Chemical Peel for Acne and Pimples

Question

Recently, I have had 2 chemical peels which haven't improved my skin very much. Since having the peels, when my pimples heal they leave pits. Before the peels I had never had a problem with this. I had pimples, but they didn't leave pits after healing. Why would this be? Also, should I be getting chemical peels if I still have active acne?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Acne and pimples can be improved with mild TCA peels and topical skin treatments. I use the Melaquin PM and Melapads for patients who have simultaneous brown spots from old acne scars. Surgery90210

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Dear AcneSufferer
Generally chemical peel, usually 10 to 15% trichloroacetic acid are helpful.  These are mild peels that help open up blocked pores.  
You did not indicate who is performing your peels or what strength agent is being used on your skin.
There are an number of proven approaches to helping acne.  I recommend that you find a board certified dermatologist in you area with an interest in treating acne.  I think you will find a comprehensive approach will make a huge difference.

Jeffrey W. Hall, MD · Answer

With this type of problem, we would strongly recommend coming in for a consultation so a staff member can take a look at your skin. The most important thing is to not pick at the skin as the pimples are drying up, as that can leave scarring. Chemical peels are a great treatment for active acne, and a good product to supplement the chemical peels at home would be Retin-A, which is a nighttime product that aids in cell turn over and exfoliation.

Dina D. Strachan, MD · Answer

Chemical peels can be an excellent tool to treat acne.  It is fine to get a peel when you have active acne.  The pits you are seeing are likely the result of the acne, not the peel.  It sounds like you need to see a board-certified dermatologist and get on prescription strength medication for your acne.

Lenore Sikorski, MD · Answer

Chemical peels can help acne especially salicylic acid peels. But one of the most effective treatments for acne is ALA and Vbeam laser treatments.  The ALA lotion is put on and is absorbed by the oil glands.  The Vbeam laser than helps active the ALA and reduces acne lesions and redness.  I often combine this with topical acne medicines for significant improvement.

Chemical Peel for Acne and Pimples

Answers (7)

Answer: Chemical peels for acne and pimples

Answer: Chemical peels for acne and pimples

Answer: If you have open lesions I wouldn't do a peel

Answer: If you have open lesions I wouldn't do a peel

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Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

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Chemical Peel for Acne and Pimples

Answers (7)

Answer: Chemical peels for acne and pimples

Answer: Chemical peels for acne and pimples

Answer: If you have open lesions I wouldn't do a peel

Answer: If you have open lesions I wouldn't do a peel

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.