Acne can leave more than just temporary redness. For many people, the scars that follow can linger for years.
At Bucay Center for Dermatology & Aesthetics in San Antonio, Texas, we see firsthand how much acne scarring can impact a person’s confidence. Our board-certified dermatologists provide professional treatments to help improve your skin texture in a medically supervised setting.
Types of Acne Scars
Not all acne scars are the same, and identifying the type of scarring you have is an important part of planning your treatment. Common types include:
- Ice pick scars: Narrow and deep scars that extend into the skin, often more resistant to topical treatments
- Boxcar scars: Broad, shallow-to-medium-depth scars with well-defined edges that give the skin a pitted look
- Rolling scars: Shallow scars with sloping edges that create a wavy or uneven texture on the skin
- Hypertrophic scars: Thick, raised scars caused by excess collagen production during the healing process
Chemical Peels for Acne Scars
Chemical peels are one of the most commonly used treatments for acne scars, especially when performed by a board-certified dermatologist. We offer the following options, which we select based on your skin and the type of scarring you have:
- Glycolic Acid Peels: A glycolic acid peel encourages cell turnover by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells. It can help soften the appearance of scars and brighten your skin tone.
- Salicylic Acid Peels: We often recommend these peels for those with oily or acne-prone skin. This option exfoliates the surface of the skin while also helping reduce clogged pores and future breakouts.
- TCA (trichloroacetic acid) Peels: This medium to deep peel penetrates further into the skin to smooth more pronounced scarring and even out discoloration.
Other Treatment Options
Some patients get the best results by combining chemical peels with other professional treatments, such as:
- Microdermabrasion: Gently resurfaces the skin to smooth uneven texture. When used alongside peels, it may boost exfoliation and speed up visible improvements.
- Laser Techniques: Commonly recommended for deeper or more stubborn scars, especially when discoloration is a concern. The right laser and settings depend on your skin tone, scar type, and treatment goals.
Smoother Skin Is Possible
Acne scars do not have to be permanent. Call our La Casita office at 210-692-3000 or Sonterra/Stone Oak at 210-370-9995 to schedule your consultation with our team. We’ll help you find the right treatment for your skin concerns in San Antonio.
