Most people experience chickenpox at least once in their lifetime, as it is a highly contagious virus. Although it is a single occurring episode, it may lead to long-lasting effects, including chicken pox scars. Adults want to reduce chicken pox scars, especially when they affect areas on their faces. Chicken pox scar treatment takes time - but you can get rid of chicken pox scars faster and more effectively with the dermatologist-recommended best practices described in this article.

Quick facts about chicken pox scars in adults

Chicken pox is caused by primary infection with the varicella-zoster virus. It usually begins as itchy red papules progressing to vesicles on the stomach, back and face, and then spreading to other parts of the face. The blisters clear up within one to three weeks but may leave scars. The two major causes of chicken pox scars are due to two factors:

• Excessive scratching damages the skin and leaves deep wounds.

• Skin inflammation which leads to indented scars

As it's harder to heal a scar after many years have passed, the best time to treat a scar is immediately after it heals. The face, neck, and back are prominent areas of getting chickenpox scars. You can reduce the chance of permanent scarring by helping it heal properly and keeping bacteria out.

Is there a cure for chicken pox scars?

Some chicken pox scars fade out with time, but the stubborn ones persist and become permanent unless you seek some treatment. If you have residual scarring from chicken pox, a suitable chicken pox scar removal cream or other medical intervention can help smoothen the skin effectively. Coconut oil is among the oldest known natural cures, while aloe vera and Vitamin E are also available options.

Many treatments are available to help remove chickenpox scars. Home remedies may help people with mild scars, while medical treatments like excision and laser treatment are available for more severe cases. Let's take a more detailed look at some treatment plans for chicken pox-related scarring.

It's best to consult a dermatologist to understand the nature of your scarring and find the best solution to remove the chicken pox scars. You can get an online dermatologist consultation on Clinikally just a few clicks - with leading dermatologists who provide a personalised treatment plan according to your specific skin concern at your chosen time!

Home remedies to reduce chicken pox scars naturally

Natural treatment options like aloe vera, Vitamin E, jojoba oil, cocoa butter, argan oil, coconut oil, and shea butter help relieve chicken pox symptoms and prevent skin infections.  These home remedies are inexpensive and do not cause any discomfort or side effects.

Best chicken pox scar removal creams

Several topical agents are being used for scar improvements, such as topical silicone gel sheeting and tretinoin creams. Chicken pox scars are typically circular indentations of the skin that may also be discoloured. They look very similar to acne scars. Look for specific ingredients like Retinol and Glycolic acid, which are common in creams and ointments for acne scars. 

These products can help reduce the appearance of scars. However, these are ineffective on deep-pitted chicken pox scars.

Filler and last treatment for chicken pox scars

Depending on the nature and severity, it is easy to treat chicken pox scars with filler or laser treatments. Some of the most popular scar treatments for chickenpox include:

#1 Microneedling 

Microneedling is one of the safest treatments available for chickenpox scars. Skin micro needling accelerates the process of skin regeneration through the creation of several micro injuries, which emerge when deeply punctured with very thin needles.  

#2 Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion (MDA) is a minimally invasive epidermal resurfacing procedure where abrasive crystals are propelled against the skin under the control of a handheld vacuum system. The crystals cause gentle mechanical abrasion to the skin, which ultimately removes the stratum corneum layer of the epidermis and new epidermis forms with enhanced cosmesis. 

#3 Chemical peelings 

Chemical peeling is the process of applying chemicals to the skin to destroy the damaged outer layers, allowing the skin to recreate itself. 

#4 Dermal fillers

Dermal fillers involve filling the pockmarks with natural or synthetic ingredients to make them level with the surrounding skin.

#5 Lasers

This procedure involves using laser light to diminish the pigment in darkened scars and promote the production of new collagen in deep layers of skin to help smooth out depressions. 

#6 Excision and scar revision surgery

This procedure involves surgically removing the chicken pox scar with a special device. The skin around the punched area is stitched back together for softer skin.

#7 Combination treatments 

Depending on your history, your physician may recommend one or combination of the above treatments.

How to prevent chicken pox scars 

During a chickenpox outbreak, there are certain preventive measures that one can take to avoid the formation of scars

• Avoid the urge to scratch as much as possible and try to keep fingernails trimmed.

• Dab or pat a soothing lotion with calamine lotion or aloe vera onto the blisters.

• Topical silicone gel sheets reduces itching and discomfort and effective in scar management.

• Cool bath with added baking soda, uncooked oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal may help relieve itching.

• If you do scratch your blisters, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

All these must only be done after a dermatologist visit and avoid anti-itch medication without physician consultation. Besides dermatologist recommendations, you can also follow some healthy skincare tips for women and men so that your chicken pox scars will heal fast without leaving any marks.

Reduce chicken pox scars with the right steps!

Chicken pox scars can be challenging to treat, but with the right skin assessment and medical aesthetic guidance, you can dramatically reduce the appearance of chicken pox scars. There are many treatment options available but you can also consult a dermatologist on Clinikally before trying any product or treatment as they have the best experiences with scars and recommend the most suitable option based on your unique skin condition.