Best Chemical Peel for Whiteheads and Blackheads?

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis. We see atrophic and hypertrophic scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. 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 discuss the best treatment options for your type of skin. .

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

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!

You are actually asking about completely different skin problems with different approaches.  Scars can best be treated with Fraxel or eMatrix depending on your skin type.  However, whiteheads and blackheads can be treated topically with Differin, Retinols, Gylcolic Pads, Microdermabrasion, Oxygen facials, or Salicylic acid treatments.  Best, Dr.  Green

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.

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 sdeep peel. Phenol or TCA 30% would provide the depth to correct "deep" acne scars.