Get Flawless Skin on a Budget: 10 Cheap At Home Chemical Peels for Acne Scars

at home chemical peels for acne scars

We all want flawless, radiant skin, but sometimes our skin concerns can be frustratingly persistent, like acne scars. Chemical peels are a popular and effective solution for reducing the appearance of acne scars, but they can be expensive when done at a spa or dermatologist’s office. Luckily, there are affordable and accessible options for achieving the same results at home.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best cheap at home chemical peels for acne scars that won’t break the bank. We’ll discuss the benefits and risks of using chemical peels at home, and provide other alternatives.

So, if you’re ready to say goodbye to those pesky acne scars without draining your wallet, keep reading!

What is a Chemical Peel?

When done correctly, a chemical peel improves your complexion and rejuvenates your skin. But what exactly is a chemical peel, and how does it work? In essence, a chemical peel is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure in which a solution is applied to the skin to remove the outermost layers, revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath.

The solution used in a chemical peel can vary depending on the type and intensity of the treatment, but typically includes acids such as glycolic, salicylic, or lactic acid. Chemical peels can be customized to target specific skin concerns, from acne and hyperpigmentation to fine lines and wrinkles.

Related Article: What are the Best Facial Self Tanners Under $20 in 2023?

What Kind of Chemical Peels are Used to Treat Acne Scars?

Acne scars can be a real pain – both physically and emotionally. They can leave permanent marks on your skin, making you feel self-conscious and embarrassed. But fear not, my friend, for there are many options available to help reduce the appearance of these scars.

Chemical peels are one of the most effective treatments for acne scars.
They work by removing the top layer of skin, which contains dead skin
cells and other debris that can contribute to scarring.

at home chemical peels for acne scars
Before Using an At Home Chemical Peel and After Using an At Home Chemical Peel

Glycolic Acid Peel: First up is the glycolic acid peel. This peel is great for those with mild to moderate acne scars. It works by exfoliating the skin and stimulating collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of scars over time.

Salicylic Acid Peel: Another option is the salicylic acid peel. This peel is ideal for those with oily skin and acne-prone skin. It works by unclogging pores and reducing inflammation, which can help prevent future breakouts and reduce the appearance of scars.

TCA Peel: For those with more severe acne scars, a TCA peel may be the way to go. TCA stands for trichloroacetic acid, and it is a stronger peel that can penetrate deeper into the skin. It works by stimulating collagen production and reducing the appearance of scars. However, it is important to note that this peel can cause more downtime and may require multiple treatments to see significant results.

Jessner’s peel: This peel is a combination of salicylic acid, lactic acid, and resorcinol. It is great for those with darker skin tones, as it can help reduce hyperpigmentation and scarring without causing additional discoloration. It also works by exfoliating the skin and stimulating collagen production.

Benefits and Risks of At Home Chemical Peels for Acne Scars

Benefits: One of the most significant benefits of at home chemical peels for acne scars is that they can improve the texture and tone of the skin. By removing dead skin cells and stimulating the production of collagen, chemical peels can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Additionally, chemical peels can help to unclog pores and reduce the frequency of breakouts.

Risks: at home chemical peels for acne scars can also pose some risks. Overuse or misuse of chemical peels can lead to:

  • Skin Irritation
  • Redness
  • Chemical Burns

It is essential to follow the instructions carefully and to start with a lower concentration of acid before moving on to higher strengths. Individuals with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions, such as rosacea or eczema, may not be good candidates for chemical peels.

Here are 10 CHEAP At Home Chemical Peels for Acne Scars

1. The Ordinary Peeling Solution

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  • Price: $12.99
  • Where to Buy: AMAZON
  • Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Active Ingredient: glycolic acid (30%)
  • Best for: acne prone
  • Skin Benefits: decreases acne as well as scarring and hyperpigmentation, exfoliates, improves skin texture

Probably the best chemical exfoliating mask out there. A little goes a long ways. Take heed if you have extra sensitive skin as this stuff can burn a little, which bottle says not to leave on for longer than 10 min and no more than twice a week. Leaves my skin glowing, smooth and cuts down on my breakouts.
-Verified Customer

2. Makeup Artists Choice

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  • Price: Check Price on Amazon
  • Where to Buy: AMAZON
  • Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars
  • Active Ingredient: lactic acid (30%)
  • Best for: acne prone
  • Skin Benefits: reduces fine lines as well as the appearance of acne scars and hyperpigmentation; reduces breakouts.

“I love this product. I use it once weekly and have seen a true change in my skin. My texture is reduced by about 50%. Reduced my congested pores. It doesn’t burn so much as it itches, so be aware… it’s mosquito bite level itchiness… but it stops as soon as you rinse your face. It only took maybe 2-3 uses for me to see a difference. I’ve been telling my friends/coworkers about it, so ya know it’s gotta be good.” –Verified Customer

3. QRX Labs Glycolic Fix (50%)

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  • Price: $19.95
  • Where to Buy: AMAZON
  • Rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars
  • Active Ingredient: glycolic acid (50%)
  • Best for: acne prone
  • Skin Benefits: reduces fine lines, acne scars and hyperpigmentation, deep cleans pores, evens out skin tone, increases cell regeneration

I have ‘mature’ skin and it’s p***ing me off. Large pores and blackheads that I’ve been unable to get rid of by using HA serums designed for large pores or even overnight clay masks. I just received my order of the glycolic acid 50% gel peel and Peptide serum that is recommended to be used in conjunction with this product. I can definitely see changes after using for just 3 minutes. It is bringing to surface blemishes that I’ve been unable to get rid of and the large pores on and around my nose are noticeably smaller. I am very pleased so far.”
-Verified Customer

4. Skin Obsession 30% Glycolic

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  • Price: $27.99
  • Where to Buy: AMAZON
  • Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars
  • Active Ingredient: glycolic acid (30%)
  • Best for: acne prone
  • Skin Benefits: smoothes fine lines and acne scars, reduces breakouts, increases cell turnover, improves skin texture

“This peel has completely transformed my skin. I’ve used it once a week for about a month now and my skin looks totally different…that’s no exaggeration. First, it has completely unclogged my pores; no blackhead, whiteheads or little bumps, so my skin looks super smooth. Second, the two deep scars on my cheek have risen a bit so they aren’t as deep and dramatic looking.” -Verified Customer

5. Yeouth Glycolic Acid 30% with Retinol

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  • Price: $17.99
  • Where to Buy: AMAZON
  • Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars
  • Active Ingredient: glycolic acid (30%)
  • Best for: acne prone
  • Skin Benefits: minimizes pores, fights breakouts, reduces fine lines, treats acne scars, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation. Supports healthy collagen production

“This product has made my skin so clear. I haven’t had a pimple in months and people compliment my skin alot. For the reviews that say it doesn’t work it is a really mild peel, my skin isn’t sensitive so I am able to use it twice a week for 5 minutes. I think that’s why my results are so good after I use their hyaluronic acid with my moisturizer my face is soft a clean. Give it a try. “ -Verified Customer

6. Hollywood Skincare Professional Grade 40% Glycolic

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  • Price: $19.95
  • Where to Buy: AMAZON
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Active Ingredient: glycolic acid (50%)
  • Best for: acne prone and dry skin
  • Skin Benefits: treats acne scars, fine lines, hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Increases cell regeneration

Best glycolic product I have ever used and this is after getting peels at a highly rated derm group and then purchasing in home peels. I don’t turn tomato red but skin is smooth as silk. Simply the best!” -Verified Customer

7. Skin Beauty Lactic Acid Peel

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  • Price: $15
  • Where to Buy: AMAZON
  • Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars
  • Active Ingredient: lactic acid (90%)
  • Best for: oily, combination, dry, and normal skin types
  • Skin Benefits: treats acne scars, removes dead skin cells, brightens skin tone, minimizes pores

“I am 63 with lots of skin damage. I figured I’d try this prior to spending 1000s on laser. After 3 months I am truly amazed at the results. The acid stings like crazy but worth the pain. I am up to 10 min @week. I would recommend this 100%.”
-Verified Customer

8. Planet Eden 30% Glycolic Acid Chemical Peel

affordable chemical peel for acne scars
  • Price: $21.50
  • Where to Buy: AMAZON
  • Rating: 3.7 out of 5 stars
  • Active Ingredient: glycolic acid (30%)
  • Best for: acne prone skin
  • Skin Benefits: treats acne scars and dark spots, reduces fine lines, removes dead skin cells, smooths skin texture, evens complexion

I have to say though that my face feels amazing even after the first peel. I can’t wait to see what 6 weeks bring! I am doing this to remove age spots and just for overall improvement. I am 47, and you are never too old to start taking care of your skin!” -Verified Customer

9. Ebenol 30% AHA 2% BHA Chemical Peel

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  • Price: $21.50
  • Where to Buy: AMAZON
  • Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
  • Active Ingredient: glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, mandolin acid
  • Best for: oily, combination, dry, normal
  • Skin Benefits: minimizes pores, blackheads, and acne. Promotes collagen production to tighten and firm. Fades scars and dark spots.

“I have really bad acne, but even worse hyperpigmentation scars from years of it. I’ve only used this once so far because I got it yesterday, but I feel like I’m already seeing a difference. My skin is definitely softer. I’m having to fight myself to make sure I only use it twice a week and have a couple days between uses, I’m excited to see how it improves.”
-Verified Customer

10. Pro Skincare Divine

at home chemical peels for acne scars
  • Price: $19.95
  • Where to Buy: AMAZON
  • Rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars
  • Active Ingredients:
    • glycolic acid (15%)
    • lactic acid (15%)
  • Best for: oily, combination, dry, sensitive
  • Skin Benefits: minimizes pores, blackheads, and acne. Promotes collagen production to tighten and firm. Fades scars and dark spots.

“Have only used twice and WOW! I’ve gotten several compliments on my skin already! I’ve struggled with with terrible acne after I hit 30. Never had breakouts before then. They left awful dark spots. I was never a big makeup person, but the last couple of years I wouldn’t leave the house without foundation on to cover the dark spots. After only 2 times of using this stuff I haven’t felt like I had to put foundation to be out in public! Highly recommend.”  -Verified Customer

Alternative Treatments for Acne Scars

There are other alternative treatments that can help in reducing the appearance of acne scars…

Microneedling:

Microneedling involves using fine needles to create tiny punctures in the skin. This process promotes collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance
of scars.

Laser Therapy:

Laser Therapy can help stimulate collagen production and reduce scars’ appearance. However, this treatment may not be suitable for all skin types,
and it can be costly.

Natural Remedies:

Natural remedies such as aloe vera, tea tree oil, and honey can also help improve the appearance of acne scars. These remedies have been used for centuries and are gentle on the skin.

Final Thoughts | At Home Chemical Peels for Acne Scars

I conclusion, there are many affordable at home chemical peels for acne scars that are available to you. It is important to consult with a skincare professional to determine which peel is right for you based on the severity of your scars and your skin type. With the right treatment plan, you can say goodbye to those pesky acne scars and hello to smoother, clearer skin.