If you dream of soft, smooth skin that’s free of fine lines, acne, and age spots, a chemical peel or microneedling treatment might just be the key to achieving your skincare goals! 

These two game-changing cosmetic treatments are paving the path to better skin and have helped many of our patients address their skin issues to effortlessly attain a gorgeous, glowing appearance. But one question that pops up often in our practice is which treatment is better — chemical peels or microneedling? 

In this short guide below, we’re covering the differences between a chemical peel and microneedling, the benefits of each, and which treatment is right for you and your skin goals! 

 

Chemical Peels vs. Microneedling — What’s the Difference? And Which is Better? 

Firstly, let’s cover what each treatment actually is and how they work to address various skin issues. Then we’ll get into the different benefits and why you might want to choose one over the other. 

 

Chemical Peels 

A chemical peel is very much what it sounds like — a chemical solution is applied to the skin that causes the outermost layer to peel and shed. Essentially, a chemical peel is an intense exfoliating treatment that removes dead skin cells and reveals fresh, vibrant skin that is often smoother, softer, and more youthful-looking. 

 

Benefits of a Chemical Peel 

There are several benefits to getting a chemical peel. For instance, a chemical peel can help: 

• • Diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 
  • Improve the look of uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation. 
  • Reduce signs of aging, such as dark spots and sunspots. 
  • Brighten up skin tone for a more vibrant, youthful appearance. 
  • Improve the look of scars, such as post-acne scarring. 
  • Smooth out skin texture for a revitalized appearance. 

 

Microneedling 

Also known as a collagen induction therapy, microneedling has become one of the most popular cosmetic treatments — especially amongst celebrities, such as Kim Kardashian West and Victoria Beckham. 

But what exactly is this treatment, and why do so many people love it? This treatment uses a pen-like device that has several small needles on the end of it, which physicians use to produce micro-injuries to the skin. These micro-injuries stimulate the immune system and cause an inflammatory reaction to increase collagen and elastic production. 

We know the microneedling procedure can sound a bit scary! But we promise, the results are entirely worth it. Take a look at the benefits below. 

 

Benefits of Microneedling 

So what are the benefits of microneedling, and how do they compare to the benefits of a chemical peel? 

Well, not only is microneedling a great skin rejuvenation treatment for the face, it can also be used on other parts of the body, such as the neck and chest. For example, this is helpful if you have uneven pigmentation or dark spots on your chest. 

Additional benefits of microneedling include its ability to improve: 

• • Mild to moderate wrinkles and fine lines. 
  • Skin texture and skin tone. 
  • Dark spots. 
  • Enlarged pores. 
  • Scars, such as acne scars or surgical scars. 
  • Hyperpigmentation. 

Furthermore, microneedling can be used in conjunction with PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy. This is better known as the “vampire facial,” which takes a patient’s blood before microneedling to extract the PRP components and then either injecting or topically applying the PRP solution after the microneedling treatment. 

PRP contains growth factors that speed up healing and fundamentally enhance the results of microneedling. This makes it a great anti-aging cosmetic treatment, as it can actually help your skin increase collagen and elasticity for a more youthful appearance! 

 

Which is Better — Chemical Peel or Microneedling? 

So, the big question is, which rejuvenation treatment is best for you? This ultimately depends on your unique skin care goals and what your dermatologist recommends. 

For instance, a chemical peel might be recommended if your main goal is to address pigmentation issues, such as dark spots or severe acne. 

Whereas, a microneedling treatment (with or without PRP) is excellent for addressing deeper wrinkles, fine lines, troublesome scars, or for those who simply want to achieve a smoother, softer complexion. 

 

Achieve Your Best Skin at Brentwood Dermatology 

Are you interested in learning more about chemical peels and microneedling (with or without PRP therapy)? Or want to get board-certified dermatologists recommendations on which treatment would help you achieve your best skin yet? Get in touch with our clinic today! We’re here to make sure you love the skin you’re in. 

 

The trusted physicians at Brentwood Dermatology can assist you with all of your general, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology needs. If you would like to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment, visit our website or give us a call at (615) 377-3448.