Can you use Chemical Peels to get rid of scars?

Are chemical peels the best treatment for scars? Is there a better alternative?

Answers from doctors (2)


Celibre Medical Corporation

Published on Aug 31, 2010

If the scars are pigmented (colored) then chemical peels may speed up the process of getting rid of them. This happens because chemical peels increase exfoliation (removal of dead skin cells), causing new skin to develop. In the process, pigmentation that is below the surface of the skin comes to the surface and flakes off. If your scars are from acne and you continue to get acne, then it's likely the chemical peels will not help until you address the underlying issue - the acne.

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Answered by Celibre Medical Corporation

If the scars are pigmented (colored) then chemical peels may speed up the process of getting rid of them. This happens because chemical peels increase exfoliation (removal of dead skin cells), causing new skin to develop. In the process, pigmentation that is below the surface of the skin comes to the surface and flakes off. If your scars are from acne and you continue to get acne, then it's likely the chemical peels will not help until you address the underlying issue - the acne.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Rejuve

Published on Aug 31, 2010

True scars cannot be improved by chemical peels unless you do a TCA 30% peel which only has minimal effect. The chemical peels can be helpful for patients who develop hyperpigmentation (darkened skin) as a result of acne. Some patients call this acne scars. Scars can only be improved with laser resurfacing which entails a CO2 or erbium yag laser. Depending on the severity of the acne 1 to 3 treatments are needed. I have been using the Sciton Profractional laser with good success. Remember, even with the best laser, the deeper scars will never go away completely.

Answered by Rejuve (View Profile)

True scars cannot be improved by chemical peels unless you do a TCA 30% peel which only has minimal effect. The chemical peels can be helpful for patients who develop hyperpigmentation (darkened skin) as a result of acne. Some patients call this acne scars. Scars can only be improved with laser resurfacing which entails a CO2 or erbium yag laser. Depending on the severity of the acne 1 to 3 treatments are needed. I have been using the Sciton Profractional laser with good success. Remember, even with the best laser, the deeper scars will never go away completely.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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