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Chemical Peels for Acne Scarring
   Alpha hydroxy acid peels can help acne scarring
   Acne scars result from body's attempt to remove blockage from pores
   Alternative treatments also available

AHA Peels Can Improve Acne Scars

Chemical Peels such alpha hydroxy acid peels can help acne scarring in a way similar to topical retinoids. Stronger peels, such as TCA peels, are ablative and can remove the whole surface layer of the skin. In my opinion these are not first line treatments for acne scarring.

Acne Scars, Unpleasant Reminders

Acne is a difficult and unsightly problem. Initially we have to deal with the acne itself, then it adds to the problem by leaving scars on our skin, forever reminding us of our bad skin.

What Causes the Scars

Our skin has sebaceous glands, which produce oil to moisturize our skin. Acne-causing bacteria metabolize this oil and the by-product of this is irritating to the skin. As our skin becomes irritated, follicles can clog and collect debris. This may then erupt down into the deeper skin layer, the dermis, and further irritate the skin.

The dermis identifies this debris as a foreign body to be removed. As the body naturally responds to remove this debris, an inflammatory response takes place which can result in a scar. Acne scars are similar to other scars in that that are the result of a wound which has healed, leaving collagen behind. The difference is that the scars generally occur in the skin's deeper, dermis layer.

Alternative Treatments

Consult with an experienced physician to determine which treatment is the best suited for your acne scars.

For further reading on peels, see: Chemical Peels Comparison Chart, Pre-Treatment Questions, & Choosing a Physician
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Last Modified: January 2, 2008

Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Chemical Peel? What is TCA Peel (Trichloroacetic Acid)?
What can a Chemical Peel Treat? What are Phenol Peels?
Does a Chemical Peel Hurt? What is an Erbium Laser?
How much does a Chemical Peel Cost? What is a CO2 laser?
What are the Recovery Times? What is Hypopigmentation?
How long does it take? What is Hyperpigmentation?
Are there possible side effects? What is the Stratum Corneum?
What are Alpha Hydroxy Acid Peels? What is the Epidermis?
What are Glycolic Acid Peels? What are Keratolytics?
The information contained in the above article is purely for educational purposes and is not intended to provide any medical advice. Always consult with your physician before having any medical procedure performed.
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