Medically Reviewed June 2023, by Daron Seukeran, Group Medical Director, for sk:n. Next review due June 2024.

When it comes to dealing with long-term acne, it can sometimes feel like you’ve tried everything and anything to no success. However, finding that magic treatment that will deal with the sore, red cystic acne spots and the scars they can leave behind isn’t impossible.

At sk:n, we understand the negative impact that acne can have on your self-confidence and your life. And although treating the condition may feel like a constant uphill struggle, we are committed to helping you find the right treatment  – such as a course of chemical peels or face peels for acne.

You may have heard the term chemical peel before and associated it with anti-ageing treatments that reduce fine lines and wrinkles – but did you know that chemical peels and acid peels can reduce acne and acne scars too?

If you have ever wondered whether skin peeling is the best way to treat acne, read on to find out more in our latest guide.

What is skin peeling?

Skin peeling is a cosmetic treatment that is also known as a chemical peel. It uses non-toxic acids such as lactic acid, salicylic acid and glycolic acid, which are applied to the face in order to exfoliate, brighten and remove oil, dead skin cells and other debris – all of which can aggravate acne. By removing the top layer of the skin, chemical peels will reveal a smoother, clearer, fresher and newer skin,  which can help to boost your confidence.

Although skin peels and chemical peels are often used interchangeably, it is to be noted that not all skin peels are of chemical nature. Some of them use laser technology.

If you are looking to transform your rough-textured skin, we are sure that you will be pleased with the results of skin peeling for acne.

Are skin peels good for acne?

Have you ever wondered if skin peels are good for acne? If so, you should know that a face peel for acne is a good option to consider when it comes to treating the problem and reducing your spots.

Chemical peels offer a range of benefits for skin that is acne-prone and acne scar-prone. These include:

•         Improving the texture and skin tone of the skin by smoothing it out
•         Lightening and reducing the colour of dark spots
•         Preventing future breakouts by unclogging pores

When it comes to managing acne, choosing a superficial or light peel that uses salicylic acid could help to minimise your spots. In terms of acne scars, your options involve medium or deep peels, including those that use laser technology such as Fraxel or CO2RE laser resurfacing.

Skin peels for acne 

When it comes to chemical peels for acne, the following options are available for you to consider:

• Glycolic Peel

A glycolic peel uses an alpha-hydroxy-acid (AHA) that is colourless and odourless. Derived from sugarcane, it exfoliates your skin by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells. This allows them to be wiped away easily, and as a result smoother skin will be revealed.

• Pyruvic Peel

A pyruvic peel uses an alpha-keto-acid as a medium chemical peeling agent. If you suffer from moderate acne, acne scars, greasy skin or actinic keratosis, it can help to improve your condition.

• Salicylic Peel

Are you looking to clear your pores of dirt, skin cells, and other debris? Then you need to consider a chemical peel with this naturally occurring compound! A salicylic peel will not only deeply cleanse your skin, but it will reduce redness and swelling, and even reduce the appearance of acne scarring as an added benefit.

• Medik8 Universal AHA

This chemical peel visibly brightens, smooths, decongests and revitalises the skin. It’s ideal for those with mild to moderate acne, as a first time peel, or to maintain results from previous skin peels.

• Medik8 Clarity:

Medik8 Clarity is a powerful blend of acids that sink deep into pores to effectively clarify and decongest the skin. This professional peel rapidly brings blemishes under control and dramatically reduces the risk of future breakouts.

Medik8 Clarity chemical peel before and after

View our full range of Medik8 chemical peels.

Skin peels for acne scars

If you’re considering skin peels for acne scars, then visiting a specialist clinic is a good place to start. During your appointment, an expert dermatologist will discuss your concerns with you and recommend a type of peel for acne scars that will suit your skin best. This can either include a chemical peel, or a laser peel.

• Medik8 Rewind

This chemical peel features a targeted formulation that helps to promote collagen production and reduce the appearance of mild acne scarring,  fine lines and wrinkles.

• Spectra Laser Peel

This is a superficial laser peel treatment with no downtime. Unlike deeper laser resurfacing treatments, you are able to apply makeup straight after treatment and carry on with your normal routine. Spectra laser peels are very efficient for those who suffer from mild to moderate acne scarring. 

• Fraxel ® Laser Treatment

This is patented laser treatment which resurfaces damaged skin and encourages the production of collagen and new skin cells. It will diminish the appearance of scars, acne scars, post-acne hyperpigmentation, and other pigmentation such as age spots or sunspots.

• CO2RE Laser Resurfacing

CO2RE is a powerful laser treatment which can rejuvenate and resurface the skin in as little as one treatment. Harnessing laser energy this high-tech laser peel is designed to treat acne scars and blemishes whilst enhancing the texture and tone of the skin.

When considering skin peels for acne scars, it’s important to realise that fully removing the scars is a long-term process, especially if you have severe scarring. The best way to reduce acne scarring in the first place is to manage your acne effectively, which means avoiding picking your spots and damaging your skin.

Key takeaways

The results of a chemical peel for acne can really help to boost your confidence and feel better about your skin and acne scars. By removing the top layer of skin in a safe way, not only will debris, dead skin and oil be removed, but the scars and marks left after acne spots have faded can also be reduced.

If you are interested in a chemical peel for acne or a laser treatment, visiting a specialist skin clinic will ensure that your acne and acne scars are treated safely in the hands of the experts.

At sk:n, our dermatologists recommend at least a course of acne treatment alongside skin care products to get the best results for your skin. Find your nearest clinic and book an appointment today!