Healing Scars Naturally: How Plant Oils Can Support Skin Repair

Whether it's from surgery, an accident, or a long-healed blemish, scars can leave a lasting impact – both physically and emotionally. While time plays a role in how scars fade, nature offers powerful allies in the form of plant oils. Certain oils have been shown to support the skin’s regenerative processes, improve the appearance of scars, and restore suppleness to damaged tissue

How Scarring Works

When the skin is hurt, your body starts to heal and activates a complex healing process that involves inflammation, tissue formation, and remodelling. During this phase, collagen is produced to “patch” the wound, but often in a more haphazard structure, leading to visible scarring. Supportive skincare during this time can help improve collagen alignment, reduce inflammation, and maintain hydration, all of which contribute to better healing outcomes.

Why Oils Support Scar Healing

Plant oils are rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that work in harmony with the skin. They can:

• Help regulate inflammation during the healing process.

• Strengthen and repair the skin barrier.

• Deliver antioxidants that protect fragile new tissue.

• Improve hydration and flexibility of scar tissue, making it softer and less visible over time.

Plant Oils That Support Skin Repair

Rosehip Oil

Rosehip oil is one of the most researched oils for scar care. Rich in vitamin A (retinoic acid) and essential fatty acids, it supports skin regeneration, improves pigmentation, and helps scars fade more evenly. It’s particularly effective for both new and established scars—which is exactly why we've included it in our Sensitive Skin Waiwai Serum, where it works alongside other calming ingredients to support barrier repair and reduce inflammation.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is deeply nourishing and high in vitamin E, a nutrient often linked with scar recovery. It also contains oleic acid, which helps soften skin and supports the penetration of other active ingredients, allowing healing nutrients to work more effectively. Its richness makes it especially helpful for dry, fragile or post-surgical skin. You'll find this nourishing oil working hard in our Arohanui, Kiri Aroha, Waiwai, and Mana Men's Hero products.

Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp seed oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in an ideal balance for skin repair. These compounds help regulate inflammation and keep the skin barrier strong — key factors in minimising scar thickness and improving texture as the skin regenerates.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba is technically a liquid wax, and it closely resembles the skin’s own sebum. This makes it wonderfully balancing and supportive for healing, as it helps regulate moisture levels without clogging pores. It’s particularly useful for scars that are prone to dryness, redness or sensitivity.

Apricot Kernel Oil

Gentle and lightweight, apricot kernel oil delivers vitamins A and E, which support skin renewal. It’s a favourite for softening scar tissue and improving suppleness over time, making it ideal for older scars or skin that feels tight. (Arohanui, Mahana Body Oil, Mana Hero Facial Oil)

Evening Primrose Oil

Known for its gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), evening primrose oil helps calm inflammation and may ease itching or irritation around healing skin. It’s particularly supportive during the early phases of scar formation, when the skin can feel uncomfortable or reactive.

Grapeseed Oil

Light and fast-absorbing, grapeseed oil is high in antioxidants like proanthocyanidins, which protect the skin from further damage while encouraging collagen stability. It can help scars appear smoother and more even-toned, particularly when used consistently over time.

Chia Seed Oil

Chia seed oil is one of nature’s richest plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids. It helps reduce inflammation, strengthens the skin barrier and locks in hydration – all essential in supporting optimal wound healing and scar improvement. We love its restorative properties in our Mahana Body Oil.

St John’s Wort Infused Olive Oil

Infused in olive oil, St John’s Wort contains natural compounds that calm inflammation and encourage tissue regeneration. Traditionally used to soothe minor wounds, it may help scars soften and fade, particularly in the early stages of healing. (Because it can increase sensitivity to sunlight, it’s best applied at night or under clothing.)

One of the most powerful examples of how these oils can support healing comes from our very own CEO. After undergoing surgery, Tony applied Arohanui during recovery. His wound healed completely in just three weeks, leaving soft, smooth skin and no visible scar. It’s a beautiful testament to how these natural ingredients can work with the body to restore and repair.

Supporting Your Skin’s Healing Journey

Scarring is part of your body’s natural repair process, but the right care can make all the difference in how your skin recovers. By choosing oils rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, you can give your skin the support it needs to regenerate in a healthier, more balanced way.