Chemical Peels (Medium-depth Peels)
Results
Side Effects

Medium-depth peels penetrate deeper into the skin than superficial peels, damaging the whole epidermis (outermost layer of skin) as well as the papillary...

Medium-depth peels penetrate deeper into the skin than superficial peels, damaging the whole epidermis (outermost layer of skin) as well as the papillary dermis (the top part of the dermis, just below the epidermis). When chemical peels are applied on the skin, a controlled wound healing process occurs that may stimulate the skin to produce more collagen and elastin, thus improving the appearance of acne scars.

This procedure is normally repeated multiple times (3 or more) in 3-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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August 19, 2015
Pretty happy with the results
I've and am currently using a Glycolic acid 50% regiment (9 trials so far) and have to say am quite satisfied with the results. Not only has the product helped with my acne scars, but has improved my complexion overall. My acne isn't as prominent as it used to be, which is great.The fan brush and chemical peel only cost me $20.00 on amazon, so its quite cheap. A bottle will last at least 3-4 months. The only downside is the pain; if you have sensitive skin it really hurts. Exposure time is between 3-10 minutes so you're just looking at the clock anticipating applying the water/baking soda mixture to cool your face off. But once you've tried it a couple of times and you're skin adjusts, you'll be fine. Very important that you apply a sunscreen (I use SPF 60) after using the product, your skin is much more sensitive to UV light. Also don't pick or touch your skin.
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March 12, 2011

Pros:

Has helped with overall complexion. Looks less "rough." Helps fade hyperpigmentation.

Cons:

Very SLOW process, will take several treatments to see results.

Peel like crazy for several days.

I bought 15% from [link removed]. I've bought TCA from another site and it was much weaker...I think most sites online will try to sell you fake TCA or industrial grade, which is very dangerous. MUAC sells the real thing. I've used it four times now and one peel is the equivalent to four or five glycolic peels in terms of results. You don't see anything for a couple of weeks, then three to four weeks post-peel you see good results. It's a slow process, though, so please don't expect instantaneous results. TCA peel has helped with my rolling scars especially.
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Juniorsharma_
November 12, 2016
Did your scars go away yet?
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Juniorsharma_
November 12, 2016
Did your scars go away yet?
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Juniorsharma_
November 12, 2016
Did your scars go away yet?
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February 21, 2011

Pros:

-DID HELP TO LIGHTEN PIH (post inflammatory HYPERpigmentation!
-DID HELP TO SOFTEN SCARS!
-makes skin tone look more even
-brightens dull complexion

Cons:

-*** WARNING*** do not use on regular skin
-if you get too zealous you will fry your skin off like I did
-does not work well on recent scars, works better on old, healed discoloration
-does NOT prevent new acne
-does NOT work on post inflammatory HYPOpigmentaion

ME: I am 32. I had **absolutely perfect/flawless skin** with only mild cleanser and lotion until age 31. I never needed make-up EVER. I now have grotesque, hormonal, cystic acne that scars whether I pick or not and causes pits and horrible discoloration. I have dark tan skin. I am so sad, I no longer want to show my face. PRODUCT: 40% glyolic acid peel off of ebay USE: I used the glycolic acid peel religiously every five days for the last month. The PIH has begun to lighten and the scars are softer! Really. Note: The newer scars that are just forming get horribly worse if you put glycolic acid on them before they are well healed. If you do put glycolic on new scars, then don't heal at all. DO NOT PUT IT ON PLACES THAT DON'T NEED IT, you will just singe your first layer of skin off. RESULTS: Don't expect overnight miracles. My acne was not lightening on its own after several months. I noticed a difference with the peel within a month. You should not, not put it on places that do not need it. Use, Dan's AHA for those places. This is for those of us with severe scarring and PIH.
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December 11, 2009

Pros:

Smoother, more even texture, better coloration

Cons:

Requires several treatments
Wouldn't use this in summer, or if you are outdoors a lot

I got very good results using a 35% product at home over the course of 8 weeks. Paying for salon treatments would be prohibitively expensive. I am 29, have hyperpigmented spots and a few ice pick scars from prior acne-- it's MOSTLY gone now, but it used to be BAD before I had my baby (hormones changed things, I think), and I tried several prescription products to control it. I peeled 3x a week for 8 minutes ea.-- my skin is not sensitive at all-- my coloring is far more even and the ice picks are even a bit shallower. Added bonus of softening of fine lines. However, while there is no discernable "peeling" I would not use this in summer or when you are outdoors a lot, as it does seem to lighten the skin. No amount of sunscreen will make up the diff between a really pale face and bronzed bod. I plan to continue use through at least Feb/March.
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June 29, 2009

Pros:

Easy to use at home, results seen quickly

Cons:

Down time

I purchased a 35% peel and diluted it for spot treatment to forehead wrinkles and dark skin discolorations made more prominent on my forehead, cheeks and around my chin from acne scars. I used it on Friday and my skin frosted and stung as indicated then went numb. by Friday night the treated areas had turned dark brown and were scabbing as indicated. Now, on Monday the brown skin is sloughing off and the new pink skin underneath is free of discoloration and the deep forehead wrinkles are much less prominent. I'm very pleased with the results especially since I didn't have to pay upward of $500 for an office treatment at a dermatologist or plastic surgeon! I'll probably use it again in three months or so on my entire face to even out tone. Highly recommended!
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April 17, 2009

Pros:

Skin was a lot clearer,also my freckles faded considerably :)The line that had started on my forehead has nearly gone.

Cons:

Can leave you like a crusted crab for about 4 days,then leave you as red as a turkey cock for about 1/2 weeks.

If you have no important appointments for a week or so then give it a try as I really do swear by them.I abused tanning beds when I was in my teens.Now at the age of 34,my skin is a lot better than some of my daughters friends who are only 18 to 20.I have used them now for nearly 3 years and I really have reversed the sun damage that I had before I started using them.I have allways had a thing about my laugh lines and now they are barely visible,in day light there is nothing there but in a shadowy lighting then they are very faint.Also my forehead is like I have had botox as another pro is that it kind of gives you a mini face lift by totally tightening the skin.I would never opt for botox or fillers where you are just masking your skin problems I would allways opt for a TCA peel instead as you know that you are healing your skin instead of just a temporary fix.I would recommend them to anyone.Try Makeup Artists Coice they have a variety for you to try.
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November 30, 2008

Pros:

Worked for persistent PIH from acne scars treated with IPL

Cons:

Painful. 1-week downtime. Pricey-- although worth it for the results.

I have adult-onset cystic acne. I had a pigmented scar treated with IPL-- which made it worse. Literally I walked around always trying to cover up a scar shaped like a dark circle. I had this area treated again with IPL- then with Alexandrite-- needless to say it persisted. Then I tried Obagi Nu-Derm which was really the first thing that really worked for my skin. It made me skin look great and even lightened the scar. However-- it never completely disappeared. So I underwent an Obagi Blue Peel-- and my scar is gone. I also had some boxcar scars which were lightened. I would definitely try Obagi for pigmented scars/PIH. I would start with NuDerm and then follow with the Obagi Peel. I am so happy with the results!! I went to a plastic surgeon to have this done and highly recommend someone who is familiar with the Obagi system and peels.
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September 27, 2008

Pros:

softer skin, lighter scars, and finally gaining my confidence back :)

Cons:

peeled for about a week, and I thought that the procedure hurt.

Hello, I have had acne for about 6 years (I am 21). I have tried everything it feels like but than I got a medium peel done ($50) and I noticed how much softer and clearer my skin is... The nurse did tell me to take my oral medication twice a day like it is recommended and I have'nt broken out really bad. But I have noticed my scars are a little less red and my skin looks more fresh and healthy.(After one peel) I believe that this procedure can help me feel better about myself where I feel like I dont need to put a mask of make-up on everyday. I am actually going for my second peel tomorrow :) I am so excited I cant wait till I see the results after this peel :) after this peel if I have no more active breakouts than I am gonna start microdermabrasions. Good Luck!
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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!
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September 14, 2007

Pros:

cleared spots straight away and slowly reduces scars

Cons:

one week peeling time cost 100 quid a peel

i had one and saw improvement. i watched as the nurse applied it to my skin and saw it burn the spots down. dries them out. i need four consecutive peels to see huge improvment on scars(pitted). ps one peel got rid of colour scars
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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