Removing acne scars is usually a top priority as for most, they are a constant reminder of previous battles with acne. However, this is not always a simple task. Chemical peels are a common suggestion of doctors, dermatologists, and skin specialists in the treatment of acne scars, but is this a wise choice?

THE GOOD: CHEMICAL PEELS CAN BE SUCCESSFUL WITH MILD ACNE SCARS

Chemical peels involve a layering of acid onto the effected area, which then burns away at the top layer skin, disintegrating it until it is able to be peeled off. Once peeled a fresh layer of new, smooth skin is exposed and brought to the surface resulting in a clearer appearance and a reduction of most mild acne scars.

THE BAD: CHEMICAL PEELS LEAVE THE SKIN SORE AND RED

As a rule of thumb, the deeper the chemical peel, the more severe and pronounced the recovery. Even the most shallow of chemical peels will require a recovery period where the fresh, exposed skin may appear unusually red, crusty, swollen, and be sore to touch for at least the first few days. However, with deeper chemical peels that use much more potent acid the recovery period can stretch for close to three weeks, and when multiple treatments are required, which is usually the case, this can be somewhat of a debilitating process.

THE UGLY: CHEMICAL PEELS AND THEIR SIDE EFFECTS

It is important to remember that regardless of the results, chemical peels bring with them a list of dangerous side effects. The side effects for patients who undertake deeper peels may include unintended color changes in the skin, which is also known as hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation, as well as lines of demarcation and pigment imperfections that may leave the new skin unable to tan.

THE SAFER OPTION: USE A NATURAL EXFOLIATION PRODUCT

Because your skin is sacred it should not be treated as a science experiment. Exposing your skin to corrosive acids associated with severe side effects is dangerous business, especially when there are safe, natural treatments available that effectively remove acne scars.