Which chemical peel is best for me?Hoping to minimize acne scars on back, butt and arms (photo)

Question

I have type 4 skin tone on the Fitzpatrick scale. I have acne scars on my back, buttocks and arms. They are not pitted or raised. I’ve never had a chemical peel before, and was curious if I could use both a Jessner’s and TCA 20% peel at the same time (layered) or if that would be too excessive since I have never gotten one? I have had one person say that the body can take a layered peel since the skin is much thicker than the face. Should I just use only one of these peels, and if so, which one?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

For your skin type (Fitzpatrick Type 4) and the concerns you've mentioned (acne scars), both Jessner's and TCA peels could potentially be beneficial.Jessner's peel is a medium-depth peel that tends to work well on acne scars, and it's generally safe for darker skin tones. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels can be used in various concentrations, including 20%, and are also effective for treating acne scars.As for layering the two, some professionals do use a combination of peels for enhanced results. However, this should only be done by a trained professional who can monitor your skin's response and adjust the treatment accordingly. Since you've never had a chemical peel before, starting with a single peel could be a safer approach to seeing how your skin responds. Hope this helps.

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

Which chemical peel is best for me?Hoping to minimize acne scars on back, butt and arms (photo)

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Which chemical peel is best for me?Hoping to minimize acne scars on back, butt and arms (photo)

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Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

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