Can a glycolic acid peel help with scarring left behind from acne? i have a lot of scars from acne when i was younger. can a glycolic acid peel help diminish these?

It : It should be of benefit. Without the benefit of an exam to determine the extent and depth of the scarring it is difficult to give a more accurate assessment. You should get an evaluation from an experienced physician who routinely does skin resurfacing options as there may be better alternatives such as laser resurfacing.

Glycolic : Glycolic acid and other (eg, lactic acid, trichloroacetic acid, salicylic acid) peels can indeed reduce the appearance of hyperpigmented (dark/brown) scars, but not erythematous (red) scars or hypertrophic/keloid (raised) scars. These latter scars are better treated with laser treatments. Chemical peels work by gently removing the outer layer of skin so that the skin discoloration is reduced. Successive (usually monthly) peels are recommended for best results.