Chemical peels and laser skin resurfacing are two of the most popular non-surgical skin treatments. Both are very effective in treating common skin concerns, including lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone and texture, sun damage, and acne scars. But is one better than the other?
Let’s break down the differences between chemical peels and laser skin resurfacing, plus share some benefits of combining these two powerhouse skin treatments.
Chemical Peels vs. Laser Skin Resurfacing
Chemical peels and laser skin resurfacing both exfoliate the skin, removing the outer layer of dead skin cells and debris to reveal a new, fresh layer of skin. However, there are a few notable differences.
Chemical peels use hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid and others to loosen the “glue” that binds skin cells together, thus removing flaky, dead cells from the surface. Peels come in a variety of strengths, so sensitive skin types and those with darker skin tones can still reap the benefits without experiencing harsh side effects.
The downside to chemical peels is that it can take several treatment sessions and a longer waiting period to see results, compared to laser skin resurfacing.
Laser skin resurfacing uses advanced laser technology to remove the outer layer of dead skin while stimulating cell renewal in the deeper layers of the skin. Compared to chemical peels, lasers can yield more precise outcomes and are effective in treating specific skin problems like acne scars, dark spots, and other blemishes.
How Adding a Laser to Your Chemical Peel Can Enhance Results
Chemical peels and laser treatments can be perfect pairs in an overall skin treatment plan. Your skincare provider may recommend starting with a superficial peel a few weeks before a laser treatment to enhance your results.
For a customized treatment plan, call our Concord office at 925-685-4533 or contact us online to schedule your consultation today!
