I have horrible acne scars. Are chemical peels safe and can they help?

By Dr. Mark Hamilton

Question:
I have always had horrible acne and now have horrible acne scars. I’m very pale with sensitive skin and I’d like to know if a chemical peel would be safe for me and if it would help with the acne and scars.

Answer:
If you have not yet seen a Dermatologist; that would be my first recommendation. You may need an oral antibiotic to help clear the acne from the inside. A chemical peel containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid could help clear acne by working from the outside. I would suggest Microdermabrasion for smoothing your scarring or Co2 Laser Skin Resurfacing could also be an option once the breakouts are under control.

Posted by Mark M. Hamilton M.D. FACS