Acne scars are an unwelcome reminder of the battles your skin has fought. These scars affect the texture of your skin and impact how you feel about yourself.
But there is good news. Modern skin care offers effective solutions, and chemical peels are among the most trusted options.
These peels gently resurface your skin, reduce scars, and restore a smoother, brighter appearance. Keep reading to discover the best chemical peels for acne scars and how they can transform your skin’s story.
What is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a skin treatment that involves applying a specially formulated solution to the outer layer of the skin to exfoliate and reveal fresh, healthier skin. It stimulates cell renewal, improves skin texture, reduces acne scars, and addresses discoloration.
Chemical peels come in three types based on how deeply they work:
- Light Peels: Light peels use mild acids such as glycolic, salicylic, or lactic acid to treat the surface layer of skin. Perfect for fading mild acne scars or brightening dull skin.
- Medium Peels: These work on deeper layers to tackle more stubborn scars and pigmentation issues. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or Jessner’s solution, a mix of different acids, is commonly used for this type.
- Deep Peels: Deep chemical peels are suitable for more dramatic results, and phenol is used to reach the lower layers of the skin. Though they offer significant improvement, they come with a higher risk of complications and are less commonly used today.
How Does Chemical Peels Work
Chemical peels work by applying a carefully formulated chemical solution to the skin, which removes the outermost layers.
This process gently exfoliates the skin’s surface and progresses deeper depending on the type of peel used.
The solution interacts with the skin cells, breaking down the bonds that hold dead or damaged cells together. As these cells are loosened, the skin naturally sheds the treated layer over days.
This shedding process triggers the body’s natural healing mechanism, encouraging new skin cell growth and enhancing skin turnover.
The Best Chemical Peels for Acne Scars
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Glycolic Acid Peels
Glycolic acid peels are one of the favorite acid peels. These gently exfoliate the top skin layer to reveal smoother, scar-free skin.
These peels are effective against hyperpigmentation and atrophic scars, promote cell turnover, and reduce melanin production.
However, individuals with darker skin tones should use them cautiously to avoid discoloration.
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Mandelic Acid Peels
These chemical peels are best for darker and sensitive skin types because their larger molecular size minimizes irritation. Dermatologists recommend them for those with active acne.
These gradually improve skin texture and reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by acne.
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Lactic Acid Peels
Lactic acid peels are gentle yet effective alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) that exfoliate the skin’s surface, helping to reduce mild acne scars and enhance the complexion’s brightness.
Their hydrating properties make them ideal for dry or sensitive skin. Consistent treatments offer a smoother and healthier appearance.
For at-home chemical peel use, choose a light lactic acid peel with a strength of 5% to 10%
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Salicylic Acid Peels
Salicylic acid peels are widely recognized for acne treatment and target post-inflammatory scars.
By deeply exfoliating and reducing oil production, these peels improve skin texture and are effective for oily, acne-prone skin. However, they are less effective on deeper scars.
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Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) Peels
TCA peels are medium strength peels and are known for their ability to tackle deep scars and penetrate deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production and smooth out uneven textures.
For more severe scarring, the TCA CROSS technique targets individual scars for precise treatment and improvement over time.
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Jessner’s Peels
Jessner’s peels combine salicylic acid, lactic acid, and resorcinol and are ideal for treating mild to moderate acne scars.
These peels exfoliate dead skin cells, even out texture, and address post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The depth of the peel is determined by dermatologists to meet the client’s specific needs.
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Combination Peels
Sometimes, a one-size-fits-all approach does not work.
In that case, dermatologists combine different acids to create customized treatments, addressing acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and overall skin renewal in a single session.
Chemical Peels for Acne Scars at Home
Over-the-counter (OTC) chemical peel products, such as gels, pads, and wipes, are convenient to treat mild acne scars and uneven skin texture. These products contain lower concentrations of acids like glycolic or salicylic acid, making them safer for at-home chemical peel use.
However, to avoid side effects, using these solutions requires caution, proper research, and adherence to the product instructions.
At-home peels may not effectively treat atrophic acne scars, but they can prevent new scars, improve minor texture changes, and address very mild scarring.
Unlike professional chemical peels customized to your skin type, scarring severity, and acne condition, OTC peels are a generalized solution.
For the best outcomes, always choose products from reputable sources, such as Sephora, Ulta, or Amazon, and avoid sourcing powerful acids online. Skip acne medications or retinol on the days you perform a peel to minimize irritation.
Cost of Chemical Peels
The cost of chemical peels depends on the type and intensity of the treatment:
- Light Chemical Peels: Range from $100 to $300.
- Medium Chemical Peels: Cost between $1,000 and $2,000.
- At-Home Chemical Peel Products: Available for $20 to $100, depending on the brand and strength.
Investing in a chemical peel customized to your skin’s needs can make a difference. For professional care and results, schedule your personalized consultation with the best dermatologist of chemical peels in NC at MarSha MedSpa! Your skin and budget are our priority!
Conclusion
Acne scars don’t have to define your story. Chemical peels resurface your skin, reduce scars, and restore your confidence.
From light peels for a gentle touch to medium or deep peels for more significant results, there is a treatment for every need.
Your skin deserves the expertise and customization only a trained dermatologist can provide.
Trust MarSha MedSpa for a personalized approach to chemical peels.
Our dermatologists are committed to delivering safe, effective treatments that prioritize your skin and budget. Schedule your consultation today!
FAQs
Are chemical peels effective for acne scars?
Yes, chemical peels can reduce acne scars by stimulating cell renewal and improving skin texture. They offer customized options for different scar types.
Do chemical peels hurt?
You may feel mild tingling or stinging during a chemical peel, but discomfort depends on the peel’s strength.
Are there chemical peels for sensitive skin?
Yes, gentle options like lactic or mandelic acid peels are suitable for sensitive skin and reduce irritation while improving texture.
