Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) has been successfully applied to various fields since its inception in the late twenty century. However, there are still challenges to overcome in order to enhance its performance in analytical experiments. These challenges include three major challenges: matrix effect, spectral interference, and self-absorption effect. This review specifically focuses on investigating the self-absorption effect, which disrupts the linear relationship between spectral line intensity and element concentration, thus affecting the the accuracy and sensitivity of LIBS analysis. The review explores different approaches to evaluate the extent of self-absorption, taking into account the evolutionary mechanism of this effect. Additionally, various methods for correcting spectra have been proposed, showing potential in significantly reducing self-absorption. Notably, the review emphasizes proactive measures to create non-self-absorbed conditions as the most effective approach to mitigate the self-absorption effect. Finally, the review presents a schematic description of exploiting self-absorption and highlights its promising prospects for future applications of LIBS.