Would a chemical peel get rid of my clogged pores. (photo)

Question

I used a moisturizer with shea butter in it and it made my cheeks have these small bumps

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

Stephen Giordano, DO · Answer

Thank you for your question. It looks like the Shea butter is to moisturizing for your skin where it caused some clogged pores.  If your skin is acne prone I would use something more lightweight. Also you want to make sure that it is oil-free and non-comedogenic. Some great products would be PCA Clearskin, PCA Rebalance, Image Clear Cell Mattifying Moisturizer. I would recommend doing a Hydrafacial with extractions to really help deep cleanse the pores. There is options to the Hydrafacial where you can add on a Glycolic/Salicylic peel.  They are great for extra exfoliation and cleaning of the pores also. There is no downtime with the Hydrafacials. Hope this helped!

Reza Tirgari, MD · Answer

The correct answer is:  it depends.
There are many variety of peels, and we tend to do more than most others, but the choice of peel is very much dependent on your skin type and the type of condition you are trying to address.  Sometimes the right peel is chosen, but more than one treatment is required.
The general answer is Yes, peels are very helpful at opening pores.  I would suggest an in-person consultation with an expert and also the use of Medical-grade peels at a spa where higher concentrations can be used than in esthetician-only practices.

Lisa Jenks, MD · Answer

Chemical peels do help clear clogged pores.  I usually recommend salicylic acid peels when patients are complaining of congested pores, oily skin and/or acne breakouts.However, you may want to first try changing your moisturizer.  Shea butter is known for clogging pores.  I would recommend a moisturizer that is oil-free and not heavy.  In addition, be sure that you are using a physical block sunscreen and mineral based make-up, as neither of those will clog your pores.Best of luck to you.

Dennis Gross, MD · Answer

I would definitely advise switching to a lighter weight, oil-free moisturizer to avoid further clogging your pores. I would also advise a facial during which extractions will clear your skin of these bumps. Chemical peels are also a great way to help clean our your pores and keep skin fresh and break-out free, however for this issue I would advise the oil-free moisturizer and facial to start.

Would a chemical peel get rid of my clogged pores. (photo)

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Answer: Clogged Pores

Answer: Clogged Pores

Answer: Help with Clogged Pores

Answer: Help with Clogged Pores

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Would a chemical peel get rid of my clogged pores. (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Clogged Pores

Answer: Clogged Pores

Answer: Help with Clogged Pores

Answer: Help with Clogged Pores

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

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