What chemical peel works best for my type of acne scars? (photo)

Question

I have a lot of small indented acne scars and I am desperate to know what kind of chemical peels would help vanish them away. I’m currently doing glycolic acid peels for my hyper-pigmentation, but I know I need something more intense to get rid of my suppressed scars. I was considering tca peels, but I don’t know what percentage would work best. Please give me any recommendations on procedures that can possibly help me get rid of these scars. In this photo, I am wearing foundation.

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

Glenn Messina, MD · Answer

Acne scars are difficult and I see you have colt of ice pick scars which are notoriously difficult. Glycol peels will help a little, you would require the deep peels such as a phenol peel. However, do NOT go just anywhere go to a medical doctor well versed and trained in deep phenol peels. that peel is not to be taken lightly, speak to a professional and see if they believe you are a candidate.

What chemical peel works best for my type of acne scars? (photo)

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What chemical peel works best for my type of acne scars? (photo)

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