Dermabrasion is a procedure done in the operating room under anesthesia where several layers of skin are removed with a rotating device. This is quite aggressive but may be necessary in certain conditions such as acne scars. Chemical peels vary in strength from very light to deeper peels. There are many different varieties of chemical peels and which one for which patient can be determined through a consultation in the office. For sun damage, I would recommend a chemical peel, possibly one targeted for hyperpigmentation depending on one’s skin type. Following the peel, you would have to be very cautious of the sun wearing sun block daily and using appropriate skin care products to help prevent further pigmentation problems.

The combination of active acne with acne scarring is difficult to treat because the active acne is causing ongoing inflammation in the area.  Having both you would not be a good candidate at this time for the combination therapy using dermabrasion, laser and chemical peel.  You could possibly tolerate a light chemical peel but we are more likely going to treat you with topicals to treat the acne, such as Retin-A or possibly Triple Action Cream (with Hydro-Quinone, Retin-A and a light steroid).