Best Chemical Peel for Acne Scars

There are many people who suffer from acne and it is no longer confined to teenagers. Even if a person is successful in treating acne, the problem with acne is that it leaves behind scars that are sometimes difficult to get rid of. Acne scars not only makes the skin look unsightly, but is seriously undermines a persons self-esteem and confidence. Although there are many over the counter products that can help in fading acne scars, some acne scars are too deep for these products to work. This is where you should consult a dermatologist to come up with a treatment plan that would help in eliminating the acne scars. One of the most effective treatment for removing acne scars is chemical peel treatment.

Chemical Peel for Acne Scar

A chemical peel treatment is an exfoliating method whereby an acid solution of low or medium strength is applied to the skin's surface to attain smooth blemish free complexion. The kind of acid solution used and the strength of the solution has a bearing on the results that you are likely to see. Not all chemical peels are made equal and what works for one skin problem, might not work for another. For fine lines, uneven complexion, superficial wrinkles and pigmentation, chemical peels that uses mild concentration of alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids are very effective. However, for stubborn acne scars mild concentration of acids may not be that effective.

What is the Best Chemical Peel for Acne Scars

Before we know what is the best chemical peel for getting rid of acne scars, let us know more about the different type of chemical peels. Chemical peels are essentially of four types; Alpha Hydroxy Acid peel (AHA), Beta Hydroxy Acid peel (BHA), Trichloroacetic Acid peel and Phenol peels. Alpha hydroxy acid peels and beta hydroxy acid peels are milder chemical peels that helps in getting rid of minor imperfections of the skin like enlarged pores, fine lines, uneven skin texture and mild wrinkles and pigmentation. Although these peels can be used on patients who suffer from acne scars, they may not prove that effective which totally depends on the condition of scars. For those people who have mild scarring, a medium concentration of AHA or BHA can help in reducing acne scars.

Trichloroacetic Acid Peel

Trichloroacetic acid peel is a medium strength chemical peel that is very effective in treating acne scars. This concentration of trichloroacetic acid peel is determined by your dermatologist and generally, pre treatment with AHA is required to prepare the skin. It is not only effective for reducing acne scars, but it also gives a smoother skin tone. Phenol peel are one of the strongest chemical peels that is used for treating deep wrinkles and fine lines. They are not recommended for acne scars as phenol peels have many side effects like hyperpigmentaion and in some rare cases, cardiac complications.

From the above discussion, it is clear that the best chemical peel for acne scars is a medium strength trichloroacetic peel. But as with any other treatment, caution should be taken while undergoing a chemical peel treatment. Understanding and adhering to the pre and post treatment is very important before you undergo a chemical peel. Make sure that you go to a reputed dermatologist who can guide you on the best course of treatment for removing acne scars. Some people have sensitive skin and chemical peels might not be suitable for them. If you have sensitive skin and your dermatologist does not recommend chemical peels to you, it is best to heed the advice. There are other non invasive techniques that you may like to consider and discuss with your dermatologist, to get rid of the acne scars.