Having acne is bad enough, but dealing with acne scars can last a lifetime. Fortunately, you can smooth and fade the appearance of acne scars and achieve smooth skin with a chemical peel. Chemical or facial peels are an effective way to rejuvenate your skin and reveal a bright, even surface and a more confident appearance.
What is a Chemical or Facial Peel?
When most people think of exfoliation, they think of scrubs or dermabrasion. However, manual exfoliation is only one form. Chemical exfoliation is used in facial peels. Both remove dull, damaged layers of skin, but a chemical peel uses acids, including glycolic and trichloroacetic acids. With a range of peels to choose from, your team at Capital Laser & Skin Care can choose the best one for any skin concern, including red or darkly pigmented acne scars.
Can a Chemical Peel Improve Acne Scars?
Chemical peels are often one of the most effective ways to treat red or darkly pigmented acne scars. We often recommend peels due to several factors:
- They are highly customizable
- They address the uneven texture caused by acne scars
- They correct post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by inflamed acne
- They require minimal downtime
- They fit your schedule and lifestyle
Only a consultation will let your acne scar expert determine the best way to treat yours. While we often recommend chemical peels, lasers may be recommended for deep or extensive areas of scarring. We will develop a treatment plan focused on your long-term results.
How Often Should I Get a Chemical Peel?
How often you get a chemical peel depends on the type of peel and how your skin responds to it. The lightest chemical peels, which effectively brighten and clarify the skin, can be performed as often as every few weeks. Peels used for acne scars are usually performed every few months. Most people will need a series of treatments to see their best results.
Is There Any Downtime After a Chemical Peel?
If you have a light chemical peel, you may not have any downtime at all. Stronger peels will result in some redness and sensitivity for up to a few days, and some people may experience minor peeling. Your esthetician will explain what you can expect and how to care for your skin to speed up the healing process.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Chemical Peel?
Chemical peels are safe for all skin types and tones, and their customizability means they can be used to treat a wide range of skin issues. People with acne scars are often ideal candidates for chemical peels, although they should be in good health and have reasonable expectations.
With so many peels to choose from, we will work with you to find one that fits best into your schedule, achieves the results you want, and minimizes downtime. Getting rid of your acne scars can be easier and more comfortable than you may have expected.
Take the First Step
Interested in learning more about chemical peels? We would love to speak with you. Please fill out the form on this page to request a consultation or call our Chevy Chase, MD office today at (301) 798-9699 to schedule your private consultation at our laser and cosmetic dermatology center, located just blocks away from Washington, D.C.
