Having trouble with acne scars?  People of various ages have the same dilemma.  Acne, especially the cystic sort, is like a double-edged blade that cuts deep and leaves ice-pick scars that could be permanent.  Active acne is also painful.  In other words, acne is nothing but a tragic story about ruined skin.  However, just like in most stories, hope is not lost.  There are different ways to deal with acne and to kill the villain once and for all.  The time to heal varies from person to person.  Of course, we are all unique; our skin types are distinctive.  So we have to find the right skin care regimen that works for each of us.  If one doesn’t work for you, try another one—until you find your perfect match.

Here are the natural remedies for treating acne scars:

* Many people swear by vitamin E oil. Either they use the oil purchased from a health food store or break open a gel cap and apply the oil that way. A number of dermatologists warn, however, that topical vitamin E is unproved for this sort of treatment and has in fact been observed to worsen an acne scar.

* Other natural remedies that seem to be safer and more effective include camellia oil. This is a light cooking oil not commonly used in the States, pressed from the camellia seed. It is available either online or in natural food markets. Many users attest that massaging it gently into the scars twice a day will make acne scars vanish, although the results will not be noticeable for many months. After a year of solid use, however, a number of scars – even older, deeper scars – may disappear.

* Emu oil, derived from the Australian flightless bird, has also been known to help lighten acne scars. Anyone wanting to use these oils should be mindful, however, that they must go lightly and massage thoroughly, because oil can also promote acne. These oils are generally reported to be non-acne causing, but it’s good to be aware.

* Whole milk plain yogurt can also help lighten acne scars. A yogurt mask contains AHAs, so it is healing and stimulating, as well as lightening. For further lightening and treatment, mix fresh lemon juice into the mask. This gives your skin a blast of pure vitamin C and lemon juice is a natural bleach.

There are two ways to bleach acne scars; it could be natural or medical:

* Traditionally, what makes acne scars vanish is topical bleach, like prescription-strength hydroquinone. This has been very effective for a number of users, but people also report burning and even deeper reddening of the scar. Furthermore, it may be associated with more serious medical problems, although this is still under debate and study. If a dermatologist suggests you try it, ask to use a sample first to determine your skin’s initial response.

* Prescription-strength retinoic acid (Retin-A) has also been seen to make acne scars vanish, along with tackling the active acne itself. Be aware that when using Retin-A, you will look worse before you look better, because skin will initially be very red and dry. However, this should only last two weeks or so.

When all else fails, these are almost 100% sure to do the trick:

* Lactic and glycolic acid peels have been shown to improve the appearance of acne scars, as well as discourage further breakouts. They won’t be effective while you’re still having big active breakouts, but a series of peels once the acne is under some control will brighten skin and tighten pores.

* For severe scarring, laser treatment has been shown to be effective. This is expensive, but if you’ve tried everything else, it might be a way to go.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  Prevent acne scars by keeping your hands off your face! If they are really itchy and painful, try to relieve the discomfort by applying ice.  If you know which foods cause your breakouts, avoid them.  Wash your face at least twice a day but not more than that lest your skin becomes dry and more prone to pimples.