Deciding between a chemical peel and laser skin resurfacing is difficult for many people as both treat a variety of skin concerns, including fine lines and wrinkles, acne and blemishes, scars, and sun damage. They don’t understand which procedure might give the best results. Sometimes, they end up choosing the wrong procedure and suffer the consequences.

If you are also struggling between a chemical peel and laser skin resurfacing procedures, you should consult with experts as well as know the facts about each procedure.

In this post, we will discuss the differences between chemical peels and laser skin resurfacing. Also, we will state some important facts.

About chemical peels

A chemical peel is for effective exfoliation. It removes dead or dull skin cells by chemically exfoliating the skin’s surface. In this procedure, the experts apply a medical-grade chemical solution to the face and wash it once the outer layer of the skin gets treated. After the procedure, the skin looks clear with reduced wrinkles, and fewer freckles and acne scars. Also, it works on pigmentation.

About laser skin resurfacing

Compared to chemical peels, the laser skin resurfacing procedure provides more dramatic anti-aging results. Also, the procedure reduces wrinkles and lessens scars along with blemishes.

In this procedure, the medical-grade cosmetic lasers smooth out skin by penetrating the outer layers of skin where imperfections are most visible. To address more severe skin irregularities, certain lasers penetrate the deeper layers of skin. The objective of the procedure is to target and remove troubled skin cells and reveal smoother, younger-looking skin one layer at a time.

Cost of the procedure- Laser skin resurfacing is more expensive than chemical peels because its results are more noticeable and typically last longer than chemical peels. Rest, it depends on your skin condition and additional requirements. Sometimes, the cost varies depending on the solution and laser used in the procedures.

Side effects of the procedure- Whether you get a light or deep peel, there are some side effects that you should pay attention to before returning to work or during life activities after the procedure. The side effects include tenderness, temporary redness, stinging, burning, or flaking after receiving a chemical peel.

Lasers often address deeper skin imperfections than chemical peels so they take longer time to heal. Based on the laser type and depth of the treatment, you will experience short-term redness, swelling, itching, or even some blistering. As experts know about these side effects, they are prepared for the same and assure a successful recovery.

Risks associated with the procedure- Rarely, chemical peels lead to any complications. A few risks associated with this procedure are scarring, infection and discoloration.

Long-term complications are rare in laser skin resurfacing. Occasionally, the procedure results in a bacterial infection, long-term hyper pigmentation, and scarring.

With an experienced practitioner, you can drastically reduce risks in both procedures.

What should you choose?

Your skin is unique, so it requires a unique treatment. As it’s difficult to decide, you should consult John Martin, an experienced, certified, and licensed practitioner in Coral Gables. Based on your skin type and requirements, Dr. Martin will determine the right procedure for you.