Chemical Peels (Light / Superficial Peels)
Results
Side Effects

Light or superficial peels only affect the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis). Light peels can therefore only be used in the treatment...

Light or superficial peels only affect the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis). Light peels can therefore only be used in the treatment of very shallow scars, and normally do not produce perceptible results. When chemical peels are applied on the skin, a controlled wound healing process occurs which might improve the appearance of the acne scar by stimulating the skin to produce more collagen and elastin.

This procedure is normally repeated multiple times (5 or more) in 2-week intervals, and you should see gradual results with each session. And after your last session, your skin should continue to improve.

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3.6
64
5
26.6%
4
31.3%
3
25%
2
10.9%
1
6.3%

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March 31, 2007

Pros:

the peel did take off some large freckles.

Cons:

it did not remove acne scars and caused a couple of more scars due to a little picking at the scab. don't pick anything off which is hard to do cause you'll have skin hanging off your face.

the light peels are fine. they don't hurt as much and recovery time is less. but you need them every so many months. i had them done at my derm. office and at spas. i also had the stronger peel at my derm. office. i don't recomend it at all. it's scary painful and caused more scarring.
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March 4, 2007

Pros:

Reduced my severe scarring by about 25-30%, quick process, can use warm cloths and showers to increase the peel process

Cons:

Very painful process, $100 per peel, so far 5 days down time, probably won't do another

It was a very painful process, but I feel my dermatologist definitely prepped my skin before the treatment. I had about 2 pimples on my face when I went in there, he extracted everything needed, and then did the peel. When I went in the room, they explained the whole process. I was told that the chemical would feel like when you preheat an oven and you open it and get the blast of hot air. It was 10 times worse. It felt like someone went over my face with a blow torch! She applied 2 different alcohol-based toners to my face to "dry it up" as much as possilble. That's when my face started to burn. Then she started to apply the chemical peel. It got to its hottest point, where I thought I wouldn't be able to handle it anymore, then it cooled down. She had me wash it off for 1 minute with cool water and I have some lotion and sunblock I use everyday. I got it on Tuesday and today's Saturay. The only thing left to peel is my forehead. I haven't seen results like I hoped for.
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Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.
Find a Doctor Using The American Acacemy of Dermatology Website

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.
Find a Doctor Using the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Website