DIY Chemical Peel Acne Scars

Chemical peels are cosmetic treatments that can be applied to the face, hands, and neck. They’re used to improve the appearance or feel of the skin. During this procedure, chemical solutions will be applied to the area being treated, which causes the skin to exfoliate and eventually peel off. Once this happens, the new skin underneath is often smoother, appears less wrinkled, and may have less damage.

To make the AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) peel, mix the cane sugar and yogurt until you have a slightly granulated paste. Use your fingers to apply the mask to your face, avoiding the eye area. After 10 to 15 minutes wipe it off with a towel and cool water

There are a number of reasons people may get chemical peels. They may be trying to treat a variety of things, including:

• wrinkles and fine lines
• sun damage
• acne scars
• hyperpigmentation
• scars
• melasma
• uneven skin tone or redness

DIY Chemical Peel Acne Scars

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

Best for oily skin

This peeling solution is water-based and may suit people with clogged pores.

It is free from:

• fragrances
• alcohol
• gluten
• sulfates

The Ordinary recommends using this product in the evenings, and not more often than twice a week. Make sure the skin is dry, leave the product on the skin for up to 10 minutes, then rinse it off with lukewarm water.

Some customer reviews suggest that this peel may benefit people with large pores and oily skin, and that it helps reduce oil production.

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel

Best vegan

This chemical peel may help freshen the skin’s appearance as it exfoliates the outer layer. The company says it also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and provides hydration. It adds that the hyaluronic acid calms the skin and acts as an antioxidant.

A person can apply this product in the morning or evening. The company recommends massaging the product into dry skin until the pad is dry and letting it sit for 2 minutes before rinsing.

According to reviews, this peel can reduce acne scars and improve the appearance of blackheads and rosacea. Dr. Dennis Gross’ products are vegan, cruelty-free, and free from parabens and phthalates.

Bliss That’s Incredi-peel Glycolic Acid Pads

Best for all skin types

Bliss advertises that this product suits any skin type, helps smooth the skin, and protects against environmental damage.

The company recommends wiping the pads gently over dry skin, taking care to avoid the eye area.

Reviewers report that these pads can also make acne scarring less noticeable, and some customers saw immediate results.

GloSkin GlyPro AHA Resurfacing Peel

Best non-irritating

This at-home peel kit includes gauze pads, a headband, a peel neutralizer, and retinol drops.

The company says that the ingredients help calm, exfoliate, and retexture the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines.

It recommends that people avoid exercising for 24–48 hours after using this product and avoid waxing or using other hair removal products for 7 days after the treatment.

Some customers aged 50 years or older reported a reduction in acne scars and signs of aging after the first use of this product. Others also wrote that it did not irritate their skin.

Makeup Artist’s Choice 5 Acid Body Peel

Best for dark spots

Makeup Artist’s Choice says that this product can exfoliate the skin, clean pores, and fade acne scars.

A person can apply the serum to their legs, arms, torso, chest, neck, back, and hands. Leave the product on the skin for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and moisturize.

Some reviewers report that it lightened dark scarring and reduced the appearance of wrinkles.

Glytone Rejuvenating Mini Peel Gel

Best for skin tightening

Glytone says that this product is suitable for all skin types and helps exfoliate the skin and improve its texture.

A person should read the instructions before applying the gel. The company recommends using it on the face and neck after cleansing, 2–3 times a week.

According to reviews, this product reduces blackheads, tightens the skin, and is non-irritating and gentle.

SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator

Best anti-aging

This oil-free serum is a hydrating exfoliant that balances moisture levels, reduces the appearance of lines, and helps restore the skin’s external barrier, its makers say, adding that it is suitable for all skin types.

A person can apply 4–6 drops to their face, neck, and chest twice a day.

The many positive reviews report that it reduces acne scars, redness, and signs of aging.

Exuviance Daily Resurfacing Peel

Best for enlarged pores

The citric acid in this product exfoliates the skin. The company says that anyone can use it, but it may especially suit people with oily skin, enlarged pores, and breakouts.

Clean the face, then wipe a pad over the area once a day, taking care to avoid the lips and eyes.

ISDIN Night Peel

Best for daily use

ISDIN says that this product is safe for nightly use, and it can help reduce dark spots and wrinkles, soften the skin, and provide hydration.

A person can apply the serum to their face, neck, and neckline but should avoid the eye area.

According to reviews, the product can also help with acne, irritation, and redness.

When to see a doctor

The AAD recommends treating acne early to reduce scarring, improve the effects of treatment, and prevent other possible complications of having acne, such as low self-esteem.

A healthcare professional can say whether a person is likely to benefit from a chemical peel, taking their skin type and other health factors into consideration.

Chemical Peel For Acne Scars Cost

The average cost of a chemical peel is around $500, but the price can range from $200 up to $6,000. This wide price range for chemical peel treatments can be attributed to a number of factors that can impact the price of treatment, including:

• Type of chemical peel
• Chemical peel provider
• Consultation fees
• Geographic location
• Recovery expenses⁵

One of the biggest impacts on the cost of a chemical peel is what type of chemical peel you receive. Below is a breakdown of the average cost by type of chemical peel.

• Light chemical peels can cost between $100 to $300 per session. This type of chemical peel is the least expensive. Multiple treatments may be recommended for best results.⁶
• Medium chemical peels can cost from $1,000 to $3,000 per session. Again, multiple treatments may be recommended for best results.⁶
• Deep chemical peels can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $6,000. The final price for the chemical peel will depend on your specific provider and geographic location. These are the most costly type of chemical peels available.⁶

Does Insurance Cover Chemical Peels?

Health insurance plans may not cover the cost of chemical peels if the health insurer doesn’t consider the treatments to be medically necessary. With insurance coverage, out-of-pocket costs for a chemical peel can include deductibles, coinsurance and co-pays. It’s a good idea to contact your insurance company in advance for details about your specific plan and benefits.