I am only 18. I had acne on my face so I have scar, not that much noticeable. Is chemical peel a solution?

Question

I never used sunscreen so my face is 3/4 shade darken than my body, then i used neutrogena sunscreen but that didn't suit me, so i stopped. I want to make my face bright (my lips too), and scar free, please give me a right solution

Barbara Padilla, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! Chemical peels are an effective option for minimizing scaring. Chemical peels also improve skin tone and texture while minimizing fine lines and wrinkles as well. It is important to wear sunscreen daily to prevent dark spots (hyperpigmentation) from reappearing. 
Microneedling is another effective option for reducing scaring from acne. Microneedling creates micro injuries on the surface of your skin to promote new collagen and elastin growth. This reduces scaring and creates a more even tone and texture.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Based on your description, it sounds like you are dealing with mild acne scarring and hyperpigmentation due to sun exposure. Here are some potential solutions that might be helpful for you:

Chemical Peels: Yes, chemical peels can be an effective solution for improving the appearance of acne scars and evening out skin tone. They work by exfoliating the top layers of skin, promoting new skin growth, and improving overall skin texture. However, it's important to have a consultation with a dermatologist to determine the right type and strength of peel for your skin type.

Sunscreen: It's crucial to protect your skin from further sun damage. If Neutrogena sunscreen didn't suit you, consider trying a different brand or formulation, such as a mineral-based sunscreen, which is often more gentle on sensitive skin. Look for broad-spectrum protection with SPF 30 or higher.

Brightening Agents: Products containing ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, or licorice root extract can help brighten the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation. These can be found in serums or creams and should be used consistently for best results.

Moisturizers and Lip Care: Keeping your skin and lips well-hydrated is important. Use a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer and a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from sun damage.

Consult a Dermatologist: Since you have specific concerns about your skin, it would be beneficial to consult with a dermatologist who can provide personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your skin's needs.

Please remember that addressing skin concerns takes time, and it's important to be patient and consistent with your skincare routine.

Best wishes for your skincare journey!

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

Best, 
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Paul Flashner, MD · Answer

Chemical peels are a great option when it comes to treating mild acne scarring and discoloration. They work by speeding up the skin cell turnover process, revealing new and brightened skin. Depending on the type of peel, you can have little downtime or a longer downtime period.  It is very important to be consistent and wear SPF in order to prevent any pigmentation from getting darker, or new pigment appearing. Using a vitamin c serum or a brightening serum would be ideal to add in. By doing a series of chemical peels you should expect a difference in both tone and texture of the skin.

Chris Atkinson, MD · Answer

Chemical peel or microneedling or both might help with the scarring. You might also consider combining the two in separate sessions.

I am only 18. I had acne on my face so I have scar, not that much noticeable. Is chemical peel a solution?

Answers (5)

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