This Product Cleared My Bacne So Fast, I Had to Do a Double Take

I can't complain too much when it comes to my skin. I have more good days than bad, but the breakouts on my back tell a different story. I often forego delicate tank tops and shoulder-baring shirts, embarrassed by the glaring acne scars and bumps on my back. But acne is treatable, and I was determined not to hide in my skin.

A while back, our former wellness editor Victoria Hoff told me that Stacked Skincare's TCA Multi-Acid Body Peel had cleared up her body breakouts, so I got my hands on a bottle. It was essentially a chemical peel for my back. Allow me to explain.

Pros:

• Noticeable results after a few days
• Glowing skin, thanks to lactic acid
• Can use on sensitive skin
• Dark spots are decreased, thanks to salicylic acid and TCA

Cons:

• Price per ounce is expensive
• Slight burning sensation

Bottom Line

Now, I know that bacne is an emotionally debilitating topic for many, and I wouldn't over-sensationalize the results of a treatment, so here goes: This peel is scary-good.

Stacked Skincare TCA Body Peel $109.00

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About My Skin: Bacne problems

One of the main sources of my back blemishes is something called acne mechanica, where sweat and oil mixed with friction cause the skin to break out. One remedy that's helped is limiting my bra wear. In the summertime, my breakouts are mostly centralized to my shoulder blades and upper back, right where my bra straps rub. I get this isn't a feasible workaround for full-chested girls, so a strapless bra or a backless silicone bra will work too. 

How to Apply: One thin layer

You only need to apply a thin layer to the skin, and no rinsing is necessary. At first, I was discouraged by the application process (the one I got came with a fan brush and dish add-on, so instead, I opted to use a Shiseido cotton pad, which made things much easier.

The Feel: Tingly

On contact, it's quite tingly and delivers a slight burning sensation but nothing unmanageable. It's a lightweight and fragrance-free consistency. After a few swipes along the affected area, it dried within seconds, the tingling wore off, and I went to sleep with dreams of having less "texture" the next morning.

The Ingredients: Powerful and effective

• Lactic acid: Lactic acid hydrates and brightens the skin. It is an exfoliating acid to help smooth skin.
• Trichloroacetic acid: This acid helps with removing damaged dead cells, leaving skin smooth. It is great for improving texture and removing PIH from breakouts.
• Salicylic acid: This is a beta hydroxy (oil soluble) acid that helps exfoliate the skin, targets harmful bacteria that cause breakouts, and helps with oil control. This acid decreases swelling and redness in the skin due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

The Results: Instant and noticeable

The morning after I applied it, my back was noticeably clearer and the hyperpigmentation from scarring had faded considerably. The next few days were when the real magic happened, though. By day four, upon checking my back in the bathroom mirror, I had to do a double take: My breakouts were almost completely gone. I could've cried happy tears in that moment. Finally, a solution. Not only that, but my skin didn't feel dry—instead, it was bright, soft, and glowing. A total win-win.

The Value: Worth the investment

While this product is an investment, it's because you're paying for results. The powerful and effective ingredients provide quick and long-lasting results when used properly. It's recommended you use the product one to two times a week. Skin is transformed and the differences are noticeable.

Similar Products: You have options

While Stacked's body peel has been the clear winner in my search for back-clearing products, I've found some worthy runners-up, too. 

Peter Thomas Roth Max Complexion Correction Pads: Pre-soaked pads make the application process even easier. These pads are filled with 2 percent salicylic acid and 10 percent glycolic acid meant to deeply exfoliate and turn over new cells. 

Murad Acne Body Wash: Another glycolic and salicylic dynamic duo, this body wash rinses away acne without any unnecessary additives like parabens or phthalates. 

At-home vs. In-office Chemical Peels

The main difference between an at-home chemical peel and one done in-office is the concentration of the ingredients. At-home chemical peels are far less aggressive, but also less effective than a peel done in an office by a dermatologist or another licensed medical professional. This also means that peels done at home will come at a far less expensive price point than having a scheduled appointment in an office. However, a major benefit to having a peel done in-office is that trained professionals are on hand should you have an allergic reaction or your skin reacts negatively to the treatment.

Our Verdict: We approve

For visible and quick results to dark spots, acne, and if you're like me, specifically bacne, I highly recommend you try the Stacked Skincare's TCA Multi-Acid Body Peel—you won't be disappointed. Gone are the days of having to worry about any scars or acne problem areas when out and about.