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Chemical Peels to Treat Acne and Acne ScarringIf your skin is a source of stress and frustration, an acne treatment to consider is a chemical peel. This can be done by a medical professional, or in a milder form, at home. Acne scars appear on the skin because the tissue is infected then lost while healing. The around the lost tissue heals together, forming a small area on the surface that has soft, curved edges and sides. They may be fairly deep depending on the depth of the original infection or pustule. If the scar left on the skin is somewhat soft, its appearance can be lessened by stretching the skin. If the scar has hardened, it usually is not able to be stretched. While treatment of acne scars is very successful, the success must be viewed in perspective. The skin will not be able to return to the smoothness it had before the acne breakouts. However, with professional medical advice, chemical peels can improve the look of your skin immensely. The natural forms of chemical peels are usually derived from some form of animal or insect. Many of these will work over time to prevent infection and dissolve scar tissue. It has a natural antibiotic that is able to fight typical bacterial toxins produced in the skin that are present in large quantities when acne infections are present. Synthetic chemical peels are available in levels of extremity. The mildest kind of peel removes just the outer skin layers, and must be repeated to see consistent results. These are also performed prior to a stronger peel in order to prepare the skin for other treatments. Professionals usually use a form of acid (glycolic) or solid carbon dioxide (dry ice) to remove the top layers of the skin. The results are not immediate, and are usually minimal, but for many minor cases of acne and scarring, the results are sufficient. The next level of chemical peel actually causes the skin to have a second degree burn to then heal. The acid used for a medium peel not only affects deeper layers of skin than a superficial peel, it also requires a shorter healing time. The results are improved by a second treatment within a few months, and/or pretreatment with an alpha hydroxyl acid. The strongest level of chemical peel is called a “deep peel” and reaches down through several layers of skin. This is a one-time process that also has a risk of bleaching the pigment of the skin. Generally, acne scarring and breakouts are not extreme enough to warrant this type of peel. If you do decide to try a chemical peel to treat acne and/or scarring, be prepared to protect your skin from sun damage. The skin that is revealed will be very sensitive, will probably not tan evenly. Wear sun block when going outside, regardless of the weather or season. The best acne treatment process is to start mildly and increase strength as needed. There are many natural acne treatment options available, and they are very effective. |
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