in managing the appearance of their scars and improve skin health. Essential oils help in regenerating skin cells in damaged skin, resulting in less visible to total removal of scars. Some essential oils have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help in the healing process of wounds. It helps balance skin tone and reducing redness and inflammation.

11 Best Essential Oils for Scars

Depending on the type of scar, such as hypertrophic or acne scars, different remedies may be necessary. Here we will discuss the most beneficial essential oils for scar healing and their healing properties to assist your skin in its journey back to health.

Helichrysum Oil: Gya Labs Pure Helichrysum Oil

Helichrysum oil is known for its anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help in overall skin health. This pure helichrysum oil from Gya Labs is best for bumps and bruises and it also helps soothe the skin. Apply topically with your carrier oil of choice.

Pros:

• Great for bruises
• Great addition to skin care

Cons:

• Can make you sun-sensitive
• Mixed reviews on the packaging

Reviews:

• “Good quality oil, but wished the plug inside the bottle wasn’t so long so you could use more of the oil for a longer period of time.” Mal
• “So far so good!! Used to make a moisturizing body butter to get my skin glowing throughout the winter months” Amazon Customer

Lavender Oil: Majestic Pure Lavender Essential Oil

This lavender essential oil from Majestic Pure is best known for its multiple purposes, as lavender oil also has antibiotic, antiseptic and antioxidant properties.  It is helpful with hypertrophic scars as it can help with stimulating cell and tissue healing. Use with your preferred carrier oil for topical application. 

Pros:

• Versatile
• Great for aromatherapy, massages

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on the scent

Reviews

• “Great oil to use for massage for stroke patients”, Amazon Customer
• “I decided to give this a try because of the price and reviews. You can not tell the difference. Absolutely wonderful lavender scent. It is not overpowering. I would definitely buy this brand again!”, Amazon Customer
• “The price was good but I was expecting a pleasant lavender scent but keep in mind, I’m a beginner with essential oils.” Imel G.

Carrot Seed Oil: Gya Labs Carrot Seed Essential Oil

Apparently, carrots are not just good for your eyes. Carrot seed oil, in particular, has antifungal and antibacterial properties which are beneficial for improving scars, especially older ones. Some people also use carrot oil to nourish and moisturize their hair, especially those with brittle hair. Mix this carrot seed oil from Gya Labs with bergamot oil a carrier oil like jojoba oil to enjoy the hydrating wash-off hair mask.

Pros:

• Can be used with other oils
• Works well with facial creams
• Affordable

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on the scent

Reviews:

• “I blend a few drops of this oil with a cream I use for bedtime and I can really tell the difference in the morning. My face always feels softer and so smooth afterwards.” S. Hill
• “I didn’t like the smell of the oil but I didn’t buy it for the smell, it’s fantastic for the facial skin. Fights fine lines and brightness up the skin too. It’s a great oil!” Edele Browne

Neroli Oil: Gya Labs Neroli Essential Oil

Neroli is a high-end essential oil that helps with the treatment of scars and other skin problems due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Though labeled as one of  the more expensive essential oils, the neroli oil from Gya Labs is a great option for those who wish to add this oil in their collection and skin care regimen but are on a budget.

Pros:

• Can be used with other oils
• Affordable

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on the strength of the scent

Reviews:

• “I have gotten patchouli and neroli from Gya. The scents are beautiful and pure. I just wish they lasted longer. I use them in homemade body products and diffusers, and I feel like I have to use an awful lot and frequently to get any scent, and dang, it’s expensive to use them like that. That said, they’re the best scents I’ve found” Darla G.

Copaiba Oil: UpNature Copaiba Essential Oil

Extracted from the resin of the Diesel Tree, there are studies that mention that copaiba oil is effective for the treatment of wounds and abnormal scars. Apply this copaiba oil from UpNature to not just manage scars, but to relieve pain as well.

Pros:

• Great for scars, relieves pain
• More affordable than other brands

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on the packaging

Reviews:

• “I have terrible bursitis in one of my hips and am unable to take any OTC painkillers other than aspirin as they send my blood pressure through the roof…Then a friend mentioned she was using Copaiba and it helps, so I decided to give it a try even though I had my doubts. Well, much to my surprise, it *does* work. I dilute it with olive oil in an old porcelain jar and every morning, I rub it into my hip and thigh, and unbelievably, no pain. I love the smell, too, and have begun using it on my hands and neck to great effect. It is worth the money, and I am very pleased to have finally found an effective pain reliever that has no side effects and smells really good.” Amazon Customer
• “This Copaiba oil greatly reduced the inflammation on my right knee. My knee had been hurting me off and on but started to get worse a couple of months ago. I don’t want to take OTC pain relievers so I ordered the Copaiba oil and added 18-21 drops to some lotion and massaged it onto my right knee- I felt relief almost immediately. It was truly a godsend; I hope it works to relieve pain and inflammation for everyone that uses it. I’m very grateful I found this oil.” Elvira M.

Geranium Oil: Cliganic Geranium Essential Oil

Geranium oil helps treat wounds and scars by reducing inflammation, encouraging new cell growth and can be a great addition to your skin care because it helps even out skin tone. Apply this organic geranium oil from Cliganic with your preferred carrier oil to enjoy an aromatic way of managing scars.

Pros:

• Can be used with other oils
• Wonderful scent
• Versatile, works great with diffuser

Cons:

• Use with caution if you have hypertension or are at risk of a cardiovascular disease

Reviews:

• “I really liked this scent, it’s very strong and very good quality! I bought the geranium, it will be perfect for my needs, thanks!” Gabrielle

Chamomile Oil: Gya Labs Roman Chamomile Essential Oil

Chamomile is widely known for its calming effects, as it is used for aromatherapy and is consumed as a beverage. But when used topically, chamomile oil helps in the reduction of swelling and redness of wounds and helps the skin as it scars. Pair this chamomile oil from Gya Labs with your preferred carrier oil: the most recommended being jojoba oil, to enjoy its benefits.

Pros:

• Can be used with other oils
• Versatile, works great with diffuser

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on the packaging
• Mixed reviews on the scent

Reviews

• “Seriously, this has helped my crows feet better than my expensive oil from a very well known company. I LOVE this. There is nothing to not love here. My husband loves the scent and I love the way my skin drinks this up, and how it responds afterwards. This is a Win-Win!” Amazon Customer
• “I’ve never used Roman Chamomile before so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I find the fragrance pleasant and consistent with the usual descriptions. I added this to rose hip seed oil for my face—it feels soothing and nourishing. I look forward to trying this in other recipes.” Catherine

Frankincense Oil: Handcraft Frankincense Essential Oil

Known for its healing, regenerating and repairing properties, the versatile frankincense oil helps the skin in many ways. It helps in the treatment of scars and can also tighten the skin, a must for most skin care regimens. Try this frankincense oil from Handcraft and enjoy not just its skin healing benefits, but its aromatherapeutic properties as well.

Pros:

• Can be used with other oils
• Great packaging
• Versatile

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on the scent
• Use with caution if you are taking blood thinners

Reviews:

• “I used this on my face. It’s softened the wrinkles and my skin”, Connie
• “My husband has marks on his skin. He is using it to see if it takes it away or lightens it”, Alice Levas

Tea Tree Oil: Cliganic Organic Tea Tree Essential Oil

Tea tree oil has many known uses, but it is well-known for its topical uses. It helps in the wound healing process  with its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Pair this tea tree oil from Cliganic with your preferred carrier oil to not just manage scars, but to enjoy other skin care benefits such as better nails and scalp.

Pros:

• Can be used with other oils
• Affordable
• Versatile
• USDA certified

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on packaging

Reviews

• “Use it daily on my toe nail (fungals take forever to heal). Keeps the nail and skin very moisturized, and it’s actually healing. This is the best deal I’ve seen on tea tree oil.” Amazon Customer
• “I’ve only gotten two things by Cliganic… the tea tree oil and jojoba oil. The tea tree oil is SPECTACULAR! I just love how soft and fragrant this oil is! I’ve used A LOT of different brands of tea tree oil over the last 10 years and I’ve never been able to use them straight from the bottle, except this one! It is really the gentlest one I’ve ever used!” Cyndee

Patchouli Oil: HIQILI Patchouli Essential Oil

Patchouli oil is known for its scar healing benefits: it helps to improve the appearance of scars. It also helps fight other skin ailments such as eczema and acne – a great skin care addition! Make it a part of your regimen today by getting this bottle from HIQILI, not only do you have more oil for the price of less, it is travel-friendly too, as it includes a travel-size bottle too.

Pros:

• Great scent
• Packaging is nice, comes with a travel bottle with dropper
• More value for money

Cons:

• Some reviews find that the scent is too strong for them

Reviews:

• “Lovely deep, rich patchouli scent. Generous supply. Sturdy glass eyedropper with stopper and dispenser included. Great product.” Amazon Customer
• “I absolutely love the scent of this oil. It’s just lovely, not overpowering as some patchouli can be.” Annmarie

Essential Oil Blend: Bio-Oil Skincare Body Oil

When one mentions “scar management”, one product automatically comes to mind: Bio-Oil. This tried and tested product has a great reputation for minimizing the appearance of scars, reducing stretch marks, easing irritated skin due to various reasons and many more. With a great blend of various oils such as lavender, sunflower seed and rosemary, just apply directly to the affected area to enjoy its healing and moisturizing benefits.

Pros:

• Can be applied directly, no need for a carrier oil
• Proven effective in improving the look of scars

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on scent
• Some reviews find the oil a little too greasy

Reviews:

• “I use this on my arms after showering. It goes on nicely, with a light scent and doesn’t feel greasy. I have very dry skin and between my cat scratches and gardening scrapes I’m hoping this helps with the scarring on my arms.” Cynthia Mitchell
• “Skeptical at first, but after using it for three months, I’m seeing successful neutralization of the wound scarring. The wound itself is still healing, but the healed tissue has all but disappeared. There is a faint outline at the perimeter that I expect may never completely go away, but I’m happy about the results so far.” Amazon Customer

4 Best Carrier Oils (BONUS)

When using essential oils topically, they are mixed with carrier oils so as to dilute them. Depending on who will use them, the following is recommended when diluting your essential oils:

For adults:

• 2.5 percent dilution: 15 drops essential oil per 6 teaspoons carrier oil
• 3 percent dilution: 20 drops essential oil per 6 teaspoons carrier oil
• 5 percent dilution: 30 drops essential oil per 6 teaspoons carrier oil
• 10 percent dilution: 60 drops essential oil per 6 teaspoons carrier oil

For children:

• 0.5 to 1 percent dilution: 3 to 6 drops essential oil per 6 teaspoons carrier oil

Mix your essential oil with your preferred carrier oil in a bottle and apply a few drops topically to the desired area. There is no need to wash it off. Keep applying consistently for several weeks or months to see results. Do not use essential oils on an open wound, and exercise caution if you have sensitive skin.

Rosehip seed oil: PURA D’OR Organic Rosehip Seed Oil

Rosehip essential oil is a popular oil that helps in improving the look of scars. Not only that, it is also a good addition to your facial skin care regimen as it also helps with acne and wrinkles too. Try this organic rosehip seed oil from Pura D’Or: the bigger bottle for the price of less is a godsend, and mix it with your preferred essential oils to reap maximum skin benefits.

Pros:

• Great reviews as facial moisturizer
• Affordable

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on scent
• Mixed reviews on the applicator

Reviews:

• “I am pleasantly surprised I like this product. As far as the improvement of wrinkles, I can’t really say it has done miracles. It is simple oil. I apply at night because it isn’t something I would apply under makeup. It absorbs slowly so overnight works best for me. It is an orange based color so when I apply it, my face looks a little orange but it has not tinted my face in any way. After absorbing, there is no fake tan look. I use it on my neck and chest as well. The bottle is a big size and dispenses with a pump. It should last me quite some time. One pump does my entire face, neck and chest. For the money, it is a bargain, as far as facial moisturizers are concerned. I highly recommend it.” Glenda Tate

Coconut oil: Majestic Pure Fractionated Coconut Oil

Coconuts are one of the plants that has many known uses and benefits. It is so versatile that based on a study, Indians incorporate it in food preparation and rituals. Coconut oil is one of these, and has been known as a natural moisturizer. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help with wounds and scars. With this coconut oil from Majestic Pure, use coconut oil with your preferred essential oils not just for skin benefits, but for your hair too!

Pros:

• Great for use for hair
• Versatile

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on scent
• Mixed reviews on applicator/pump

Reviews:

• “To anyone who likes to go natural as much as possible I came upon this and it is amazing. It can be used as a carrier oil for any scented oils you want to mix in as well as I have been using it on our dog because he had an allergy issue and it’s helping with the itching and healing while keeping it clean and soothed. Plus I have several issues with my hair and skin due to various things from surgeries I’ve had and allergies and chronic conditions and using this as a leave-in conditioner and lotion is a game changer. It doesn’t make my head itch (which of course I still put it on the ends and work it up and it does NOT take much.) but it doesn’t make me itchy because there aren’t all those additives and bc it’s not so thick and heavy. Plus it does NOT leave your skin feeling greasy which is something I’ve always had issue with with lotions cause I just can’t stand that feeling.” Amazon Customer
• “I like the oil, but it was my own fault I assumed it would be coconut scented. I still like the oil. It is not greasy, but does moisturize.” Susan Gossic

Jojoba oil: Cliganic Organic Jojoba Oil

Jojoba is a widely used carrier oil for various skin health purposes, as it is thought to be close to sebum, the body’s natural oil. It is best for those who are acne-prone, as it helps in oil regulation and is a powerful moisturizer. Combine this organic jojoba oil from Cliganic with the other essential oils in their line for your skin care needs. Jojoba oil fans can also purchase in bulk, so as to ensure their skin care stash will not go empty without hurting their wallet.

Pros:

• Economical since it can be bought in bulk
• Lightweight
• USDA certified organic

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on the quality of the dropper
• Some reviews find the bottles to be a too small

Reviews:

• “I use this as a daily moisturizer and it keeps my skin smooth and doesn’t make me break out!” Kay
• “Very impressed with the product. Lightweight and worked great.” Teri Robles

Almond oil: NOW Solutions Sweet Almond Oil

Almond oil has been known to soothe the skin and to also improve its complexion and tone. Its signature nutty smell is present on many skin care products. Though that may be the case, the scent of this almond oil from NOW Solutions will not conflict with the scent of your other essential oils. Mix and match away with your preferred oils for maximum skin care benefits.

Pros:

• Great moisturizer
• Versatile
• Non-GMO verified

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on the scent
• Mixed reviews on the quality of the bottle

Reviews:

• “Have only used it a few times, but it is light and it doesn’t smell. So far it is good.” Mary
• “This sweet almond oil is very moisturizing! I just put it on my hands and rubbed it in but I haven’t used it on my face yet. I’m planning to and I do have very sensitive skin. I’ve had a break out recently and I wanted to use it.” Mariah

Buying Guide to Essential Oils

With so many essential oil brands out there, picking the perfect set can be tricky, especially for first-time purchasers. Here are some things you need to take into consideration when you buy your essential oils:

• Know the difference between “essential oil” and “fragrance oil”, the latter is synthetic and does not have health benefits.
• Some sellers would use the term, “therapeutic grade” in listing their oils, thus implying it has health or aromatherapy benefits. There is no regulating body that gives these grades to essential oils, so still exercise caution when purchasing or using them.
• Another term that sellers use to describe their oils is “pure”. This ensures buyers that the oils they will be purchasing have no other oils or chemicals mixed into them. While this is somewhat assuring, the oils can still be distilled from poor crops, thus can impact its overall quality.
• Check the packaging that the oils will be coming into. Certain materials used in packaging, including the bottle they are placed into, can alter or contaminate the oil. Good oils are packaged in glass bottles, with either an orifice reducer or a separate pipette included for application. The color of the bottle matters too.
• For more experienced essential oil buyers, checking and comparing the prices of different essential oils of the same variety is good advice. Some oils cost more than others, and you should give oils sold at an unusually lower price a second thought.
• Overall, look for brands or sellers that give detailed descriptions of their products, and do not hesitate to send them a message if you have other questions.

Essential Oil Blend Recipes for Scars 

Here are some blends that mix well together which you can use for your scars and wound healing. Blend these in a 30ml glass bottle:

• Light scars: 3 drops Chamomile, 3 drops Frankincense, 2 drops Rosehip, 2 drops Clary Sage, 15ml Almond oil or any carrier oil of your choice; apply 5 drops of the blend to the affected area and use twice a day until results show.
• Darker scars: 8 drops Helichrysum, 8 drops Frankincense, 10 drops Geranium. Fill the rest of the space with a carrier oil of choice; apply at least 3 times a day until results show.
• Everyday: 6 drops Helichrysum, 4 drops Cedarwood, 3 drops Lavender, 2 drops Carrot seed, 15ml carrier oil of choice; apply small amounts to the affected area for about a month to see results.
• Older scars: Use rosehip oil as your carrier oil since it is proven to be more effective in improving the look of old scars.

Wrap Up

We reviewed the best essential oils for scars and skin damage in this article. We hope this guide has been useful in providing you with information about which essential oil is best suited for your needs. You can reduce scarring, heal skin damage, and promote a healthier, glowing complexion by using these natural remedies.

With these best essential oils at your disposal, you can begin your journey toward natural healing and increased confidence.

Thank you and blessed healing!

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