Chemical Exfoliation
Reviews
3.4
372 Reviews
Chemical Exfoliation
Efficacy
61%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Chemical Exfoliation
Side Effects
Medium
Chemical Exfoliation
Acne.org’s Real World Take
Common sense might tell us that chemical peels seem like such a great idea for acne, but in the real world, acid alone just doesn’t seem to completely take care of acne. They can also be expensive and leave the skin red and peeling for a few days every time you get one.
Chemical Exfoliation
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist? Make an appointment to get this procedure done. Don't have a dermatologist? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find one. Do not try this at home!
Read All About Chemical Peels
Compare To Other Treatments
5
26.3%
4
28%
3
19.9%
2
12.1%
1
13.7%

Used Chemical Peels? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
December 7, 2009
Product used: Glycolic Acid Peel

Pros:

Doesn't seem to be very detrimental if you follow the instructions

Cons:

I didn't see any improvement during or after treatment

I used 35% glycolic acid peel as directed for 8 weeks, 1 treatment per week. I did tend to break out a few days right after each weekly session. I used lotion following the use of this product. I didn't see any results when I was done as i was expecting to. I was disappointed.
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November 3, 2009
Product used: Glycolic Acid Peel

Pros:

not sure yet

Cons:

none

I did my first treatment Monday night and so far I guess its working. I got that intial breakout after my first use. I cant wait untill my 6th treatment so I can see results.
October 24, 2009

Pros:

Clears up acne and reduces fine lines

Cons:

Results do not last

I had a Chemical peel (TCA/30%) last year. After four to five days of downtime, my skin did look younger and healthier. Acne, acne scars, and fine lines were reduced. However, my results were temporary. I believe this is because skin is swollen and plump after a chemical peel which visible reduces some skin imperfections. After some time, my skin returned to its original state. Would recommend this treatment if you can deal with the down time and want to temporary improve your skin for an upcoming event (party, event, etc.)
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October 7, 2009
Product used: Glycolic Acid Peel

Pros:

helps get rid of dead pigmentated skin thus revealing new skin

Cons:

requires persistence,long time as in many treatments and each treatment is about a week apart and you have to avoid sunlight totally.

well, i have tried for about 2 months now with 15% gel and 30%peel. beginning was amazing, i got really confident. i am 37 with bad childhood/teenage breakouts which left bad pigmentation and clogged pores on chin, nose and forehead. i guess my problem lies deep deep under the skin so it would take me long time to see long lasting results. I was told its gonna take 6mths to fully see the results. I got bad breakouts now, well, they are in-between whiteheads and pimples. I tried to remove them but skin is very sensitive and they are all very close together, and they dont seem to come out totally cos they seem to come back. There are like countless of them. almost every pore has the sebum or pus. Anyway, i can see the skin is tightening and i could see the shine(not from oil but due to the tight skin). I would try to continue cos it is quite a torture cos face is feeling dry and full of breakouts. Until 6 mths, i would not know if it really really works.
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October 3, 2009
Product used: Glycolic Acid Peel

Pros:

tried biphasic peel using glcyolic ,lactic ,salicylic and mandelic acids

Cons:

none

i tried the new peel it works well compared to glycolic peel alone [link removed]
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September 22, 2009
Product used: Glycolic Acid Peel

Pros:

Skin is softer and getting a "glow" back, appears brighter.

Cons:

Although the overall look of skin is improving I got a huge breakout, about 8 pimples within 2 days of use. I have never had more than one pimple in 35 yrs, I used the product for fine lines and I'm not sure I'll keep using it.

I'll continue use for a few more weeks to see if the pimples go away and no more breakouts occur, if they do I will stop and find another solution for fine lines.
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September 8, 2009

Pros:

After the light redness goes away and the peeling stops, about 5 days later. Your skin looks tighter and has more of a glow, but that only lasts for a few weeks.

Cons:

The VI Peel didn't remove dark spots, light skin unevenness, and really didn't remove or lessen light wrinkles.

I have had alot cheaper vitalize peels for 150.00 and it seemed to work alot better for the money!
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August 22, 2009

Pros:

i had it done today so i hope it works!

Cons:

burns when they put the peel on and for like an hour after..but then it starts to look and feel better.. try not to irritate or scrub your skin too much before your chemical peel cuz it burns more on the sensitive spots.

can't say if its gonna work yet but the doc said 90% success in clearing up acne after a few times so i really hope it does work :) he showed me a lot of before and after photos of his patients and it sold me.. so I paid $700 for 8 laser and chemical peel treatments.
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July 29, 2009

Pros:

less pimples, skin tone better

Cons:

still have rednesss, more little bumps on cheeks colourless, worsen my texture, pricy

I have combinational/normal skin. I only did one peel, but it probably improvied my skin 50%. I am going for 2 more peels. It stings when they do it, but its no big deal I have been putting a lot more antibacterial things on my face. What i liked about this peel is that my pimples size and quantity had reduced, but my pores are still getting glogged and u can see them in the mirror, just sitting there on my forehead full of dirt, when I try to pick em out, its only good for couple days and they clog again :( need better toner or something. If you have extra cash, go do it, but if dont - try just using gentle cleansers based on water and oil free moisturizer, that helps a lot to not break out!!!
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July 27, 2009

Pros:

None yet

Cons:

Burned face, face is red and sore, I look like I have 2nd degree burns

Just get a low acid peel, dont waste ur $
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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.

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.