Nearly 17 million Americans suffer from acne and almost 20 percent of all visits to dermatologists are related to this disease. The study will compare the effectiveness of both chemical peels to see which will benefit the patient and dermatologist by reducing the trial and error that is part of many acne treatment regimens. Chemical peels are primarily used by dermatologists to improve the appearance of aging or sun-damaged skin. Plus, a therapy that can improve acne in fewer treatments will mean less time spent and reduced costs to the patients.
Chemical peels exfoliate, or unclog pores, in the skin.
Alpha-hydroxy acid peels work by unclogging superficial pores, disrupting the environment that allows acne to expand. Beta-hydroxy peels penetrate oily glands that make sebum. Sebum helps to prevent evaporation of sweat. Unchecked, it creates an ideal environment for acne. Then the whitehead or blackhead plug at the top, making it easy for an acne pustule to form underneath it.