Scar Removal Creams, Do they WORK?

I am on a continuous journey to find something that will remove, or reduce my scarring without having to actually get them surgically removed. I have many scars, for many different reasons. Because of my sensitive skin, even the smallest injuries (like papercuts or bumping into things) tend to leave permanent marks on my skin. Additionally, I have acnes scars, sunspots, and chicken pox scars, scrape scars, etc. Understandably, you would see it makes me very self-conscious about my skin. These are not just limited to my face, but exist on my arms, legs and body. I try to cover up as much as I can when I leave the house, and am concerned that my clumsy self will bump into something only to cause more scarring. Thus, I have attempted three different remedies specifically targeted towards my scar. I tried to mederma ointment, which was a complete failure. I can admit, that I did not use it routinely--only because I hated the texture, and how it would feel greasy on the skin. I would hesitate to get dressed after putting on the treatment, in fear it would rub off on my clothes. After giving up on it, and beginning to accept my scars, I discovered a new formula from Mederma, which was a cream. This was intriguing, because, I felt it would sink into my skin and I would not have to worry about the transfer to my clothes.

The Mederma Cream with SPF 30 Treatment was about five dollars more expensive than the previous formula. However, like expected, it did not rub off. I found it to be a bit drying on the skin, but it was nice that it provided a fairly high SPF, considering the areas with scars are more sensitive than other areas on your body. I also purchased the scar zone scar removing cream, which was conveniently on the shelf next to the mederma.

The  Scar Zone Topical Scar Diminishing Cream was about 5 bucks cheaper than the mederma, while promising the same effects. I tried both simulatneously, on different areas. I used the scar zone mainly for my face, and mederma mainly on my body. I have been religiously incorporating this into my routine, at least twice daily (though 3-4 is recommended), and sometimes thrice, for over six months. I have completed a tube of the scar zone, and still have some reminents of the mederma. Both have similar textures: Creamy, white, hard to get out of the tube when you are nearing the end. I found both at Walmart, though they can be found at most drugstores ranging from $12-$20.

My conclusion? Don't waste your money. These are pretty costly, and also require a lot of time and effort (especially if you have many areas to apply it). You must maintain a routine of utilizing it everyday, even though you cannot see results immediately. After over half a year of use, I can say, I do think I notice very slight improvement. However, I also believe that I would have seen improvement even without the treatments, because, skin does heal over time (--mine just happens to take much longer). For recent scars, this may be a bit more effective. But, if you have something you really want or need to hide (or reduce), I would not recommend this at all. It is a big investment of your time and money, with minimal (if any) effects. I can however say, I did notice a bit more effectiveness with the scar zone than the mederma, which is ironic since they are priced the other way around. Additionally, it did not help with raised scars.

Review: Egyptian Magic.. Is it Magical?

I purchased this product about a year ago, after hearing so many youtubers rave about its healing effects. I anticipated it would give me the promising results of healthier skin. Some thoughts:

• can be found online or in stores like whole foods (check website for details)
• seems expensive at $30 for a tub, BUT I have used less than half a full year later-it will last you forever!
• wax-y texture, feels heavy on skin at first but after learning to use very small amounts, found it to be less noticeable on the skin
• mostly use for bedtime, because the oils within the product will make you feel like you are frying if you go outdoors with it on
• Has a peculiar scent, but nothing terrible
• no adverse effects
• good to use on the lips as a lip treatment
• avoid using too much product because even after a full night's sleep, you will feel the product in the morning if you overuse
• cheap packaging

I depotted mine (into the pictured pink container) because I did not want to bring the big bulky tub with me when I moved. For some reason, once removed from its original tub, it lost its wax-like texture, and turned into a more creamy consistency. Even though it remains in an air-tight container, it seems stays "melted," which is good in the respect that it is now easier to pick up. As for the results, I cannot say I noticed anything special. I attempted using it on scars to see if they would disappear--it did nothing for this purpose. I continue to use it for my face at night, but I cannot say its effects are distinguishable from any other moisturizer. The only difference is in the way it feels. Whereas other moisturizers sink into your skin and feel weightless over time, the egyptian magic can be felt hours after application. It feels like vaseline on the skin, and for the most part is similar to vaseline in many respects. It did not fade acne marks, or reduce fine lines. When worn on the lips, it feels very moisturizing. I can say I have not really "broken out" after beginning to use this product. I still get occasional pimples, but nothing major. However, I cannot solely credit this product, as I have been using many others in conjunction with it. It has not had any negative effects on my skin, but it has not necessarily been a "magical" experience either. For those with very dry skin, I would recommend this because it would probably work a lot better for drier skin types.

Sun Protection--an overview

I’m sure you are already aware of the importance of sunscreen, especially in the summer season. I became obsessed with sunscreen after moving to the sunshine state. I used to not worry so much about it, because I was so fair that I thought I could use a tan. However, constant sun exposure causes uneven tans in areas, redness, dark spots, brings out blemishes, and damages skin. After undergoing these adverse affects, I realized I needed to protect my skin everyday, regardless of the weather. Here is a review on the different ones I’ve tried (in order of worst to best)




PART I Neutrogena: UltraSheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 70 with helioplex

If you check youtube, you can find many reviews on the Neutrogena sunblock. These are easy to find, and affordable. You can even get good bargain deals at Costco. I got a pack of two plus a small travel size at Costco last year. Being my first time purchasing a facial sun screen, I did not know it was possible to really have preferences, or dislike a product—I quickly learned this lesson, and my tubes remain largely unused. Unfortunately, most Neutrogena skincare products do not suit my sensitive skin. I heard that others have also had this problem with the product being too harsh/strong. When I tried to wear this on my face, it stung and hurt immediately, and had to thoroughly wash it off. I then gave it to my mom, not wanting to waste the product. We both have combination skin, but hers is much less sensitive, though more mature. However, the product did not seem to work for her either. She broke out (which she never gets), and the product just sat on her face and did not sink it (even though it is a chemical sunscreen), leaving an unattractive flaky white cast. The product itself is very thick in consistency and tends to dry out the skin over time. It also has the particular sunscreen scent, which I am not a fan of and is somewhat sticky (but it wears off with time).


So after my mom and I both attempted to like the product but failed, I resorted to using it for my body instead of my face. Since the skin on my body is less sensitive than my face, it does not present problems of stinging. It is used on days I know I will be outside for long periods of time. I mix it with moisturizer to thin it out and make it easier to blend. This process also cancels out the drying effects. It has a high SPF so it is good for this purpose, but I would not purchase it specifically to use it on my body (basically, I am only using it because I already own it).



PART II AVEENO: Active Naturals Continuous Protection Sunblock Lotion Face SPF 70

After the failure with Neutrogena, I went back to the drugstore in search of another sun block. I purchased Aveeno, which also provides high SPF coverage. I found Aveeno is less drying than Neutrogena, yet still gives a nice matte finish. I initially liked this product, as it felt much less severe than the Neutrogena. However, after about a week, I started to notice similar drying effects and stinging, though to a lesser degree. Luckily, I only bought one tube of this, and since it is not too bad, I like to use it for my hands and neck area. I also bring this one around with me for touch ups and emergencies.



PART III SHISEIDO: Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion For Face/Body

Still in the need for a facial sun protectant, I abandoned the drugstore and went to a Shiseido counter. I told the lady working there my history of problems with sunblocks, and she literally snickered at me. She assured me that the high quality of the Shiseido sunblocks would not cause such troubles. So, trusting her judgment, I hesitatingly purchased my first high end sunscreen. I was at first unhappy with the high price I had to pay and questioned whether it was worth the mark up. After I tried the sunblock, my opinion totally changed. I loved it the first day, the second, and a year later I still love it.



The Shiseido sunscreen has a very light and thin consistency, and once applied it is totally invisible and feels nonexistent. Yet, it works perfectly as a face primer (under makeup or alone) because it makes your skin feel so smooth and flawless. It does not irritate my skin, even when applied over acne. Because the consistency is so thin, it is a bit tough to control getting out of the bottle at first, but after a bit of adjustment, you can easily avoid wasting product. It is unscented (from what I can tell) and requires the smallest amount to apply all over the face. It gives a nice matte finish, and leaves the skin looking natural, without the white cast. I got mine in SPF 55 which was the highest at the time I purchased it, but a year later when I went to the shiseido store with my mom, they had even higher SPF available. I recommended this sunscreen to my mom (who never spends money on makeup or skincare), and she gave in (because the store was offering promotions with nice free gifts) and bought it in SPF 60. Although she initially regretted purchasing the expensive item, she quickly changed her mind when she used it the next day. It is perfect for her combination and aging skin, and she now does not leave the house without application.

That day at the store, we also discovered the Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Cream SPF 55 PA+++, which is basically the same thing for different skin types. It is a thicker consistency (like the name suggests, it is more creamy), yet works just as well. I purchased one in SPF 55 because I knew I would love it. Although it does require a tiny bit more effort to blend out, I still enjoy it as well.



The downside to Shiseido products is the high price, but I think it is definitely worth it. It is worth investing in a product, where the purpose is not to cover up your skin, but maintain healthy skin, body, and lifestyle. Secondly, although the bottle suggests it could be used for both face and body, I personally reserve it strictly for my face/neck because of the higher price (I would run out very quick if I were to apply it all over my body).



All three brands claim to be waterproof, and the Shiseido Lotion has the most product at 100ml. Both the Neutrogena and Aveeno have 88ml, and are oil free, while the Shiseido Cream contains 50ml. I definitely recommend the Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion!