Will chemical peels remove acne scars?

Chemical Peels, Acne Scars Treatment, West Malling, Kent

Acne scarring is a common concern for many individuals who have experienced severe or prolonged acne. These scars can have a significant impact on one’s confidence and overall appearance. Among various treatments available, chemical peels are often considered for their effectiveness in reducing the appearance of acne scars. This blog will explore what causes acne scarring, how chemical peels can treat them, how they work, and other effective options such as RF Microneedling, microneedling, and subcision.

Understanding Acne Scarring

Acne scars are the result of inflamed blemishes caused by skin pores engorged with excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. The pore swells, causing a break in the follicle wall. If the rupture occurs near the skin’s surface, the lesion is usually minor and heals quickly. However, if there is a deep break in the wall of the pore, infected material can spill out into surrounding tissue, causing deeper lesions. The skin attempts to repair these lesions by forming new collagen fibres. However, these repairs usually aren’t as smooth and flawless as the original skin. There are two main types of acne scars: hypertrophic (raised) and atrophic (depressed).

How Chemical Peels Can Help

Chemical peels are a popular procedure designed to exfoliate the skin by using a chemical solution that removes the outermost layers of the skin. This process encourages the growth of new, healthier skin, which can improve the appearance of acne scars. There are three main types of chemical peels:

Superficial Peels

These are mild peels that use alpha-hydroxy acids or other mild acids to penetrate only the outer layer of skin. They are suitable for all skin types and are effective for treating mild acne scars.

Medium Peels

These peels use trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or glycolic acid to reach the mid dermal layers of the skin, making them more effective for moderate acne scars.

Deep Peels

These peels use phenol or TCA and penetrate deeply into the dermis of the skin to remove damaged skin cells. They are highly effective for severe acne scars but require a longer recovery time.

How Chemical Peels Work

Chemical peels work by applying a chemical solution to the skin, which causes it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. The new skin underneath is usually smoother and less scarred than the old skin. This process helps to diminish the appearance of acne scars by:

• Exfoliating the Skin: Removing the outer layer of damaged skin helps to reveal a smoother layer of skin underneath. 

• Stimulating Collagen Production: The peeling process stimulates the production of new collagen, which helps to fill in atrophic scars.
• Improving Skin Texture: Chemical peels can improve the overall texture and tone of the skin, making acne scars less noticeable.

Other Effective Treatments for Acne Scarring

While chemical peels can be very effective, there are other treatments available that might be more suitable depending on the type and severity of acne scarring.

Laser Resurfacing

Utilising a combination of technologies, including fractional laser and intense pulsed light (IPL), the Nordlys laser targets the deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production and promote the regeneration of healthy skin cells. This process helps to smooth out the texture of the skin, reducing the appearance of scars and creating a more even complexion. Additionally, the precise targeting of the laser minimises damage to surrounding tissues, resulting in a faster recovery time and reduced risk of side effects. The Nordlys laser is particularly effective for various types of acne scars, including rolling, boxcar, and ice pick scars, making it a comprehensive solution for those seeking to improve their skin’s appearance. In the most severe cases of acne scarring, we may recommend a referral for CO2 laser resurfacing.

Microneedling

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive procedure that utilises fine needles to create tiny, controlled punctures in the skin’s surface. These micro-injuries trigger the body’s natural healing response, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. Over time, this process leads to the repair and rejuvenation of the skin, which can significantly reduce the appearance of acne scars.

The procedure is typically performed using an advanced microneedling pen, which allows for adjustable needle depths. This versatility enables tailored treatments for various types of acne scars, including shallow and deep scars. Microneedling is generally well-tolerated, with most patients experiencing only mild discomfort during the procedure.

Post-treatment, the skin may appear red and feel slightly sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn. These side effects usually resolve within a few days. As the skin heals and new collagen is formed, patients often notice a gradual improvement in skin texture and a reduction in scar visibility. Multiple sessions are usually required to achieve optimal results, making microneedling a gradual but effective method for acne scar treatment.

Subcision

Subcision is a minor surgical procedure specifically designed to treat depressed acne scars, such as rolling or boxcar scars. The procedure involves inserting a fine needle or a special surgical instrument called a subcision needle beneath the scar. The primary goal is to break up the fibrous bands of tissue that are tethering the scar to the underlying layers of the skin.

By severing these fibrous bands, subcision releases the scar from the underlying tissue, allowing it to lift and become level with the surrounding skin. This mechanical release, combined with the body’s natural healing response, leads to the formation of new collagen at the treatment site, further improving the scar’s appearance over time.

Subcision is often performed under local anaesthesia to ensure patient comfort. The procedure typically results in minimal downtime, with some swelling and bruising expected to subside within a week or so.

Chemical peels can be an effective treatment for reducing the appearance of acne scars by exfoliating the skin and stimulating collagen production. However, the best treatment option can vary depending on the type and severity of the scars. Other treatments like RF microneedling, microneedling, laser and subcision also offer promising results and may be considered based on individual needs and medical advice. Consulting with a professional is crucial to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for achieving the best possible outcomes in acne scar reduction.

If you’d like to learn more about the options, click here to enquire or to book a consultation.

Disclaimer: Please be aware that results and benefits may vary from patient to patient taking into consideration factors such as age, lifestyle and medical history.