Are Chemical Peels Effective for Treating Acne?
There are many treatment plans for fighting acne, and the scarring that comes with it. One method that is widely used is chemical peels.
Chemical peels are treatments used for acne that involve a chemical solution applied to the skin. During a chemical peel, nothing is actually peeled, what happens is that the top layer of the skin is actually dissolved. When this process happens, the skin wounded. Because of the skin’s natural ability to heal and regenerate new skin cells, this wound prompts active skin cells to form, giving you a smoother appearance, diminished acne, and less noticeable scars.
The deepest, more effective chemical peels are able to remove the complete surface of the skin. These forms of chemical peels are slowly being replaced by laser surgery because they are stronger and cause more damage to the skin.
There are a variety of chemical peels effective for treating acne. These peels include alpha-hydroxy peels, glycolic acid peels, trichloroacetic acid peels, and phenol peels.
Alpha-hydroxy peels are the strongest and most popular of the chemical peels out there. These can be purchased as in-home treatments at a lower strength than in a dermatologist office. Alpha-hydroxy peels work by removing dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. This treatment is effective for treating acne, but also works on fine lines, strips way wrinkles, and can improve skin that has been damaged by the sun.
Glycolic acid peels are in the same family as the alpha-hydroxy peels. These peels are extremely easy and require no down time for recovery. Glycolic acid is actually a form of alpha-hydroxy acid, and can be found in sugarcane, pineapple, grapes, and other fruits. It is also possible to find an in-home glycolic acid kit at the store, but it will not be the same strength as in a doctor’s office. This peel is very effective for treating acne, and the results can last for about a month.
Another chemical peel that is effective for treating acne is, TCA (Trichloroacetic acid). This is also a very popular brand of chemical peel as it can be used for severe acne problems. The level of acid in the solution determines its effectiveness. It is also advised to stay out of the sun after receiving this type of treatment as your skin will become very sensitive to the sun’s ultra-violet rays. This chemical peel is applied to the skin and left on for approximately fifteen minutes. After it is removed, the skin is wounded causing cell activity to begin, and new skin to form. With this chemical treatment, you may notice some tightening of the skin, brown spots will diminish or disappear, a reduction in blemishes, smoothing out of pigmentation, and resurfacing of your skin.
Phenol acid peels are the strongest peels on the market, and can only be administered by a dermatologist. It is generally used to treat wrinkles, and aged skin, but is also very effective in treating severe acne, and acne scarring. Your recovery time is longer with a phenol acid peel, taking a week or longer to heal. The results of this chemical peel can be compared to laser surgery. Phenol acid works by removing the complete surface of the skin, which is why it takes longer for the skin to heal. The solution is applied and left on for about ten minutes. The strength of the acid is determined by your physician, depending on the severity of your acne. There is also a chance of developing cardiac risks with this treatment.
Be sure to speak to your doctor to find out which chemical peel is best for you and the type of acne you deal with.
