The efficacy and safety of a 70% glycolic acid peel with vitamin C for the treatment of acne scars

Abstract

Acne scarring is a common complication associated with significant psychological distress. Both glycolic acid (GA) and vitamin C are known to improve the appearance of acne scarring. We performed a review of 13 patients treated with three 70% GA peels with vitamin C at four weeks apart. There was a statistically significant` improvement in acne scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from the baseline. Maximal effects were noted four weeks after the third chemical peel. It has an excellent safety profile with no permanent adverse effects noted. A combination of 70% glycolic acid with vitamin C chemical peel is an efficacious, well-tolerated treatment of acne scarring in Asian skin.