Will Chemical Peels Help Acne Scars? Exploring Their Role in Clearer Skin

Acne scars can be a frustrating and persistent skin concern, leaving behind uneven texture, discoloration, and lasting marks that can be embarrassing reminders of past struggles with acne. While some scars may fade over time, others remain visible and affect the skin's overall appearance. Chemical peels offer a customizable, noninvasive solution to improve acne scars by promoting skin renewal and restoring a more even, radiant complexion.

At The DeRosa Center in Boston, MA, double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jaimie DeRosa and our team of aesthetic specialists provide a range of chemical peels designed to reduce and fade acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines. If you're looking for a nonsurgical way to refresh your skin, chemical peels could be an effective option.

How do chemical peels work for acne scars?

Generally speaking, chemical peels work by exfoliating the outer layer of the skin, encouraging new skin cell turnover, and stimulating collagen production. When it comes to acne scarring, chemical peel treatments can help:

• Reduce discoloration caused by post-acne marks
• Smooth the texture of pitted or atrophic acne scars
• Brighten overall skin tone for a more even complexion
• Minimize active breakouts by unclogging pores and reducing oil production

Different strengths and types of chemical peels can be customized to target mild to more severe acne scars based on your skin type and treatment goals.

Which chemical peel is best for acne scars?

At The DeRosa Center, we offer several types of chemical peels, each designed to address specific skin concerns. Some of our most popular chemical peels include:

• VI® Peel — A versatile peel available in different strengths, VI Peel can help reduce pigmentation and acne scars while promoting skin clarity.
• RevePeel® — A medical-grade peel that penetrates deep into the skin, ideal for treating stubborn discoloration and deeper scars. Some peeling may occur for about a week following treatment.
• Enlighten® Peel — A powerful brightening peel that can help correct post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from acne.
• TCA Cross — This targeted technique applies trichloroacetic acid (TCA) directly to individual acne scars, helping pitted scars fill in over time with new collagen production,

During your consultation, our knowledgeable aesthetic team will perform a comprehensive skin assessment to determine which peel is suited for your acne scars and other concerns.

How soon will I see results after a chemical peel for acne scars?

Results from a chemical peel depend on the type and depth of the peel — as well as your skin's response to treatment, chemical peel aftercare routine, and other factors. In general, light chemical peels may show brighter, smoother skin within a few days, while deep chemical peels often require more time for healing and full results to appear. Most patients notice continued improvement in their skin for weeks or even months after treatment. For patients with deeper acne scars, a series of chemical peels may be recommended for optimal results. Our team will create a customized treatment plan to gradually refine your skin texture and tone over time.

How do you care for skin after a chemical peel to make results last?

To avoid unwanted chemical peel side effects — including delayed healing and prolonged sensitivity — while also preserving the benefits of your chemical peel and keep acne scars fading, consider the following chemical peel aftercare tips:

• Daily sunscreen use to prevent hyperpigmentation
• A gentle skin care routine to avoid irritation and maintain hydration
• Follow-up treatments as recommended by Dr. DeRosa and our team
• Additional treatments, such as microneedling or laser therapy, for enhanced skin rejuvenation

With healthy lifestyle habits, proper skin care, and the guidance of our dedicated aesthetic providers, you can finally say goodbye to acne scars and hello to the smoother skin you've been dreaming of.

Kick acne scars to the curb with a personalized acne scarring chemical peel in Boston, MA

If acne scars are preventing you from feeling confident in your skin, a customized chemical peel may be the solution you've been looking for. At The DeRosa Center, our team — under the direction of double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jaimie DeRosa — specializes in advanced, noninvasive skin rejuvenation treatments like chemical peels that help patients achieve brighter, healthier-looking skin. To learn more about chemical peels for acne scars or to schedule a personalized consultation in Boston, MA, contact The DeRosa Center today.