As big fans of this all-natural ingredient, we’ve already explained the many research-backed benefits of this healing plant. But when it comes to acne scars, the research and expert insight are less clear. In fact, there’s no conclusive research on acne scars and aloe vera specifically. What we do know is that aloe does possess certain characteristics that are beneficial for helping to heal the skin—and therefore, one can infer, acne scars. Here, we’re breaking down the science and expert-backed healing properties of aloe vera in regards to acne scars. Otherwise known as dark spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation often shows up in the wake of pimples, pustules, and cystic breakouts. Aloesin, a compound naturally found in the aloe plant, has been shown in certain studies to help lighten things up. In one study specifically, when aloe was applied onto skin four times per day for two weeks, aloesin was shown to effectively fade post-acne hyperpigmentation1. Another study showed that topical application of aloesin can directly inhibit hyperpigmented skin from producing more melanin, which is the natural pigment in skin that causes dark spots to form. If your hyperpigmentation is severe, combining aloe vera—or aloe-vera-infused skin care products—with a prescribed topical (like a retinoid or retinol alternative) may be your best bet in lightening things up. In other words: If your dark spots are extra stubborn, don’t rely on aloe vera alone. Rather, combine it with another dermatologist-recommended (or prescribed) topical for double the scar-fading power. Per one study, topical aloe vera gel was found to be even more effective at suppressing skin inflammation than hydrocortisone cream3 (a steroid that’s commonly prescribed to quell a range of inflammatory skin issues). This is crucial because, as plenty of research has demonstrated, inflammation occurs at every stage of acne development4, and in all types of acne. Bottom line: Taming inflammation is key to maintaining overall skin health—and keeping acne, and its subsequent aftermath, at bay. So, while aloe vera may not be enough to stave off chronic acne on its own, when used in tandem with other acne-fighting products, it can help boost their effectiveness—thanks to its natural level of salicylic acids. While this doesn’t pertain to acne scars specifically, having less acne inevitably means less future acne scarring. Aloe vera naturally stimulates collagen and elastin production in the skin, and it’s been shown to help increase skin elasticity6 and decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles8. Along these lines, topical use of aloe vera has also been shown to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks9. In other words, through promoting increased collagen and elastin production in the skin, aloe vera encourages skin to replenish and heal itself from the inside out—a necessary component of healing and naturally fading acne scars.
