Supplements for Healing Scars
Scars are made of fibrous, connective tissue. They are created naturally by the body to heal damaged skin or organs, according to RightHealth.com. Since the body cannot re-create new skin or tissue, it develops a scar that serves as a protective barrier. Scars can leave ugly, obtrusive marks on your body, causing self-consciousness and insecurity. They usually fade over time, but depending on the size and depth, it may take years. Try these natural supplements to accelerate healing and reduce the appearance of scars on your skin.
A woman is holding a variety of pills in her hand. (Image: Ridofranz/iStock/Getty Images)Vitamin E
Vitamin E has been used for decades to heal wounded skin. It helps moisturize the affected skin and often reduces the appearance of scar tissue. It can be taken orally--400 to 800 mg--twice a day. Vitamin E can also be rubbed topically onto the affected area of the skin daily. However, test the skin first on your inner forearm to be sure you will not have a negative reaction, according to Herbs2000.com.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is deposited in the skin and is an essential part of protecting the skin from free radicals in the atmosphere and from damaged skin, such as scars. A potent antioxidant, vitamin C is a natural healer. It strengthens the immune system to allow full healing and restores the collagen in skin, causing scars to be flatter, smoother and less noticeable after a period of about a month. When combined with plant-based bioflavonoids, it increases the rate of tissue healing and aids in restoring wounded skin to health, according to Herbs2000.com. Naturally add more vitamin C to your diet and take a supplement of 500 to 1,000mg with bioflavonoids per day.
Zinc
Zinc is required in the body for collagen production, elastin synthesis and DNA repair, according to BioSkinBalm.com. Required for DNA duplication and cell division, zinc is essential in the process of removing damaged skin and creating scar tissue. Studies show that a skin injury site becomes saturated with zinc from the body within 90 minutes. Thus, zinc is critically important for the healing of the skin and for scar rejuvenation. Adult men and women should take a zinc supplement of about 7.5 to 9mg, according to BioSkinBalm.com. Do not overdose. Excess zinc is toxic and can cause nausea, vomiting and fever.
