Home Chemical Peels for Acne & Acne Scars

Chemical Peels for Acne & Acne Scars

Acne vulgaris is one of the most common skin conditions for many adolescents and adults, and it can be persistent and frustrating. One in every five individuals who develop acne breakouts is estimated to develop acne scars. Acne scars can be even more challenging to treat than the initial breakouts, so prompt and effective acne treatment is crucial. A chemical peel is a cosmetic treatment for reducing acne scarring, active acne, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. A board-certified dermatologist should perform chemical peel treatments to guarantee safety and ideal results. In addition to chemical peels, a host of non-invasive treatment options are available at the private NYC dermatology office of Dr. Michele Green, including Microneedling, Subcision with dermal fillers, and laser resurfacing.

A chemical peel is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that entails the application of a chemical solution to the skin’s surface, designed to accelerate the rate of exfoliation and skin cell renewal. This process removes dead skin cells, unclogs the pores, and stimulates the production of new collagen, which can help address a wide range of skin concerns, including skin discoloration, dark spots, dullness, active acne, fine lines, and acne scars. Several chemical peels exist, and the peel selected for your rejuvenation treatment depends on your skin type, skin tone, and the specific skin concerns being targeted. Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist is the best way to understand which chemical peel suits your needs and how many treatment sessions you may need to achieve optimal results.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned cosmetic dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients worldwide with the best non-invasive cosmetic treatment options, including chemical peels. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach to facial rejuvenation treatment, providing her patients with natural and long-lasting cosmetic results. She is consistently voted one of the best dermatologists in NYC by Castle Connolly, the New York Times, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise. When you consult with Dr. Green for your chemical peel treatment, she will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan to meet your unique needs and goals.

What is Acne Vulgaris?

Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition where sebum, dead skin cells, acne-causing bacteria, and debris become trapped in the skin’s pores, causing inflammation and irritation. Several types of acne include pustules, pimples, cysts, nodules, blackheads, and whiteheads. There are even more underlying factors that can contribute to the presence of acne. Genetics, the environment, hygiene, skin care products, hormone fluctuations, underlying medical conditions, puberty, certain medications, stress, and diet, among others, can influence acne breakouts. Untreated acne, especially cystic acne, has the potential to leave behind scars. Diagnosing and treating acne as early as possible is essential for scar prevention. Acne breakouts are often treated with oral antibiotics, topical medications, specially formulated skincare products, Isotretinoin (Accutane), and various cosmetic procedures, including chemical peels and laser treatments. A board-certified dermatologist is the best person to consult with regarding acne treatment. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience treating acne breakouts and acne scars. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will collect a thorough medical history and physically assess your skin condition, working with you to create a customized acne treatment plan that best suits your particular needs and goals.

What causes acne scars?

Acne scars occur when inflammation associated with acne lesions causes irreparable damage to the underlying skin tissue. Inflammatory acne, such as cysts and nodules, are the most likely lesions to cause acne scars. The type of acne scarring a patient develops depends on the skin’s response during healing. Atrophic scars, which are characterized by indents in the skin, occur if the body is unable to produce a sufficient amount of collagen to repair the damage. Ice pick scars, boxcar scars, and rolling scars are the three types of atrophic acne scars. Ice pick scars are deep, narrow scars that may resemble enlarged pores. The term “ice pick” scar comes from the fact that the skin appears as if it has been pierced by a sharp tool, like an ice pick. Boxcar scars are round or oval-shaped in appearance and have deep vertical sides. Rolling Scars are shallow indents without well-defined borders that make the skin’s surface appear wavy. Hypertrophic scars appear as raised, growth-like bumps on the skin that occur when there is an excess of new collagen production during the healing process.

Chemical peels are best used to treat active breakouts, atrophic acne scars, and hyperpigmentation that can occur after an acne breakout, also known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. To successfully manage breakouts and eliminate the appearance of acne scars, Dr. Green will customize your treatment approach so that it is appropriate for your specific skin concerns and aesthetic goals.

What is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a non-invasive exfoliating treatment during which a chemical solution is applied topically to the skin’s surface. Chemical peels are among the most popular anti-aging treatment options in the United States because they significantly improve fine lines, melasma, active acne, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, dull skin, acne scars, and more. Chemical peels effectively exfoliate away the top layer of skin, sloughing away dead skin cells and debris to clear the pores, stimulating new collagen production, and helping to kill acne-causing bacteria. Different strengths and types of chemical peels will determine how deep the peel will penetrate the layers of skin and its subsequent cosmetic effects. Since chemical peels are non-invasive and don’t necessarily require a lengthy downtime, patients often combine their peels with other non-invasive cosmetic treatments, including injectables and laser resurfacing treatments, to achieve overall facial rejuvenation results.

What different types of chemical peels do dermatologists perform?

The American Academy of Dermatology specifies three different types of chemical peels. The various types are determined by the strength of the chemical peel and how deeply the peel penetrates the layers of skin. The three significant classifications of chemical peels are light or superficial peels, medium-depth peels, and deep chemical peels. Within those three major classifications are four common types of peels: Alpha Hydroxy acid peels, Beta Hydroxy acid peels, Trichloroacetic Acid Peels (TCA), and Phenol peels. Common chemical peels include glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid, VI peel, and Jessner’s peel. The type of chemical peel recommended for your rejuvenation treatment will ultimately depend on your skin type, the concerns you’re looking to target, your skin tone, and the amount of downtime you are comfortable with. To guarantee ideal cosmetic results and prevent potential unwanted side effects, it is always recommended to have your chemical peel treatments with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC.

In addition to treating acne and scars, chemical peels are commonly used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage over time. Actinic keratoses are pre-cancerous skin lesions caused by excessive sun exposure, which can also be treated with chemical peels. Chemical peels can also help improve discoloration associated with sunspots, age spots, and melasma. Dr. Green is an expert in the field of cosmetic dermatology with over two and a half decades of experience providing chemical peels to some of the most discerning men and women from around the world and will work with you to develop a customized chemical peel treatment plan that is best suited to your needs and goals.

Where can I get a chemical peel for my face?

The best place to get a chemical peel is the office of an experienced board-certified dermatologist. A dermatologist is an expert regarding skincare treatment options for patients of every skin type and skin tone and can customize your treatment plan to ensure that it is safe and effective. Dr. Michele Green in New York City is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience treating breakouts and acne scarring with the best non-invasive treatment options, including chemical peels. It is not advised to have chemical peel treatments in a medical spa setting or to order chemical peel solutions online. Incorrectly using chemical peel treatments may result in unwanted or dangerous side effects, such as hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, burning, and scarring. Consulting with a dermatologist like Dr. Green will help guarantee that you achieve and maintain ideal results and prevent any unwanted side effects.

Do chemical peels clear acne?

Chemical peels are famous for their anti-aging benefits but are also an excellent acne treatment option that can help keep pores clear, reducing active acne and preventing new breakouts. To treat active acne, most patients require a series of chemical peels, each spaced approximately four weeks apart. Depending on the severity of your skin condition, Dr. Green may also recommend a combination of oral or topical medications, specially formulated skincare products, and other in-office treatment options, such as acne surgery. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will collect a thorough medical history, physically assess your skin condition, and review previous treatment options you may have tried. She will then work with you to create a customized acne treatment plan that best suits your needs and aesthetic goals for a long-lasting, clear complexion.

How does a chemical peel treat acne?

A chemical peel can be an excellent acne treatment because it is an exfoliating procedure that removes dead skin cells and debris from the skin’s pores and kills acne-causing bacteria. Acne vulgaris is a skin condition that occurs when dead skin cells, acne-causing bacteria, and debris clog the pores, leading to inflammation and irritation. By keeping the pores clear and inhibiting the growth of acne-causing bacteria, chemical peel treatments can reduce active acne and prevent new breakouts. Depending on the severity of the acne and the patient’s skin type, Dr. Green may recommend oral and topical medications and specially formulated skincare products be used in conjunction with the chemical peels. Your acne treatment plan should always be customized to meet your needs, and Dr. Green is here to help.

How does a chemical peel treat acne scars?

Chemical peels can be an excellent acne scar treatment option because they stimulate new collagen production and remove the discolored, dead skin cells to reveal healthy new cells. Collagen is the most abundant skin protein, providing a firm foundation and structural support. Depressed acne scars form when the inflammation associated with acne lesions causes irreparable damage to the underlying skin tissue, destroying collagen. By replenishing collagen and accelerating the rate of skin cell turnover, chemical peel treatments can significantly improve the appearance of acne scarring, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and other skin concerns, including melasma, fine lines, dullness, and irregular skin texture.

What month is best for chemical peels?

Chemical peels can be performed throughout the year. However, when you consult Dr. Green, she may recommend withholding chemical peels in the summer. Due to the increased sun exposure in the summer, the risk of hyperpigmentation after specific treatments increases. As such, the most common time to receive a chemical peel is October through May, when the sun is less intense. In winter, your skin can dry and irritated at baseline, so some patients withhold treatment as irritation can increase after a chemical peel. To determine when you should receive a chemical peel for acne and scarring, consult an expert cosmetic dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green.

How to prepare for a chemical peel

Preparing for a chemical peel is straightforward and can help guarantee that you optimize your results. For those with a history of herpes simplex or cold sores, Dr. Green recommends taking an antiviral before your chemical peel to prevent a breakout. It may be suggested that you use a topical retinoid cream for several weeks before your chemical peel to promote skin cell turnover and shorten your downtime afterward. Other specially formulated skin care products, like topical bleaching agents such as hydroquinone, may also be recommended in the weeks leading up to your chemical peel, as this can help to create an even skin tone and prevent hyperpigmentation after the procedure.

Moisturizing, applying sunscreen, and avoiding direct sun exposure daily are essential before and after your chemical peel. Do not shave, wax, or pluck in the treatment area for 24 hours before your chemical peel to avoid irritation. Patients are advised not to use exfoliating products, including Retinols and Retin-A, for 24 hours before the chemical peel. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will review your current cosmetic products and recommend discontinuing certain ones to improve your results and lower the risk of experiencing unwanted side effects from your peel.

What is it like to get a chemical peel treatment?

The first step in having a chemical peel treatment is consulting with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green. Dr. Green will assess the condition of your skin and help you determine the unique combination of treatments best suited to addressing your concerns and achieving your goals. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will help to determine if you are a good candidate for a chemical peel and if it will benefit your acne treatment.

Before chemical peel treatment, your skin will be cleansed of all makeup, sunscreen, and oils. During the peel, a chemical solution is applied to the skin’s surface that removes the outermost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum. The solution is left on the skin for 1 to 5 minutes, depending on the strength of the acid peel. The exfoliation process encourages healthy new skin cells to generate more quickly. As the dull, discolored, dead skin cells are sloughed off, patients observe a more radiant complexion and a reduction of acne and acne scars. Ultimately, patients enjoy new, brighter, healthier, and smoother skin.

How do I select the best chemical peel for my skin type?

Dr. Green offers a range of chemical peels at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood. The type of chemical peel that is best for you will depend on your skin type, skin tone, the skin concern you would like to address, and the amount of downtime your schedule allows. A superficial peel improves the skin’s surface layers, including hyperpigmentation and texture. Dr. Green may advise a deeper chemical peel when addressing deeper lines and wrinkles, especially for problem areas around the eyes (periocular) and mouth (perioral wrinkles). When you consult with Dr. Green, you can discuss your skin concerns and overall aesthetic goals with her. She will help you determine which type of chemical peel is best for your rejuvenation treatment plan based on your unique needs and goals.

What Type of Chemical Peel is best for acne and acne scars?

The best chemical peel for treating your acne and acne scars will depend on your skin type, skin tone, and the severity of your condition. Generally, the best superficial chemical peels for acne consist of glycolic acid or light trichloroacetic acid (TCA). Alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid at 30-50%, are ideal for superficial chemical peels for acne and scars. These acids help unclog the pores and, through exfoliation, remove the dead skin cells. This peeling process opens the pimples and acne breakouts, and the acne is under much better control. Regarding acne scars and hyperpigmentation, the blemishes are lighter when new skin forms after the peel, and the discoloration improves. Dr. Green often combines chemical peels with the home use of her MGSkinLabs lines of skincare products, containing hydroquinones, Retin-a, tretinoin, and Vitamin C serum, to further improve your acne and acne scars.

You may see improvement in your skin’s complexion after one chemical peel. The best results for acne and acne scars are a series of 3 to 6 chemical peels, depending on the degree of acne, scars, and hyperpigmentation. Proper SPF protection should be used throughout this chemical peel process to avoid sun damage. Your new skin will be even-toned and radiant due to the chemical peel.

Best Medium Strength chemical peels

Medium-depth peels are usually performed with a chemical solution containing 20% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or higher. The higher the acid peel strength, the more careful one must be in proper patient selection. When using robust acid solutions, patients with darker skin tones risk encountering unwanted side effects such as hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation from higher-strength TCA peels. Dr. Green will help you decide which percentage and type of acid would be best for your skin type to achieve ideal results and avoid unwanted complications.

A standard medium-strength chemical peel is a Jessner peel. A Jessner peel traditionally combines Lactic acid, salicylic acid, and resorcinol in a 95 percent ethanol solution. There are some health concerns about the resorcinol since it is a phenol derivative, and most of Jessner’s peel is now replacing resorcinol with TCA. This type of chemical peel is called a modified Jessner’s peel. This medium-strength chemical peel involves removing skin cells from the top layer of the skin and the top layer of the dermis. Jessner’s peels have been around for over one hundred years. While they are safe and effective, the specific radio of alpha and beta-hydroxy acids must be maintained with a pH of the overall solution, typically around 1.9. It is essential to control the pH of the acid solution since this controls any unwanted side effects from the chemical peel. Retinols and other AHAs, such as phytic, azelaic, glycolic, and mandelic acids, can modify Jessner’s formulation for added benefits.

The benefits of a medium-strength chemical peel are that while removing the skin cells, it causes new skin to heal and removes more hyperpigmentation for skin lightening, acne scarring, and wrinkles. The result is smoother, softer, tighter, and even skin tone and texture. Again, Dr. Green will help you decide which chemical peel is best based on your skin type and the downtime needed.

Deep chemical peels

Deep peels are rarely performed because of the long healing time required and the higher risk of hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation to the skin. Deep peels remove skin cells from the epidermis and mid to lower dermal layer. Deep peels are recommended for deep lines, wrinkles, scars, and extensive sun damage. Most patients prefer a series of light or medium-strength peels, which have a cumulative effect over such a strong chemical peel over time.

A deep peel can only be performed once. Deep chemical peels cannot be done on patients with darker skin tones since this can damage the skin. There can often be a significant contrast in coloration after a deep peel in the treated area compared to the untreated skin. Deep chemical peels are not needed to treat moderate acne. Since deep chemical peels are painful, they require anesthesia or pain management both before and after the procedure. You will leave the office with your face bandaged after the process. Due to the extensive recovery time and potential side effects, Dr. Green does not perform these deep chemical peels.

Cosmelan Peels

The Cosmelan peel is a two-step depigmentation treatment that removes dark spots and regulates melanin production to prevent their reappearance. Melanin is the component of the skin that provides pigment or color, and excessive melanin production can result in hyperpigmentation and melasma. The Cosmelan peel can eliminate or reduce melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation associated with acne scars, skin discoloration from excess sun exposure, and other forms of hyperpigmentation.

To achieve and maintain the best cosmetic results, it is essential that both during and after the Cosmelan peel, patients limit sun exposure and use proper sun protection. Sun exposure to the treatment area can worsen the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots even after the Cosmelan treatment is complete. When you have your depigmentation treatment with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will provide you with the homecare guidelines, including an ideal skincare regimen, to ensure you get the best skin rejuvenation results.

Mesopeels

A Mesopeel is a chemical peel that can address facial and body hyperpigmentation. A series of Mesopeels can effectively fade unwanted pigmentation from melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and sun exposure. Mesopeels are designed to treat and fade the appearance of visible skin discoloration and dark spots and gently and efficiently treat photoaging. Delicate areas of the body such as the inner thighs, groin, axillae, face, and under eyes may be impacted by hyperpigmentation. These delicate areas cannot be treated with traditional chemical peels, which are far too irritating for use on sensitive skin in these areas. Mesoestetics designed Mesopeels to be used on sensitive skin in delicate areas. Mesopeels gently treat hyperpigmentation by decreasing the melanin that leads to dark spots. The treatment includes peptides encouraging the skin to renew, revealing softer, brighter skin that is more even in tone and texture. Dr. Green will work with you to customize your mesopeel treatment to perfectly cater to your needs and result in a healthier overall complexion that lasts.

Treating PIH (Post-Inflammatory Pigmentation) from Acne Breakouts

When acne resolves, it can sometimes leave behind frustrating dark spots. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) refers to the dark spots that may be left behind after an acne lesion or other inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema. The color of the dark spots associated with PIH can vary from brown, black, or purple patches of skin, depending on skin tone. There are many ways to treat PIH, including chemical peels, microneedling with depigmentation serum, laser treatments, or topical bleaching creams. The first step in treating your post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is to consult an expert like Dr. Green, who will evaluate your skin tone and PIH before creating an individualized treatment plan.

Chemical peels such as Cosmelan and Mesopeel were designed to minimize hyperpigmentation in any skin tone, making them excellent options for treating PIH. Microneedling stimulates the body’s natural healing process. The micro-injuries created from the procedure allow the absorption of the depigmentation serum, improving areas of discoloration and lightening the skin. The VBeam laser targets redness from blood vessels in acne scarring and PIH, while lasers such as the Fraxel laser target the melanin in melanocytes. Dr. Green often recommends combining the different treatment options for optimal results.

Bleaching creams contain active ingredients like hydroquinone, arbutase, and kojic acid, which work to inhibit melanin production in the skin. Skin bleaching creams must be used correctly and cautiously, as incorrect usage can leave the skin hypopigmented, hyperpigmented, or discolored. Bleaching creams should always be used under the supervision of an expert dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, to prevent any adverse reactions. Dr. Green often prescribes tretinoin with these skin lightening agents because it increases skin turnover, treating existing hyperpigmentation.

Consistent sun protection is the most essential part of treating PIH. Sun exposure will worsen any hyperpigmentation, negating any treatments you are using. You should use chemical and mineral sunscreen, reapplying every two hours.

DIY at-home chemical peels

Dr. Michele Green cautions against using at-home chemical peels. The first consideration is understanding if you have sensitive skin and have a safe and effective chemical solution from a reputable cosmetic company. You may benefit from using glycolic or salicylic acid at-home pads if your skin is sensitive. Glycolic acid peel pads are perfect for oily skin types and exfoliate the top layer of your skin. Lactic acid is suitable for all skin types and fading acne scars. Mandelic acid and Phytic acid are good for fading dark spots on darker skin tones, especially for patients with sensitive skin or suffering from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne. When looking at treatment options for at-home chemical peels for your acne or blackheads, avoiding strong acids is essential since these chemical peeling agents can cause blisters and scarring if misapplied. The best course of action regarding safe and effective chemical peels is to consult an expert dermatologist like Dr. Green in NYC.

TCA Cross to treat acne scars

TCA, or trichloroacetic acid, Cross is a chemical treatment best used on atrophic ice pick scars and works by stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin. The TCA Cross treatment works by depositing a small amount of 70%TCA directly into the indentations on the skin, as opposed to a TCA peel, which is used to treat the entire face. When placed directly into the deep scars, the TCA Cross triggers the body’s natural healing process, producing collagen and elastin. These proteins help the body to produce new skin cells that fill in the indentations in the skin and make the skin appear lighter and brighter. The treatment is unsuitable for patients with type 3 or darker skin, as there is a risk of hyperpigmentation. Dr. Green recommends between 3 and 5 treatments for optimal results spaced 6-8 weeks apart. The production of new collagen can begin as little as four weeks following the treatment, with ongoing improvements to the skin surface for as long as four months following each procedure.

What is the best peel for active acne?

Salicylic Acid peels, or beta hydroxy acid (BHA) peels, are an excellent acne treatment option for mild to moderately severe acne breakouts. Salicylic acid peels can treat acne, melasma, and pigmentation on the skin. These beta hydroxy acid peels can penetrate deeper layers of skin than AHA peels (glycolic acid and lactic acid). They can treat skin concerns like blemishes or pore congestion more effectively. Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, meaning it can easily penetrate the skin’s pores to break up excess sebum and dead skin cells, clearing congestion and reducing acne. Additionally, salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce irritation due to acne breakouts and can help prevent scarring. Most patients require a series of four to six salicylic acid peels for treating acne; each spaced approximately four weeks apart. The total number of beta hydroxy acid peels needed ultimately depends on the severity of your skin condition. Patients with more severe acne will require more acid peels. There is little to no downtime associated with this type of acid peel. Common side effects can include redness, peeling, and dryness, which resolve independently shortly after treatment.

Chemical peel – 6 months before and after

How long does your face look bad after a chemical peel?

Since there are so many different types of chemical peels, you can expect varying degrees of downtime and peeling, depending on the type of chemical peel. For example, medium peels will flake and peel off in several days, removing dead skin. Deep chemical peels may blister and swell and can take up to one to two weeks to heal. Other chemical peels, such as a mesopeel for intimate areas, are designed to have little or no peeling in these sensitive areas. When you consult with an expert board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green, they will inform you of the expected downtime of the chemical peel they recommend for you.

Does acne come back after a chemical peel?

Some acne breakouts can sometimes occur with a chemical peel. It is essential to refrain from popping or picking at the pimple-like bumps, as picking these lesions can cause additional unwanted scarring. Purges occur because the intense exfoliation associated with the chemical peel rapidly forces impurities from deep within the pores to the skin’s surface. Patients with persistent active acne vulgaris who undergo chemical peel treatments for their breakouts may require oral or topical medications in conjunction with their peels. To keep your skin clear, healthy, and pimple-free, Dr. Green will work with you to create a customized acne treatment plan that incorporates a combination of in-office treatment options, oral medications, topical treatments, and specially formulated skincare products best suited to your skin type, needs, and skin tone.

How long does acne last after chemical peels?

After an exfoliating chemical peel, debris and dead skin cells brought to the surface can cause acne-like lesions that last, on average, ten to fourteen days. The best practice for treating post-peel breakouts is keeping your skin clean and hydrated, as it is more susceptible to bacteria and sun damage. The breakouts should clear within two weeks, leaving you with clear and healthy skin. If the acne persists, Dr. Green may recommend oral or topical treatments in addition to the chemical peels to help you reach your aesthetic goals. To keep your skin clear, healthy, and acne-free, Dr. Green will work with you to create a customized acne treatment plan that incorporates a combination of in-office treatment options, oral medications, topical treatments, and specially formulated skincare products best suited to your skin type, needs, and skin tone.

How to treat acne after a chemical peel

The purge will resolve independently and more quickly than traditional acne vulgaris. In addition, avoid using harsh exfoliating ingredients for several days after your peel. As the chemical peel is an exfoliation treatment, any powerful active ingredients could cause or exacerbate skin irritation while healing. Stick to gentle, nourishing moisturizers to enhance your natural protective barrier. Most importantly, limit sun exposure and use a broad-spectrum, non-comedogenic sunscreen to protect your skin after a chemical peel.

When you consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green at her private office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will provide all the aftercare information required to ensure you achieve and maintain ideal results. Dr. Green will select the chemical peel and skincare products included in your acne treatment plan depending on your skin condition, needs, skin type, and goals. Upon your consultation, Dr. Green will collect a thorough medical history, physically evaluate your skin condition, and work with you to develop a customized acne treatment plan that includes the skincare products to help you achieve and maintain clear, smooth, healthy skin.

Recovery time and expected results from a chemical peel

A superficial peel, such as one to improve moderate acne or acne scars, requires very little recovery time, with some dryness for a few days. Recovery from a medium-depth peel generally takes about one week, with redness and flaking. After a deep chemical peel, several weeks or more must be allowed for a complete recovery. A light to medium-depth chemical peel, including those used to treat acne and scars, has no discomfort. Patients may feel slight stinging during a light to medium-depth peel that lasts a few minutes and has minimal recovery time. On the other hand, a deep chemical peel may require significant pain medication and significant recovery time.

How do I take care of my skin after a chemical peel?

Dr. Green will review the best skin care products to use at home after your chemical peel. It is essential to continue moisturizing your skin after your chemical peel with thick moisturizers that do not contain any irritating ingredients. Daily moisturizers counteract the irritation or peeling from the chemical peel. A gentle skin cleanser is also important to use. Dr. Green recommends avoiding retinoids, Retin-A, exfoliating products, and alpha hydroxy acids for one week after the peel or until your skin returns to normal. Careful and consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 50 is essential to prevent further discoloration and the recurrence of pigmentation. Your new skin is more susceptible to the sun after your chemical peel, so the daily use of sunscreen is critical to prevent hyperpigmentation and sunburns.

What is the Best Skin Care to use with chemical peels?

If you are undergoing treatment for your acne at the same time as your chemical peels, Dr. Green will most likely prescribe a topical antibiotic for daily use. In addition, using a retinoid, Retin-A, or Differin gel at night helps to exfoliate dead skin, control acne breakouts, and make your chemical peels more effective.

Suppose the main objective of your chemical peel is for the discoloration caused by old acne breakouts and scarring, a skin condition referred to as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. In that case, Dr. Green will recommend an individualized regimen of products from her MGSkinLabs line of products, including HQRA (which combines Retin-A and hydroquinone), topical Vitamin C serum (potent antioxidant), and other high-potency hydroquinone topicals to use with your chemical peels. Dr. Michele Green specially compounds these products for her patients and customizes them based on the individual and their skin tone.

Limiting sun exposure and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 are essential aftercare steps following a chemical peel. Chemical peels accelerate the skin cell turnover rate, increasing the skin’s photosensitivity and susceptibility to UV damage. This means that, ideally, patients avoid sun exposure in the treatment areas. Patients should protect their skin by wearing sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sun-protective clothing. Sunscreen should be reapplied every ninety minutes.

What are the side effects of a chemical peel?

An experienced board-certified dermatologist should perform chemical peels to guarantee ideal cosmetic results and avoid unwanted side effects, such as skin discoloration or scarring. Some of the side effects that can potentially occur include:

Redness
Crusting
Increased photosensitivity (sunscreen and limiting sun exposure are essential)
Infection
Herpes flare (If you have a history of herpes infections, an antiviral medication may need to be taken for one week)
Hypopigmentation or loss of pigment
Temporaty Hyperpigmentation or darkening of the skin color
Scarring

What are the downsides of chemical peels?

Light or superficial peels like mesopeels have no downtime or adverse side effects. These peels are designed to be gentle, preventing harsh skin reactions to the peels. However, light peels often must be performed in a series to achieve the desired results.

Medium chemical peels, while effective, have a downtime of around one week. During the days after the peel, the skin may be red or irritated. It can then become dry and flaky before shedding off. Keeping the skin well moisturized during the days after the peel is important to achieve the best results.

Deep peels are rarely performed because of their associated downtimes. They require a lengthy healing time and a higher risk of hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation of the skin. Deep chemical peels cannot be done on patients with darker skin tones since this can significantly damage the skin. There can be a significant contrast in coloration after a deep peel. The treated skin will be much lighter than the untreated skin. Since deep chemical peels are painful, they require anesthesia or pain management both before and after the procedure. Due to their extensive downsides, Dr. Green does not perform these deep chemical peels.

Will a chemical peel make my acne worse?

Your acne treatment plan should be customized to meet your specific needs depending on your skin type, skin condition, and skin tone. A chemical peel can be an excellent acne treatment option for many. However, depending on the type of chemical peel, the treatment can irritate those with sensitive skin or produce unwanted side effects, like hyperpigmentation or discoloration, for those with darker skin tones. To guarantee ideal results and prevent unwanted side effects, it is essential to consult with an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC.

Will a chemical peel help hormonal acne?

Hormonal acne breakouts occur due to various hormone fluctuations related to puberty, menstruation, side effects of certain medications, underlying medical conditions, and menopause. Many patients with hormonal acne experience breakouts in a cyclical pattern. Hormonal pimples are commonly found on the jawline, chin, and cheeks. Often, successfully treating hormonal acne involves using oral or topical medications in conjunction with in-office treatment options. While chemical peels can help hormonal acne breakouts, most patients require hormone-balancing medications to resolve their acne. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in NYC, she will collect an in-depth medical history, evaluate your skin condition, and likely order blood tests to evaluate various hormone levels. She will then work with you to create a customized hormonal acne treatment plan to resolve your breakouts.

Will a chemical peel help cystic acne?

Chemical peels can sometimes help with cystic acne breakouts. Successfully treating cystic acne entails regular exfoliating, which chemical peels achieve. Depending on the strength and type of chemical peel, the solution can penetrate the deeper layers of skin to reduce sebum, dead skin cells, and debris associated with cystic acne. Most patients will require a series of chemical peel treatments, and depending on the severity of their breakouts, Dr. Green may recommend oral medications in conjunction. Often, cystic acne must be treated with oral antibiotics or Isotretinoin.

Do chemical peels help with acne scars?

Many patients ask, do chemical peels get rid of acne scars? The answer is yes! Chemical peels work very well to eliminate acne scars that can form after an inflamed breakout. In particular, they work well to eliminate the appearance of atrophic or indented acne scars and hyperpigmentation that can occur following an outbreak. Chemical peels resurface the skin and trigger the body’s natural healing process for firm, bright skin.

How often should I get chemical peels for acne?

The frequency and number of chemical peels depend on many factors, including the strength of the peel and the severity of the acne and scarring. Some light chemical peels can be applied as often as every two weeks, while medium-strength and deep chemical peels require less treatment but have more significant downtime. The best way to determine how frequently and which type of chemical peel you should receive is to consult with expert board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in her private dermatology office. There, you will receive an individualized treatment regimen based on your needs. Dr. Green is also cautious about considering her patients’ skin type when creating each treatment plan, as some chemical peels are unsafe for all skin types. Most patients can expect to have four to six chemical peels, depending on their treatment plan.

How much do chemical peels cost?

The price for cosmetic peels varies depending on the type of chemical peel, the experience level of your provider, the geographic location of the office where you’re treated, and the number of treatment sessions required to achieve your ideal results. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average price for a cosmetic peel is approximately $750.

Chemical Peels versus Laser Resurfacing

In simple terms, chemical peels and laser treatments are designed to “remove” the top layer of skin and rejuvenate the skin by reducing pigmentation, sun damage, wrinkles, or acne scars. The choice of lasers or peels depends on many factors. The key to the decision is your skin type. Both lasers and peels can safely treat skin types I and II (light skin). For type I to III patients, the Fraxel laser may be an excellent choice for removing pigmentation or treating acne scars.

The Fraxel laser is an FDA-approved treatment for melasma, acne scars, and other hyperpigmentation. The Fraxel laser treats a fraction of the treated area at a time, leaving the surrounding tissue unaffected. As the laser treatment heats the dermis, it stimulates the body’s natural healing process to produce new collagen for expedited rejuvenation. There are three types of Fraxel lasers: Fraxel Dual, Fraxel Repair, and Fraxel Restore. Dr. Green employs the Fraxel Dual laser in her private Upper East Side dermatology office for acne scar treatment. One of the two laser beams in the Fraxel Dual laser, the 1550nm wavelength, uses Erbium technology to reach deep into the dermis layers to jumpstart new collagen production. This, in turn, can tighten and smooth the skin, improving the appearance of acne scars, surgical scars, fine lines, wrinkles, and stretch marks. Typically, acne scars require three to five Fraxel laser treatments, approximately one month apart. There is minimal downtime with some redness after treatment for 48 hours.

However, individuals with dark skin, Fitzpatrick skin types III and higher, are generally more sensitive to lasers, and careful choice of lasers is paramount to avoid pigmentation and worsening of the current condition. As such, gentle lasers such as the eMatrix and Clear + Brilliant are excellent options for people with darker skin tones. Both lasers are FDA-approved for skin rejuvenation, treating acne scars and hyperpigmentation with minimal downtime.

The eMatrix treatment stimulates new collagen and elastin production in the treated area. Since eMatrix uses radiofrequency energy, the non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatment can deliver a considerable amount of heat to remodel acne scars without the potential for encountering unwanted and dangerous side effects such as hyperpigmentation, skin discoloration, and permanent scarring. Typical side effects of the treatment include mild facial redness and skin swelling, which may persist for up to 48 hours.

Clear + Brilliant improves the appearance of pore size, pigmentation, fine acne scars, and the skin’s overall surface. Clear + Brilliant, often called “mini-Fraxel,” can achieve a more even skin tone and texture with zero downtime. Using fractionated laser energy, Clear + Brilliant can stimulate skin cell turnover and collagen synthesis to make way for healthy new skin cells and soften or eliminate acne scars, dark spots, sun spots, and age spots.

Dr. Green is an expert in treating hyperpigmentation caused by lasers and cautions patients with darker skin tones about the importance of doing their research and being treated by an experienced board-certified dermatologist. Dr. Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive cosmetic treatment options, including chemical peels and laser resurfacing treatments. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will recommend the treatment options best suited to your needs and safe for your skin type.

Which is better for acne, Microdermabrasion or chemical peel?

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that can help treat mild breakouts or comedonal acne. However, it is not recommended for more severe acne breakouts or inflammatory acne. The microdermabrasion procedure entails using a handheld device to superficially exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and debris to keep the pores clear. While this can be beneficial for reducing blackheads and whiteheads, more severe cases of acne will require stronger treatment options. Depending on the strength and type of chemical peel, the solution can penetrate the deeper layers of skin to reduce sebum, dead skin cells, and debris associated with acne lesions. Chemical peels are a more effective treatment than microdermabrasion for mild to moderate breakouts. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in NYC, she will assess your skin condition and work with you to determine which acne treatment options best suit your skin type, the type of breakouts you have, and your overall needs.

Are chemical peels good for acne scars?

Chemical peels are very effective at eliminating the appearance of atrophic acne scars. When performed by an expert dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York, they are a safe and effective way to eliminate acne scars on the face. When paired with products from MGSKINLABs, chemical peels eradicate the appearance of acne scars, improve the texture of the skin, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Not only is a chemical peel an excellent treatment for active acne breakouts but it can also be used to help diminish the appearance of acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation associated with acne. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a skin condition characterized by dark spots left behind after an inflammatory injury or wound, including acne. Excess melanin can be deposited during the healing process, causing dark spots. Chemical peels cause increased exfoliation and skin cell turnover, sloughing away the discolored, dead skin cells and revealing healthy, new cells that are more even in skin tone. Chemical peels also stimulate new collagen production. Collagen is a structural skin protein depleted when depressed acne scars form. By replenishing collagen in the treatment area, chemical peels can improve the appearance of acne scars. Most patients require a series of chemical peels to achieve their ideal results, whether targeting depressed acne scars or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Is a chemical peel good for acne?

Chemical peels can be a very effective treatment option for active acne breakouts, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and residual acne scars. However, it is best to consult a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, who can help determine if a chemical peel is the best treatment. Factors such as the type and severity of the acne scars, skin type, skin condition, and skin tone can influence your safest and most effective treatment options. When you first meet with Dr. Green, she will help determine the best acne treatment plan for your needs upon reviewing your medical history, evaluating your skin condition, and discussing previous treatment options.

Will chemical peels remove acne scars?

Chemical peel treatments can help reduce the appearance of acne scars, among other skin concerns such as dark spots, fine lines, and dullness. Unfortunately, chemical peels can not be used to remove acne scars altogether. No cosmetic treatment can completely remove an acne scar or any other type of scar. A scar is the result of permanent damage to skin tissue. When you consult with an expert board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York City, the appearance of a scar can be improved so that it is no longer noticeable. Chemical peels enhance the look of acne scars by exfoliating away the outer layers of skin and promoting the production of new collagen and elastin and the growth of healthy, new skin cells. The damaged, dead skin cells will peel away, and the cell turnover will promote bright, smooth, clear skin that lasts. Because minimal downtime involves chemical peels and their non-invasive nature, many patients combine their chemical peel acne scar treatments with other non-invasive treatment options, including microneedling, laser resurfacing, and subcision with dermal fillers.

Can you do a chemical peel with active acne?

Yes! Patients can benefit from having a chemical peel treatment when they have an active acne breakout. The chemical peel should treat acne by accelerating the skin cell turnover rate, helping to unclog the pores. Depending on your medical history, family history of acne, and the severity of your breakouts, Dr. Green may recommend a unique combination of in-office procedures, specially formulated skincare products, and prescription medications for acne to help best manage the breakouts. Once the acne is under control, patients can engage with acne scar treatments and achieve a clear, healthy, smooth complexion that lasts.

Do chemical peels make you break out?

Some patients may develop pimple-like lesions following their chemical peel treatment. It is normal, however, to have such a breakout or ‘purge’ period after a chemical peel, and any lesions that form should resolve within several weeks to reveal clear, healthy, smooth skin that is more even in tone and texture. The reason for a breakout after a chemical peel is that there can be impurities underneath the skin that have not yet come to the surface. As a result of increasing the skin cell turnover rate and rapid exfoliation, a chemical peel may encourage these underlying impurities to go to the skin’s surface more quickly in the form of pimple-like bumps. Do not pop or pick at the pimples that arise following a chemical peel. The purging induced by the chemical peel treatment will help your skin quickly remove impurities from the pores. Although what’s occurring on the skin’s surface during a purge may resemble a breakout, a purge is only temporary, whereas acne is a chronic skin condition. Purges heal more quickly than acne vulgaris and are less likely to scar. Purges typically occur in areas that regularly develop pimples several days after the chemical peel. In contrast, acne breakouts can show up much later, including in places where you might not usually get pimples. If you are dealing with breakouts after a chemical peel and are unsure whether you’re dealing with a purge or active acne vulgaris, please consult Dr. Green in her Upper East Side NYC office.

Getting started with chemical peels for active acne, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and acne scars

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, with up to 50 million adolescents and adults affected annually. One in every five who suffer from acne is estimated to develop acne scars. For many, breakouts and acne scarring can cause low self-esteem. It can often be a more significant challenge to improve the appearance of acne scars than to resolve the initial breakout, which is why prompt and effective acne treatment is crucial. Luckily, many treatment options, including chemical peels, are available at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in NYC. A chemical peel is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment option that can help eliminate active acne and diminish the look of acne scars, dark spots, dullness, fine lines, and wrinkles. After a series of chemical peel treatments, patients enjoy a healthy, clear complexion that is more even in tone and texture. To safely and effectively treat acne scars, the best first step is scheduling a consultation with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist like Dr. Green.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive treatment options, including chemical peels for acne scar and acne treatment. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy regarding facial rejuvenation, customizing each patient’s treatment plan best to suit their specific concerns and personal aesthetic goals. She is consistently identified as one of NYC’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that incorporates the in-office procedures and specially formulated skincare products to ensure you achieve the smooth, clear, healthy complexion you’re after. To schedule a consultation, please contact the office of Dr. Michele Green online or call our New York City office at 212-535-3088.