Chemical Peels (Light / Superficial Peels)
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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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Read All About Chemical Peels (Light / Superficial Peels)
Compare To Other Treatments
5
25.8%
4
30.3%
3
25.8%
2
12.1%
1
6.1%

Used Chemical Peels (Light / Superficial Peels)? Rate It:

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January 9, 2009

Pros:

I was going to an estitician (sp?) regularly alternating facials and progressive chemical peels. There was a huge difference in my skin with that regular maintence and more expensive products.

Cons:

It is embarassing to go out a few days after the peel because that's when you're not supposed to wear makeup. I did break out one time after recieving a peel but once that cleared up my skin was clear for months.

I think that if you go to a spa and get progressive peels and facials (if you can afford it!) you will see a difference in your skin. Also if you can afford it I reommend Rhonda Allisona and Eminence brands. That's what I was using before my budget was put on a diet.
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August 4, 2008

Pros:

After a week, I was healed.

Cons:

During that week, I looked horrible and would not go outside.

I used a 20% TCA peel. It thankfully did not leave any permanent damage. I do not think I will use it again because I did not notice any improvement in my skin tone.
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June 23, 2008

Pros:

lighten scars feel smother

Cons:

down time.

anyone who is going to do a peel or is doing a peel now, pls dont smoke, it will do more harm then good,it will make ur scar deeper.stop smoking a week before the peel and 2 weeks after u finlish the peel,it will be great if u can quit. and no sun.
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March 16, 2017
Chemical Peels to Treat Acne Scars
Chemical peels have been a lifesaver! I used them to treat hyperpigmentation leftover from pimples and small icepick scars. I don't think this would get rid of acne. I went to a esthetician to do mine. Please please please don't buy your own and do it yourself! You are giving yourself a controlled chemical burn and if you don't know what you're doing (which you don't) you can burn your face! It's not worth saving some money. The at home peels don't work as well either so you're wasting money. You need a trained esthetician to evaluate your skin and reccomend the best strength peel for your scars and to perform it correctly. Google chemical peel burns! You get them done once a month and for me it took 3 peels to fade the majority of my scars. It costs $150 each peel which is expensive but it really is worth it! I'd rather pay a lot of for a professional to do this correctly rather than save some money but potentially burn my skin. For really dark scars I used some scar fading creams along with the peels and my scars are now all faded. I don't need to use concealer anymore! I swear by peels, they are a god send!!!
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Realisticbabe
June 12, 2017
What type of peel? Light, medium, or deep?
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Geetha.adhavan
August 7, 2017
Which scar fading cream u r using??
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September 28, 2008

Pros:

It shows significant improvement overall of skin appearance

Cons:

slight burning sensation during treatment. No instant results, may need series of expensive treatments as well as a regimen.

I get pimples during my cycle and when I'm under stress. Though it's not really bad what makes it look worse is the scars that cover my entire face.Paired with my rough skin texture It makes me look 15 years older, at least(I'm 19 black female). After doing research on peels for ethnic skin I got a vitalize peel. After the skin peeled off it was much brighter underneath, as well as smoother and supple. I had noticeable lightening of acne scarring which covered my entire face, but I will probably need 2 (at the most) more treatments to take off the remaining scars.I have also started using retinoid cream to help extend the results. This causes flaking but I like to put alot of Cetaphil sensitive skin creme over it sit for a while and use a warm wash clothe to slough off dead skin. Though the retinoid is a bit irritating. My skin is glowing and smooth and much clearer than before. I look closer to my age now and I don't wear as much cover up.
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November 3, 2006

Pros:

It brings a bright glow to the face while it burned my face.

Cons:

I had a glycolic peel and during the pricedure my skin was stinging and burning, i thought my acne and scars would clear up but they didnt. I have had 3 sittings one month apart. I feel that stickin to the cleansing regimen has been the best option.

The TCA glycolic peel seems overrated to me. It depends person to person, some peoples skin can tolerate the peel, but people with sensitive skin, which is most of us with acne, i dont reccomend the TCA peel.
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April 11, 2012

Pros:

-helps clear blackheads, whiteheads
- helps scars and acne
- clears complextion

Cons:

-Stings alot on applications
-peeling for a few days

I bought this peel over ebay. Its a pretty reasonable price. I use to go to make-over salons and get these peels done for about $100.00 CDN now I do them at home myself with this product. I apply once every 2 weeks and leave on over night. My face has cleared up dramatically !
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March 21, 2008

Pros:

Clearer smoother sknin

Cons:

12.5% seems not effective to reduce scarring.

Definitely worth it. I tried TCA for red marks and scarring. Getting subcision done for rolling scars 1X per month and TCA 12.5% 2 weeks later 1X per month for a few months to see if results occur. This is 3 weeks into the first month. My skin is clearer and smoother. The TCA seems not to affect the scars only the general tone. Were going up in strength next month to 15%. I am optimistic. This is serious stuff so be careful.
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November 7, 2007

Pros:

Seen improvement after first peel...and lightening of acne scars

Cons:

the peeling was annoying and became embarassing..a little pricey

it should be tried at least one ...im gonna follow up with two more treatements...and im gonna go back to my dermatologist for meds so i hope that my skin is significantly improved by the first of the year
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June 16, 2007

Pros:

I come from a ducth family,so i am extremely pale.This means i scar easily,even the smallest pimple sometimes leaves a mark.I had mild fruit acid peels (3)which removed all of my superficial scars.Bonus: My pigmentation also improved dramatically.

Cons:

My skin was red andvery tight for about 24 hours.I can also only have peels in winter since the sun in SA and my pale skin is a deadly combo.My skin flaked for about a week(mildly) and I had to wear sunscreen to avoid getting sun damage.

The maintanence after a peel is a schlep, but the results are worthwile. Be patient, dont pick at the flaking skin (it will scar) and wear sunblock. I am only 22, and believe or not my scarring improved so much I actually got a modelling contract! Affordable and worthwile..
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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