Best Chemical Peel for Whiteheads and Blackheads?

Hello, Light chemical peels repeated at intervals work best to control outbreaks. Glycolic and Salicylic acids both work well. Deeper peels would be needed to address acne scarring though. Get the acne under control first.

These are really two separate requests. Beta peels with salicylic acid is probably the best agent for removing blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedones). Salicylic acid is able to penetrate into the clogged follicles. Glycolic acid is not as effective since it does not care for the more oily milieu of the follicle. Pre treating with a Retinoid such as Retin A or Tazarac will augment the affect. The other issue is deep acne scars. You would need a moderate to... more

The comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) respond to light chemical peels really well. Jessner's Solutions is 3 fruit acids mixed together and is great for this. 10% TCA is another great peel. These run about $175-250 each and can be done every 2 weeks until you see the results you like. Acne discolorations do good with these peels as well but indented scars need a totally different treatment. Good Luck!

The selection of chemical peel depends on several factors including skin type (color, oily vs. dry, sensitive Rosacea-type skin vs. normal), the amount of down-time you are able or willing to undergo and the location of the skin involved. I suggest you consult a board certified specialist with experience in chemical peeling to review your options with you in person. Good luck.