Acne doesn’t depart neatly; even after the flare-ups fade, scars linger, a reminder of less than stellar times. Time can mend these marks, but there are expert-endorsed approaches to expedite the healing process. Among the favored methods is the chemical peel.
Delving into the potential advantages of chemical peels for acne-prone skin:
- Enhancing texture and tone
- Diminishing dark spots
- Clearing pores to stave off future breakouts
“Chemical peels operate by shedding the upper skin layer, allowing fresh, healthy skin to emerge,” explained Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD, FAAD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Yale New Haven Hospital and co-creator of Pure BioDerm.
“Overall, chemical peels can be an effective way to preserve and rejuvenate the skin,” she added.
“These peels are more proficient in exfoliation compared to physical exfoliators, such as topical scrubs. The chemical’s impact not only eliminates dead skin cells at the surface but also provokes intentional damage that stimulates the body’s natural collagen production, aiding in scar filling.”
It’s worth noting that chemical peels may not be ideal for severe raised or depressed scars.
NOT ALL SCARS ARE IDENTICAL
Scars form during the healing process when skin rapidly generates cells to create new collagen fibers or fend off infections. This can give rise to hypertrophic scars or atrophic scars. Hypertrophic scars are raised tissues, occurring when the body generates excessive collagen during healing. Atrophic scars are depressed scars, manifesting when tissue loss occurs. Ice pick or boxcar scars fall into this category.
Choosing the appropriate chemical peel might be a daunting task, especially as a misstep can lead to harsh outcomes. But knowledge is the key.
Read on to understand which chemical peels are safe for home use, which require dermatological guidance, the frequency of peels needed, and more.
CAN A CHEMICAL PEEL AGGRAVATE ACNE SCARS?
This question is complex. Chemical peels don’t worsen existing scarring, but they can cause new scarring if not administered correctly. So, a chemical peel won’t exacerbate existing acne scars, but if it’s mishandled, new scars could arise. Many steps can be taken to minimize the risk of this undesirable side effect, though. The safest route for any cosmetic treatment is to consult a dermatologist. While health spas and at-home kits may promise attractive results and lower costs, they come with significant risks. These entities are businesses, primarily focused on profits, not the welfare of your skin.
A dermatologist, in contrast, is skilled in proper techniques and primarily concerned with your health. A spa may not thoroughly inquire about contraindications for a chemical peel, such as the use of acne drug isotretinoin, which increases the scarring risk with a chemical peel. Even if you haven’t used the drug in months, the risk remains. A dermatologist considers your medical history and asks the right questions.
While a chemical peel can lead to scarring if things go awry, this side effect is exceptionally rare, especially under the guidance of a licensed dermatologist. Share your concerns with your doctor, who can initiate treatment with gentle peels to observe your skin’s reaction. They’ll also recommend proper pre and post-peel skincare. A chemical peel can effectively address acne scars for most individuals, promoting better skin healing and significantly reducing scar visibility.
Chemical peels not only boost self-esteem but also enhance skin appearance, diminishing scars, acne, and uneven tone, allowing greater confidence in one’s appearance. Understandably, concerns may arise due to the term “chemical.” Read on to delve deeper into chemical peels, their nature, and their impact on acne scars before scheduling an appointment.
Three types of peels exist: superficial, medium, and deep. The chosen type for your treatment primarily hinges on skin severity and overall sensitivity. Consequently, it’s improbable for a licensed dermatologist to recommend a chemical peel that would harm you or exacerbate acne scars.
Chemical peels eliminate the outer skin layer through a chemical interaction between skin cells and peel acids. This unveils a smoother, untainted layer of skin untouched by acne.
In essence, chemical peels actively diminish acne scars; they don’t contribute to their formation!
Several benefits come from professional chemical peels for acne scars. Alongside scar reduction, you may notice a brighter complexion, fewer wrinkles, faded dark spots, and a more uniform skin tone.
As previously mentioned, professional chemical peels effectively address various skin issues. Customized chemical solutions in professional treatments significantly mitigate potential problems.
PRE-CHEMICAL PEEL INSTRUCTIONS
- Avoid alpha hydroxy acid or salicylic acid products 72 hours before the peel.
- Discontinue Accutane use for a year before the chemical peel.
- Refrain from retinol, tretinoin cream, waxing, masks, scrubs, exfoliants, tweezing, injections, and other drying or irritating products.
- Don’t shave your face on the peel day.
- If you have open lesions, cold sores, facial dermatitis, or eruptions, postpone the peel until full healing.
CHEMICAL PEEL POST-CARE FOR ACNE
- Abstain from aerobic exercise or intense physical activity for 48 hours.
- Use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) continuously for at least a week after the peel. Continued use protects your skin and maintains peel benefits.
- Avoid direct sun exposure; excess sun can hinder proper healing and sometimes reverse peel benefits.
- Treat the skin gently; do not exfoliate. Mild redness, dryness, or flaking may persist for several days.
- Avoid picking or pulling peeling skin; let the dead skin slough off naturally.
- Refrain from alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids products, retinoids, retinols, and fragranced facial products for a few days.
- Consult your esthetician for when it’s safe to resume normal home care.
CHEMICAL PEEL BENEFITS FOR ACNE
For optimal results, dermatologists usually administer multiple peels over several weeks. Deep peels, occurring once, demand an extended recovery period. Post-treatment, chemical peels remove damaged skin, clearing up acne. There are additional hidden benefits; for instance, peels enhance the absorption of future topical treatments to maintain acne control.
Chemical peels also minimize pore size and may reduce sebum production, the oil responsible for acne. This leads to fewer long-term acne breakouts. The rejuvenated appearance, coupled with the reduced acne, revives confidence in ways previously unimaginable.
ACNE TREATMENT WITH CHEMICAL PEEL
Following the initial consultation, the best peel type for your acne treatment will be determined. Preparing the skin for the peel may involve prescribing topical medications in the weeks leading up to the first peel. These may include a combination of hydroquinone, tretinoin, and lower-strength alpha-hydroxy acids. Follow all pre-peel instructions, including sun avoidance, makeup restraint, and exfoliation cessation.
On the treatment day, your dermatologist or aesthetician will cleanse your face and apply the prepared chemical solution using an applicator, avoiding hair and eyes. After a few minutes, the chemical is neutralized to prevent burning. The process takes less than 20 minutes, slightly longer for deeper peels. A series of chemical peels over 2 to 3 months is usually recommended for optimal results.
CHEMICAL PEEL PROCESS FOR ACNE SCARS
Typically, a licensed skincare professional in a plastic surgeon’s office or medical spa performs the treatment. The chemical solution is applied to the entire face or specific regions like the crow’s feet or vertical mouth wrinkles. Application involves a sponge, cotton pad, swab, or brush (avoiding brows, eyes, and lips). During the application, a mild tingling (for light to medium peels) or a burning sensation (for deep peels) may be felt. These sensations are usually minimal for light and medium peels but more intense for deep peels. The solution’s duration is determined by monitoring skin appearance changes. In some cases, the solution is “neutralized” after a certain time.
Chemical peels differ in ingredients, strength, and depth of peeling action. Factors include application time and method.
After a light or medium peel, no covering or after-peel ointment is necessary, and little to no downtime is expected. After a deep peel, a protective coating of petroleum jelly or other ointment is applied for one to two days. Dressings, tape, or bandages may be used, especially for severe wrinkling. Deep peels require a longer recovery.
Chemical peels exfoliate dead cells, enhancing texture, addressing acne, sun damage, and congested pores. Deeper peels tackle wrinkles and uneven tone.
WHICH CHEMICAL PEEL IS SUITABLE FOR ACNE?
Your doctor will opt for a superficial or medium-depth peel to treat acne. Superficial peels are beneficial for mild acne, improving texture and tone. Medium peels address moderate to severe acne scars, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Superficial peels may include:
- Glycolic acid (starting at 20%)
- Salicylic acid (deep exfoliation, hydration improvement, fewer breakouts)
- Jessner’s Solution (combination of lactic acid, salicylic acid, and resorcinol)
- Lactic Acid (light peel, often combined with others)
- Mandelic Acid (exfoliation, antibacterial properties, often combined with salicylic acid)
- Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) at specific concentrations.
Medium peels may include:
- TCA (35% to 40%)
- Glycolic acid (35% or higher)
- Combination of acids for a more potent solution.
WHAT ABOUT DEEP PEELS?
Some individuals with severe cystic acne or deep acne scars are candidates for deep chemical peels. These peels contain phenol or TCA beyond 50%, with phenol particularly effective for deep-seated acne and scars. If you qualify for a deep peel, follow your doctor’s instructions closely for optimal results.
AFTERCARE AND POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
Your dermatologist will provide post-treatment care instructions to support healing and expedite results, including:
- Regular sunscreen and moisturizer application.
- Expect temporary worsening of skin before improvement.
- Consistent use of prescribed topical treatments.
- Avoiding makeup, tanning, and excessive sun exposure for at least 48 hours.
- Limiting intense physical activity for 24 hours.
- Resisting the temptation to pick or pull peeling skin, as it can cause irritation or transfer dirt to your face.
- Refraining from alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids products, retinoids, retinols, and fragranced facial products for a few days.
- Consult your esthetician regarding when it’s safe to return to your normal home care routine.
THE BENEFITS OF CHEMICAL PEELS FOR ACNE
For the best outcome, dermatologists often perform multiple peels over several weeks, with deep peels requiring extended recovery. After a complete treatment regimen, chemical peels remove damaged skin, effectively clearing acne. There are hidden advantages as well; peels enhance the absorption of future topical treatments, maintaining acne control.
Chemical peels can also reduce pore size and decrease sebum production, the oil contributing to acne. Consequently, long-term acne breakouts are fewer. The combined rejuvenation and acne reduction restore confidence in unexpected ways.
ACNE TREATMENT WITH CHEMICAL PEEL
Following your consultation, the ideal peel type for your acne treatment will be determined. Preparing the skin may involve topical medications in the weeks preceding the first peel, such as a combination of hydroquinone, tretinoin, and lower-strength alpha-hydroxy acids. Adhere to all pre-peel instructions, including sun avoidance, makeup restraint, and exfoliation cessation.
On the treatment day, your dermatologist or aesthetician will cleanse your face and apply the prepared chemical solution using an applicator, avoiding hair and eyes. After a few minutes, the chemical is neutralized to prevent burning. The process takes less than 20 minutes, slightly longer for deeper peels. A series of chemical peels over 2 to 3 months is usually recommended for optimal results.
CHEMICAL PEEL PROCESS FOR ACNE SCARS
Typically, a licensed skincare professional in a plastic surgeon’s office or medical spa performs the treatment. The chemical solution is applied to the entire face or specific regions like the crow’s feet or vertical mouth wrinkles. Application involves a sponge, cotton pad, swab, or brush (avoiding brows, eyes, and lips). During the application, a mild tingling (for light to medium peels) or a burning sensation (for deep peels) may be felt. These sensations are usually minimal for light and medium peels but more intense for deep peels. The solution’s duration is determined by monitoring skin appearance changes. In some cases, the solution is “neutralized” after a certain time.
Chemical peels differ in ingredients, strength, and depth of peeling action. Factors include application time and method.
After a light or medium peel, no covering or after-peel ointment is necessary, and little to no downtime is expected. After a deep peel, a protective coating of petroleum jelly or other ointment is applied for one to two days. Dressings, tape, or bandages may be used, especially for severe wrinkling. Deep peels require a longer recovery.
Chemical peels exfoliate dead cells, enhancing texture, addressing acne, sun damage, and congested pores. Deeper peels tackle wrinkles and uneven tone.
WHICH CHEMICAL PEEL IS SUITABLE FOR ACNE?
Your doctor will opt for a superficial or medium-depth peel to treat acne. Superficial peels are beneficial for mild acne, improving texture and tone. Medium peels address moderate to severe acne scars, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Superficial peels may include:
- Glycolic acid (starting at 20%)
- Salicylic acid (deep exfoliation, hydration improvement, fewer breakouts)
- Jessner’s Solution (combination of lactic acid, salicylic acid, and resorcinol)
- Lactic Acid (light peel, often combined with others)
- Mandelic Acid (exfoliation, antibacterial properties, often combined with salicylic acid)
- Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) at specific concentrations.
Medium peels may include:
- TCA (35% to 40%)
- Glycolic acid (35% or higher)
- Combination of acids for a more potent solution.
WHAT ABOUT DEEP PEELS?
Some individuals with severe cystic acne or deep acne scars are candidates for deep chemical peels. These peels contain phenol or TCA beyond 50%, with phenol particularly effective for deep-seated acne and scars. If you qualify for a deep peel, follow your doctor’s instructions closely for optimal results.
AFTERCARE AND POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
Your dermatologist will provide post-treatment care instructions to support healing and expedite results, including:
- Regular sunscreen and moisturizer application.
- Expect temporary worsening of skin before improvement.
- Consistent use of prescribed topical treatments.
- Avoiding makeup, tanning, and excessive sun exposure for at least 48 hours.
- Limiting intense physical activity for 24 hours.
- Resisting the temptation to pick or pull peeling skin, as it can cause irritation or transfer dirt to your face.
- Refraining from alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids products, retinoids, retinols, and fragranced facial products for a few days.
- Consult your esthetician regarding when it’s safe to return to your normal home care routine.
THE BENEFITS OF CHEMICAL PEELS FOR ACNE
For the best outcome, dermatologists often perform multiple peels over several weeks, with deep peels requiring extended recovery. After a complete treatment regimen, chemical peels remove damaged skin, effectively clearing acne. There are hidden advantages as well; peels enhance the absorption of future topical treatments, maintaining acne control.
Chemical peels can also reduce pore size and decrease sebum production, the oil contributing to acne. Consequently, long-term acne breakouts are fewer. The combined rejuvenation and acne reduction restore confidence in unexpected ways.
ACNE TREATMENT WITH CHEMICAL PEEL
Following your consultation, the ideal peel type for your acne treatment will be determined. Preparing the skin may involve topical medications in the weeks preceding the first peel, such as a combination of hydroquinone, tretinoin, and lower-strength alpha-hydroxy acids. Adhere to all pre-peel instructions, including sun avoidance, makeup restraint, and exfoliation cessation.
On the treatment day, your dermatologist or aesthetician will cleanse your face and apply the prepared chemical solution using an applicator, avoiding hair and eyes. After a few minutes, the chemical is neutralized to prevent burning. The process takes less than 20 minutes, slightly longer for deeper peels. A series of chemical peels over 2 to 3 months is usually recommended for optimal results.
CHEMICAL PEEL PROCESS FOR ACNE SCARS
Typically, a licensed skincare professional in a plastic surgeon’s office or medical spa performs the treatment. The chemical solution is applied to the entire face or specific regions like the crow’s feet or vertical mouth wrinkles. Application involves a sponge, cotton pad, swab, or brush (avoiding brows, eyes, and lips). During the application, a mild tingling (for light to medium peels) or a burning sensation (for deep peels) may be felt. These sensations are usually minimal for light and medium peels but more intense for deep peels. The solution’s duration is determined by monitoring skin appearance changes. In some cases, the solution is “neutralized” after a certain time.
Chemical peels differ in ingredients, strength, and depth of peeling action. Factors include application time and method.
After a light or medium peel, no covering or after-peel ointment is necessary, and little to no downtime is expected. After a deep peel, a protective coating of petroleum jelly or other ointment is applied for one to two days. Dressings, tape, or bandages may be used, especially for severe wrinkling. Deep peels require a longer recovery.
Chemical peels exfoliate dead cells, enhancing texture, addressing acne, sun damage, and congested pores. Deeper peels tackle wrinkles and uneven tone.
WHICH CHEMICAL PEEL IS SUITABLE FOR ACNE?
Your doctor will opt for a superficial or medium-depth peel to treat acne. Superficial peels are beneficial for mild acne, improving texture and tone. Medium peels address moderate to severe acne scars, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Superficial peels may include:
- Glycolic acid (starting at 20%)
- Salicylic acid (deep exfoliation, hydration improvement, fewer breakouts)
- Jessner’s Solution (combination of lactic acid, salicylic acid, and resorcinol)
- Lactic Acid (light peel, often combined with others)
- Mandelic Acid (exfoliation, antibacterial properties, often combined with salicylic acid)
- Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) at specific concentrations.
Medium peels may include:
- TCA (35% to 40%)
- Glycolic acid (35% or higher)
- Combination of acids for a more potent solution.
WHAT ABOUT DEEP PEELS?
Some individuals with severe cystic acne or deep acne scars are candidates for deep chemical peels. These peels contain phenol or TCA beyond 50%, with phenol particularly effective for deep-seated acne and scars. If you qualify for a deep peel, follow your doctor’s instructions closely for optimal results.
AFTERCARE AND POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
Your dermatologist will provide post-treatment care instructions to support healing and expedite results, including:
- Regular sunscreen and moisturizer application.
- Expect temporary worsening of skin before improvement.
- Consistent use of prescribed topical treatments.
- Avoiding makeup, tanning, and excessive sun exposure for at least 48 hours.
- Limiting intense physical activity for 24 hours.
- Resisting the temptation to pick or pull peeling skin, as it can cause irritation or transfer dirt to your face.
- Refraining from alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids products, retinoids, retinols, and fragranced facial products for a few days.
- Consult your esthetician regarding when it’s safe to return to your normal home care routine.
THE BENEFITS OF CHEMICAL PEELS FOR ACNE
For the best outcome, dermatologists often perform multiple peels over several weeks, with deep peels requiring extended recovery. After a complete treatment regimen, chemical peels remove damaged skin, effectively clearing acne. There are hidden advantages as well; peels enhance the absorption of future topical treatments, maintaining acne control.
Chemical peels can also reduce pore size and decrease sebum production, the oil contributing to acne. Consequently, long-term acne breakouts are fewer. The combined rejuvenation and acne reduction restore confidence in unexpected ways.
ACNE TREATMENT WITH CHEMICAL PEEL
Following your consultation, the ideal peel type for your acne treatment will be determined. Preparing the skin may involve topical medications in the weeks preceding the first peel, such as a combination of hydroquinone, tretinoin, and lower-strength alpha-hydroxy acids. Adhere to all pre-peel instructions, including sun avoidance, makeup restraint, and exfoliation cessation.
On the treatment day, your dermatologist or aesthetician will cleanse your face and apply the prepared chemical solution using an applicator, avoiding hair and eyes. After a few minutes, the chemical is neutralized to prevent burning. The process takes less than 20 minutes, slightly longer for deeper peels. A series of chemical peels over 2 to 3 months is usually recommended for optimal results.
CHEMICAL PEEL PROCESS FOR ACNE SCARS
Typically, a licensed skincare professional in a plastic surgeon’s office or medical spa performs the treatment. The chemical solution is applied to the entire face or specific regions like the crow’s feet or vertical mouth wrinkles. Application involves a sponge, cotton pad, swab, or brush (avoiding brows, eyes, and lips). During the application, a mild tingling (for light to medium peels) or a burning sensation (for deep peels) may be felt. These sensations are usually minimal for light and medium peels but more intense for deep peels. The solution’s duration is determined by monitoring skin appearance changes. In some cases, the solution is “neutralized” after a certain time.
Chemical peels differ in ingredients, strength, and depth of peeling action. Factors include application time and method.
After a light or medium peel, no covering or after-peel ointment is necessary, and little to no downtime is expected. After a deep peel, a protective coating of petroleum jelly or other ointment is applied for one to two days. Dressings, tape, or bandages may be used, especially for severe wrinkling. Deep peels require a longer recovery.
Chemical peels exfoliate dead cells, enhancing texture, addressing acne, sun damage, and congested pores. Deeper peels tackle wrinkles and uneven tone.
WHICH CHEMICAL PEEL IS SUITABLE FOR ACNE?
Your doctor will opt for a superficial or medium-depth peel to treat acne. Superficial peels are beneficial for mild acne, improving texture and tone. Medium peels address moderate to severe acne scars, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Superficial peels may include:
- Glycolic acid (starting at 20%)
- Salicylic acid (deep exfoliation, hydration improvement, fewer breakouts)
- Jessner’s Solution (combination of lactic acid, salicylic acid, and resorcinol)
- Lactic Acid (light peel, often combined with others)
- Mandelic Acid (exfoliation, antibacterial properties, often combined with salicylic acid)
- Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) at specific concentrations.
Medium peels may include:
- TCA (35% to 40%)
- Glycolic acid (35% or higher)
- Combination of acids for a more potent solution.
WHAT ABOUT DEEP PEELS?
Some individuals with severe cystic acne or deep acne scars are candidates for deep chemical peels. These peels contain phenol or TCA beyond 50%, with phenol particularly effective for deep-seated acne and scars. If you qualify for a deep peel, follow your doctor’s instructions closely for optimal results.
AFTERCARE AND POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
Your dermatologist will provide post-treatment care instructions to support healing and expedite results, including:
- Regular sunscreen and moisturizer application.
- Expect temporary worsening of skin before improvement.
- Consistent use of prescribed topical treatments.
- Avoiding makeup, tanning, and excessive sun exposure for at least 48 hours.
- Limiting intense physical activity for 24 hours.
- Resisting the temptation to pick or pull peeling skin, as it can cause irritation or transfer dirt to your face.
- Refraining from alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids products, retinoids, retinols, and fragranced facial products for a few days.
- Consult your esthetician regarding when it’s safe to return to your normal home care routine.
THE BENEFITS OF CHEMICAL PEELS FOR ACNE
For the best outcome, dermatologists often perform multiple peels over several weeks, with deep peels requiring extended recovery. After a complete treatment regimen, chemical peels remove damaged skin, effectively clearing acne. There are hidden advantages as well; peels enhance the absorption of future topical treatments, maintaining acne control.
Chemical peels can also reduce pore size and decrease sebum production, the oil contributing to acne. Consequently, long-term acne breakouts are fewer. The combined rejuvenation and acne reduction restore confidence in unexpected ways.
ACNE TREATMENT WITH CHEMICAL PEEL
Following your consultation, the ideal peel type for your acne treatment will be determined. Preparing the skin may involve topical medications in the weeks preceding the first peel, such as a combination of hydroquinone, tretinoin, and lower-strength alpha-hydroxy acids. Adhere to all pre-peel instructions, including sun avoidance, makeup restraint, and exfoliation cessation.
On the treatment day, your dermatologist or aesthetician will cleanse your face and apply the prepared chemical solution using an applicator, avoiding hair and eyes. After a few minutes, the chemical is neutralized to prevent burning. The process takes less than 20 minutes, slightly longer for deeper peels. A series of chemical peels over 2 to 3 months is usually recommended for optimal results.
CHEMICAL PEEL PROCESS FOR ACNE SCARS
Typically, a licensed skincare professional in a plastic surgeon’s office or medical spa performs the treatment. The chemical solution is applied to the entire face or specific regions like the crow’s feet or vertical mouth wrinkles. Application involves a sponge, cotton pad, swab, or brush (avoiding brows, eyes, and lips). During the application, a mild tingling (for light to medium peels) or a burning sensation (for deep peels) may be felt. These sensations are usually minimal for light to medium peels but more intense for deep peels. The solution’s duration is determined by monitoring skin appearance changes. In some cases, the solution is “neutralized” after a certain time.
Chemical peels differ in ingredients, strength, and depth of peeling action. Factors include application time and method.
After a light or medium peel, no covering or after-peel ointment is necessary, and little to no downtime is expected. After a deep peel, a protective coating of petroleum jelly or other ointment is applied for one to two days. Dressings, tape, or bandages may be used, especially for severe wrinkling. Deep peels require a longer recovery.
Chemical peels exfoliate dead cells, enhancing texture, addressing acne, sun damage, and congested pores. Deeper peels tackle wrinkles and uneven tone.
WHICH CHEMICAL PEEL IS SUITABLE FOR ACNE?
Your doctor will opt for a superficial or medium-depth peel to treat acne. Superficial peels are beneficial for mild acne, improving texture and tone. Medium peels address moderate to severe acne scars, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Superficial peels may include:
- Glycolic acid (starting at 20%)
- Salicylic acid (deep exfoliation, hydration improvement, fewer breakouts)
- Jessner’s Solution (combination of lactic acid, salicylic acid, and resorcinol)
- Lactic Acid (light peel, often combined with others)
- Mandelic Acid (exfoliation, antibacterial properties, often combined with salicylic acid)
- Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) at specific concentrations.
Medium peels may include:
- TCA (35% to 40%)
- Glycolic acid (35% or higher)
- Combination of acids for a more potent solution.
WHAT ABOUT DEEP PEELS?
Some individuals with severe cystic acne or deep acne scars are candidates for deep chemical peels. These peels contain phenol or TCA beyond 50%, with phenol particularly effective for deep-seated acne and scars. If you qualify for a deep peel, follow your doctor’s instructions closely for optimal results.
AFTERCARE AND POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
Your dermatologist will provide post-treatment care instructions to support healing and expedite results, including:
- Regular sunscreen and moisturizer application.
- Expect temporary worsening of skin before improvement.
- Consistent use of prescribed topical treatments.
- Avoiding makeup, tanning, and excessive sun exposure for at least 48 hours.
- Limiting intense physical activity for 24 hours.
- Resisting the temptation to pick or pull peeling skin, as it can cause irritation or transfer dirt to your face.
- Refraining from alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids products, retinoids, retinols, and fragranced facial products for a few days.
- Consult your esthetician regarding when it’s safe to return to your normal home care routine.
THE BENEFITS OF CHEMICAL PEELS FOR ACNE
For the best outcome, dermatologists often perform multiple peels over several weeks, with deep peels requiring extended recovery. After a complete treatment regimen, chemical peels remove damaged skin, effectively clearing acne. There are hidden advantages as well; peels enhance the absorption of future topical treatments, maintaining acne control.
Chemical peels can also reduce pore size and decrease sebum production, the oil contributing to acne. Consequently, long-term acne breakouts are fewer. The combined rejuvenation and acne reduction restore confidence in unexpected ways.