Chemical Peels: Can Chemical Peels Make Acne Scars Worse?
Have you experienced acne over the years that eventually led to acne scarring? If so, you have likely tried many different treatment options to eliminate or diminish the scarring. Did you know that chemical peels are also for acne scars? Although the word “chemical” may sound like it would be something that makes your acne scars worse, it can actually help to treat acne and acne scarring. The dermatologists at the Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute are skilled at providing chemical peels and explain the benefits of them to those experiencing acne scarring.
How Acne Scarring Occurs
Men and women of all ages are likely to experience acne throughout their teenage years and some throughout their adult years. As the oil glands are overstimulated due to hormonal changes, it creates buildup in the oil glands that results in acne. Some acne disappears as the hormones balance out, but for some, the acne continues, and it can get worse before it gets better. This can lead to acne scarring. Acne scarring occurs in severe cases of acne, but there are ways to reduce the appearance of scarring through facials such as a chemical peel.
Chemical Peels for Acne Scars
Chemical peels are superficial peels used for a variety of reasons, including treating acne scars. In addition to treating acne scars, a chemical peel can help fade brown spots, even out skin tone from sun damage, and improve collagen production when done every six weeks. During a chemical peel, a chemical solution is applied to the outer layer of skin. It is neutralized and then washed off, revealing smoother and brighter skin. A chemical peel will not make your acne scars worse.
There are different types of chemical peels that are used depending on the results you are looking to achieve. Glycolic acid/salicylic acid peels are light depth peels best used on those with minor skin imperfections. These help with minor skin discoloration and can minimize acne scars. With a light peel, the chemical solution is left on for less than 30 minutes. After the peel, you will notice some mild redness and flaking.
A deep peel is performed when a higher concentration of salicylic acid is used. It helps to reduce severe skin imperfections such as deep acne scarring, fine lines, and skin discoloration. After a deep peel, you can expect skin sensitivity and shedding for up to one week. It is important to stay out of direct sunlight and use sunscreen daily to avoid getting a sunburn, as your skin is more susceptible after a chemical peel.
In addition to chemical peels, microdermabrasion treatments can also help with acne scarring. Microdermabrasion is a lighter option than a chemical peel that helps to improve acne and acne scarring. A minimally abrasive instrument is used along the face to remove dead skin, resulting in an improvement in the skin’s texture.
A dermatologist can help you fight acne scarring so you don’t feel like you are in the battle alone. If you are in Bloomington, Illinois or the surrounding areas, complete this form. A dermatologist will be in touch to help evaluate your skin for the proper chemical peel treatment.