Chemical Peels for Acne Scar Treatment

If the acne scars are small or shallow, they may be treated with chemical peels (also known as chem-exfoliation or derma-peeling). Peeling is also effective in the treatment of stubborn comedones.

If the scarring is deep or extensive, the chemical peels may be repeated at regular intervals.Certain chemical agents capable of peeling off the skin layers are applied in different strengths depending upon the depth of the lesions. Removal of superficial layers stimulate regeneration of new tissue underneath resulting in the formation of fresh, rejuvenated skin.

The main chemical used for chemical peels are:

Trichlor Acetic Acid (TCA)
Glycolic acid
Phenol
Salicylic acid
Lactic acid
Tretinoin
Resorcinol

Most of these are available as OTC products. But it is advisable to have the peeling performed by your dermatologists as the strength and and depth of peeling has to be controlled to obtain optimum results.

Chemical Peels Indications: Shallow, soft or superficial macular atrophic scars can be treated with chemical peels.

Chemical Peels Caution: Ice pick scars and fibrotic or hypertrophic scars cannot be treated with chemical peels. If not done properly (i.e, using higher strengths that cause actual burns!), the skin can get burnt and result in more pronounced scars than before. This is a risk that both the dermatologist and the patient has to be aware of.

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