Can Chemical Peels Help with Persistent Acne?

If you’ve been dealing with acne for what feels like forever, you’re not alone. Many teens grow into adults still struggling with persistent acne, and it can take a toll on their confidence and skin health. 

While drugstore treatments might help a little, long-term relief often requires a more professional, targeted approach. That’s where chemical peels for acne come in.

At Westchester Cosmetic Dermatology, we work with patients across Westchester and Scarsdale to create personalized acne treatment plans—and yes, that may include a medical-grade chemical peel or two.

Do Chemical Peels Help With Acne?

If you’ve only thought of chemical peels as a way to achieve glowing skin before an event, you might be surprised to know how effective they can be for acne. 

A peel works by exfoliating the outermost layer of your skin using a carefully selected blend of acids. That gentle resurfacing helps unclog pores, reduce oil production, and encourage cell turnover, all essential steps in clearing and preventing breakouts.

But the benefits don’t stop there. Peels also help fade the dark marks and uneven texture that acne can leave behind. 

Why Go Professional Instead of DIY?

The truth is that not all peels are created equal. Over-the-counter versions may give your skin a quick glow, but they’re not formulated to treat active or persistent acne. 

Professional acne treatments, on the other hand, are customized to your skin’s condition and tolerance, with results that go far beyond the surface.

At our clinic, we assess your skin first and then decide on the right type and strength of the peel. For some patients, we recommend a series of lighter peels spaced a few weeks apart; for others, a deeper peel might make more sense. Depending on your skin’s needs, we often combine peels with prescription topicals, lifestyle guidance, or other treatments.

Peel or Something Else? Comparing Acne Treatment Options

There are plenty of acne treatments available, and navigating them can be confusing. Topical creams and cleansers are usually the first step, but they don’t always address deeper inflammation or post-acne scarring. 

Oral medications can be effective for some people, but not everyone wants to commit to daily pills or deal with potential side effects. Laser treatments, while powerful, might feel too aggressive or expensive for where you are right now.

In comparison, a chemical peel is a relatively low-commitment, high-reward option. It treats multiple aspects of acne—active blemishes, clogged pores, oiliness, and post-inflammatory marks—without a lengthy recovery time or major lifestyle changes. That balance makes it a great addition to a broader acne management plan.

What It Feels Like (and What to Expect After)

You might feel tingling or warmth as the solution is applied during your peel, but the process is quick and well-tolerated. Afterwards, your skin may feel a bit tight or look slightly pink. Over the next few days, you might notice mild peeling or flaking—nothing dramatic, just your skin doing renewal work.

Patients often see noticeable breakouts and overall skin texture improvement with consistent care and follow-up. It’s a gradual process, but you’ll likely notice smoother, clearer skin looking back at you in the mirror with each session.

Personalized, Supportive Care You Can Count On

At Westchester Cosmetic Dermatology, we’re all about helping you find what works for your skin. Whether it’s professional chemical peels for acne or post-breakout scarring, we’re here to help you get the results you’ve been hoping for.

And if you’re wondering who’s behind all of this—our founder, Dr. David Kriegel, was recently recognized by his peers as one of New York’s top doctors in 2024. His selection was featured in New York Super Doctors, published in The New York Times Sunday Magazine on May 4, 2025. It’s a nice reminder that when you walk through our doors, you’re in trusted hands.

Thinking about trying a peel or just want to talk through your options? Let’s chat. Schedule a consultation and we’ll figure it out together.