Using Chemical Peels for Acne Scars (Pockmarks): How Effective Is It?

Acne scars form as the skin heals after an acne breakout. Acne scars appear as dark marks, raised areas, or indentations on the skin, resulting in uneven skin tone and texture.

Acne scars aren’t created equal. Here are the different types.

• Atrophic scars: These appear as depressions that form when the skin loses collagen, fat, and other tissues.  
• Hypertrophic scars: These scars happen when your body produces too much collagen as it heals. This causes the scar to appear raised, firm, or thick. Hypertrophic scars are less common with acne, but they can still occur.

Chemical peels are most effective for atrophic acne scars. For hypertrophic scars, chemical peels are not usually the first choice. Peels can exacerbate existing hypertrophic scars and even cause new ones to form. Raised scars often require different treatments, such as laser therapy, for optimal results.

Chemical peels use safe, controlled exfoliation to remove the damaged outer layers of your skin. When the solution is applied, it encourages your skin to shed old, scarred cells. This process triggers new cell growth and boosts collagen production.

Over time, this helps smooth uneven texture, soften acne scars, and create a more even complexion. Peels can improve shallow scars, discoloration, and lingering marks left by breakouts.

Though all peels work on the same principle, the results vary based on the type of acid and the depth of the peel. Our office uses deep-strength Phenol Peels, renowned for penetrating the deepest skin layers for complete rejuvenation.

Chemical peels are generally safe for most skin types, but the type of peel used is crucial. Light and medium-depth peels are often suitable for a wide range of skin tones. However, darker skin needs special care because stronger peels may increase the risk of hyperpigmentation.

Additionally, there are certain risks to consider, especially for patients with specific skin conditions. For instance, individuals with eczema, psoriasis, or vitiligo should exercise caution, as their skin is more sensitive and may not heal as expected after treatment. Your Natick board-certified dermatologist will evaluate your skin, select the appropriate formula, and adjust the strength to maximize your safety.