Chemical Peel for Acne Scars

Struggling with acne scars can be a challenging experience that can impact not just your skin, but also your confidence. Fortunately, advancements in dermatology have yielded an effective solution for those looking to rejuvenate their skin and diminish the appearance of these scars: chemical peels.

In this article, we’ll explore how chemical peels work, the types available to you, and whether they eliminate acne scars.

What Is a Chemical Peel and How Does it Work?

A chemical peel is a cosmetic treatment used to smooth and improve the texture of the skin. It involves the application of a chemical solution that removes the top layer (or layers) of skin to reveal the smoother, more youthful skin beneath.

What Are the Different Types of Chemical Peels?

Superficial Peels

Superficial peels, also known as “lunchtime peels,” utilize mild acids like alpha-hydroxy acid to gently exfoliate the skin. These peels only remove the outermost layer of the skin, making them suitable for fine lines, acne, uneven skin tone, and dryness. The recovery time involved with superficial peels is minimal.

Medium Peels

Medium peels employ trichloroacetic or glycolic acid to reach both the middle and outer layers of the skin. These peels are more effective at addressing age spots, fine lines, wrinkles, freckles, and moderate skin discoloration. They can also be used to improve skin texture. The recovery time for medium peels is about seven days.

Deep Peels

Deep peels involve the use of phenol or trichloroacetic acid to penetrate the lower middle layer of the skin and remove damaged skin cells. These peels can significantly diminish the appearance of deeper wrinkles, scars, precancerous skin patches, and more serious forms of skin discoloration. Deep peels at Bella Medspa also require about a week of recovery time.

Can a Chemical Peel Remove Acne Scars?

Chemical peels can’t get rid of scarring altogether, but they can diminish the appearance of scars. The answer as to whether they can make your scars less conspicuous will depend on the type of peel used and the severity of the scars being treated. Light and medium peels can be effective for mild scarring, but chemical peels may not be effective for severe scars.

It’s essential to consult with a professional to determine the most appropriate type of chemical peel for your skin.

Which Chemical Peel Is Best for Acne Scars?

When it comes to chemical peels for acne scars, the Trichloroacetic Acid Peel stands out for its ability to penetrate deeper into the skin than other peels. This penetration enables the TCA Peel to stimulate underlying layers of skin and promote cell regeneration and collagen production, which are crucial to the healing of acne scars.

Another great option is the Salicylic Acid Peel, which is particularly effective for those with oily skin. Salicylic acid works by dissolving the debris that clogs pores and breeds acne, making it not only an excellent treatment for existing acne, but also for diminishing the appearance of scars.