Chemical peels are a cosmetic treatment option that can help eliminate active acne and diminish the look of acne scars. They work by removing the top layer of skin, allowing new, healthy skin to present. Chemical peels can be an excellent acne scar treatment option because they stimulate new collagen production and slough away discolored, dead skin cells to reveal healthy new cells. The degree to which chemical peels work may depend on your budget, and not all scars are equal. Chemical peels are available in different strengths, including superficial, medium, and deep peels. Some of the ingredients used in chemical peels include glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, phenol, and trichloroacetic acid.
Here are some positive and negative aspects of chemical peels for acne scars:
Positive:
- Chemical peels can help fade acne scars and improve the appearance of the skin.
- They can be a great way to maintain and rejuvenate the skin.
- Chemical peels can help with light surface scars, such as fading dark spots.
- They can help reduce the depth of wrinkles or acne scarring, brighten skin tone, and enhance the absorption of other skin care products.
Negative:
- Chemical peels might not be the best for severe raised or depressed scars.
- High-concentration chemical peels can cause permanent scarring.
- Chemical peels can be expensive, and light and at-home peels are less effective for raised or pitted scars than medium and deep peels.
Its important to note that not all chemical peels are suitable for all skin types, and its best to consult a dermatologist before trying a chemical peel at home or in a spa.