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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October 21, 2007

Pros:

I've had 6 treatments of the SkinMedica Vitalze Peel.
After my 5th peel, I had two good weeks of no break out. I just had my 6th peel yesterday. During the first 4 peels I didn't notice much, except it healed my existing acne faster.

Cons:

Expensive! The strong tingling feeling of when the peel is being put on (but that means it's working!) and the flaking that lasted about 3 days. Might not be a long term solution.

I had a series of 6 peels. the first three peels i got 3 weeks apart then the last 3 pells i got two weeks apart. I should have done it every two weeks from the start. The first 4 peels I didn't notice any difference. Only that it helps my existing acne. I still was getting breakouts. Before my 5th peel I was BAD, now, 2 weeks later, I'm finally getting some compliments that my skin is looking good. I just had my 6th and final peel yesterday so we'll see. I don't see this being a long term solution to my acne though. I have yet to find a good cleanser so we'll see if the peels were worth it as i continue my search for clear skin. I'm clear right now so we'll see how long i can make it last. I bought 5 peels, get one free. They are $175 a peel!
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September 1, 2007

Pros:

Evens skin tone, reduces the appearance of acne scars, clears up your skin, makes your complexion overall better!

$20 for a whole bottle!

Cons:

One time i left it on my nose for too long and it had a little scarring from it taking too much skin off.

You are not suppose to use more than 20% of glycolic acid at home if you are not a professional. I however refuse to pay $80 a treatment at a professional. I use a 30% solution because i have darker skin. If you have dark skin stick to 30% otherwise if you go higher there is a rick of getting white spots. I have used this on my own off and on. Recently i have been using it once a week. That is the only glycolic acid that i use, i use nothing during the week expect a face wash and some acne cream. My boyfriend just commented that my face is looking great! He thinks it's because i'm not eating sugar, but really it's these peels i've been doing each week. I also take 50mg of zinc everyday. I believe it helps. I've had acne for over 10 years and this is the best thing i've ever found.
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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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May 29, 2007

Pros:

The Vitalize Peel can be done in about 30 minutes or fewer. I experienced light, unpainful burning and was able to wash off the solution in six hours. My normal activities were not restricted except for sun exposure. My skin appeared mildly sunburned

Cons:

Skin peeling begins on the second day and escalates on day three. Some peeling and flaking continues on day four. Need at least three or more for the best results.

I am in my early 40s, and after my third Vitalize Peel, my acne breakouts have virtually disappeared and my complexion finally looks fresh. My acne scars (the deep-valley type) on my cheeks are less noticeable. They appear firmer. This peel has also decreased many of the negative effects (brown spots, discoloration) from the sun. I had five of these peels, and now I will get one every six months for maintenance.
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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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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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October 17, 2006

Pros:

I have tried the TCc EZPEEL from [link removed]
and absolutely loves it beacuse there is no down time and you can control the effect. I use it for my acne and my wrinkles at well. It is very inexpensive and last for about 3 months.

I have used TCA in the past bougth from the internet that were too strong and the healing process was so long it was a nightmare. The Ezpeel, did not have a downtime and I did not had to hide at home and get off from work. They also do free online consultation on their website. The kit was professional included step bystep instruction and post care. No mixing or skin prep were needed. The kit included I believe gloves, application pads, the EZPEEL sealed bottles (about 1 ounce)and a clear cosmetic bag. Marc Cole
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October 9, 2006

Pros:

Very affordable and cost-effective, clears active acne, reduces the depth and appearance of acne scarring, lightens post-inflammatory redness, gives the skin a healthier "glow" and smoother appearance, results improve after each treatment

Cons:

Very irritating if used incorrectly, best results can take multiple sessions depending on the strength of the acid, results are short-lived if not maintained by using milder acids between peels

This is an excellent option for those seeking smoother, clearer, and healthier skin for a fraction of the cost of laser treatments. Instead of visiting a spa, I performed chemical peels on myself by purchasing medical-strength peels over the internet. When done correctly, the results are equal to the more expensive peels done by aestheticians. I notice great improvement in the depth of my acne scarring, and they continue to get better with each subsequent peel -- some superficial scarring has been removed completely! I no longer experience hormonal breakouts, and my skin has a gorgeous "super-model" glow. The red spots leftover from acne are also getting much lighter, and again, improvements are cumulative with each peel. I do a 40% weekly lactic acid peel with 5% beta hydroxy peel daily. I also use copper peptides post-peel to encourage more rapid healing. I absolutely recommend chemical peels, but again, I stress that you can do this at-home for quite a bargain.
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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