Good or Excellent Response
60%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Moderate Response
86%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist or plastic surgeon? Make an appointment to get this procedure done. Don't have a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find a dermatologist or the American Society of Plastic Surgeons to find a plastic surgeon.
Read All About Chemical Peels (Medium-depth Peels)
Compare To Other Treatments
5
21.3%
4
26.2%
3
16.4%
2
18%
1
18%

Used Chemical Peels (Medium-depth Peels)? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
October 31, 2009

Pros:

Smooth to touch.

Cons:

More hyperpigmentation.

Not good for asians. I usually get brownish hyperpigmentation from any skin problems such as acne, cuts, burns, etc. The hyperpigmented scars take a very long time to fade away. TCA did the same. It left brown patches on my face. It's been a month a half now and it's slowly fading away with the use of hydroquinone 4% and tretinoin .05.
May 6, 2008

Pros:

N/A

Cons:

N/A

You guys must have some sensative skin, or I have tough skin. Ive kept the 35% Peel on my skin for up to 15 minutes and it hasnt done anything!
May 4, 2009

Pros:

hey i'm a doc.i do glycolic peels 4 my patients.i hv also tried.this is th closest to nature.yes!glycolic works.but it takes 10 2 12 sessions.u need to follow a protocol.start wit 20% for 3 mins then 4 5.then 35% then 50%never 70 %on face

Cons:

it burns itches.it causes visible peelin.so no outdoors.stay away fr sun.its dangerous

it works!!!!!!!

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.

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.