Can you do chemical peels 1 month after accutane?

Question

Looking to fix up some acne scalars and texture issues as a result of acne scars. I’m currently doing RF microneedling, had one session with no results yet. Would chemical peels be okay?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Acne scars are usually characterized within the subtypes of atrophic, hypertrophic, pigmented, or inflammatory. These subtypes of acne scars can be visually discerning in ambient light and can cause significant cosmetic concerns. Indented and atrophic scars require a combination approach to stimulate collagen and elastin, thereby smoothing contour and uneven skin. These are usually combined with lasers and depigmentation protocols to reduce inflammatory hyperpigmentation (Melarase AM and Melarase PM). Our Hidef protocols for acne scars include fillers such as Sculptra, Juvederm, Radiesse, and Restylane to improve deep acne scars; Vascular lasers to reduce inflammation and post-inflammatory redness and erythema; Fractional lasers to smooth contour and collagen; and Fractional RF to stimulate production of collagen within atrophic scars. Textural improvement and superficial scarring can be improved with Cosmelan peels, TCA Cross for ice-pick scars, deep chemical peels, and fractional CO2. We offer a personalized approach to your combination of scars and a formal evaluation with consultation is recommended to help you achieve your final results. Our plastic surgery office offers subcision and combination TCA Cross to help reduce deeply pitted scars. In terms of pigmentation and skin resonance, we recommend daily use of Melarase AM and Melarase PM coupled with Retinoid creams to achieve brilliant skin.

Best, 
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Narin (Joe) Apisarnthanarax, MD · Answer

Yes, you can have chemical peels and laser after Accutane, if it has been longer than 6 months. The best approach is to consult with a experienced dermatologists and get an assessment and individualized recommendation on what treatments would best work for your skin type, and ensure that your plan to achieve a fresh and smooth complexion is safe and effective.

Nicholas S. Karter, MD · Answer

It is generally recommended to wait at least six months, and usually one year, after taking Accutane to try any kind of facial resurfacing including chemical peels. Accutane works by suppressing the cells in the pilosebaceous units (where the hair follicle, oil glands, and sweat glands are). It is these same pilosebaceous units that are responsible for the majority of healing after a chemical peel. Doing a peel to early after Accutane treatment can result in permanent scarring. I would recommend waiting at least another five months and eleven months if you can prior to considering resurfacing of your acne scars. It is not worth the added risk. I hope this helps, good luck!!

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello tanukimeg,Accutane can be a great treatment for acne.  However, it does a number on the sweat glands in the face (which is why it is so drying).  These same sweat glands are what is responsible for the skin healing following a resurfacing procedure.  If they aren't working, the risk of scarring goes way up.  For that reason, I advise all of my patients to wait at least a year after finishing accutane before starting any type of resurfacing treatments, like a chemical peel. I hope this helps and good luck.

Can you do chemical peels 1 month after accutane?

Answers (4)

Answer: Can you do chemical peels 1 month after accutane?

Answer: Can you do chemical peels 1 month after accutane?

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.

Can you do chemical peels 1 month after accutane?

Answers (4)

Answer: Can you do chemical peels 1 month after accutane?

Answer: Can you do chemical peels 1 month after accutane?

Browse related questions

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.