Would a chemical peel work on the back to clear acne? (Photo)

Question

Since young, I have always struggled with cystic acne and hyperpigmentation. I recently broke out of picking extremely, but even without picking I still get scars. I don’t have as much cystic acne, but more of irritated red bumps and then of course hyperpigmentation from my shoulder blades all the way down to my lower back. I wold just like to know if I can get a chemical peel for the back and if there are other options to try as well. Thank you.

Stephen Giordano, DO · Answer

Hi. This is a great question! Chemical peels will definitely help clear the acne and also reduce the appearance of hyper-pigmentation. You may require multiple treatments to achieve desired results. I would recommend seeking a local provider who specializes in chemical peels and is experienced with cases like yours. Best wishes!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

David Hansen, MD · Answer

chemical peels are such great procedures and help almost everyone.  You probably need 2-3 peels on the back but they are easy to undergo and work great.

Tonya Boudreaux, MD · Answer

Hello - great question and thank you for the photo. Yes, absolutely, you can get a chemical peel on the back to help with pigmentation, skin texture, and acne. You may require a series of treatments, but I think you will be happy with your results.
Best of luck!

Vibha Gambhir, MD · Answer

Hi. Thanks for your question and for uploading photos. Chemical peels can help with your hyperpigmentation and active acne. I would recommend a series of Vi Peel done monthly for best results. To reduce your risk of causing hyper pigmentation you should not be tan or sun exposed a few weeks before and after your treatment. In addition, a topical cream called Lytera applied to the dark spots twice daily and this will help to lighten the area and enhance the results of the Vi Peel.

Would a chemical peel work on the back to clear acne? (Photo)

Answers (5)