Microneedling vs. Chemical Peels: Which Is Right For You?

They might have the most intimidating names among MedSpa treatments, but chemical peels and microneedling are both well-regarded skin treatments in the industry. Both chemical peels and microneedling are safe, effective MedSpa treatments that can improve your skin. And they’re complementary–meaning they can work together to improve the skin. We know that it can be confusing to figure out which treatment is best for which concern, and how to combine them. So in this blog we’ll answer your common questions about comparing these two treatments. 

What is the difference between microneedling and a chemical peel?

Here’s a quick breakdown. Microneedling uses a device with several very tiny needles that your provider applies to the skin. These needles puncture the skin, which triggers the body’s healing response. In the areas with the little punctures, the body revs up collagen production, resulting in improved skin tone and texture. Multiple treatment sessions are usually required for best results. Downtime is super minimal–many people have no downtime at all after treatments. 

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A chemical peel is quite literally the application of an exfoliating chemical to your skin. The chemicals slough away dead skin cells at the top layers of skin, revealing new skin cells underneath. And yes, your skin really does peel. Chemical peels come in three basic strengths: light, medium, and deep. Light and medium peels are the most common. Light peels have minimal downtime, while medium peels require more time to recover. Light peels are typically done in a series of several, but medium peels tend to be more one-and-done. 

Should you do both chemical peels and microneedling?

There’s definitely a case to be made for combining these treatments in your skincare plan. These treatments are commonly used together, since microneedling spurs healing from the inside out, triggering rejuvenation at deeper layers of the skin, while chemical peels work from the outside in.

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When can you get a chemical peel after microneedling?

Your treatment provider will give you more specific guidance, but you should wait a minimum of three to four weeks after microneedling to get a chemical peel. If you choose to alternate between these treatments, you will space the sessions out about 6 weeks apart. It’s important not to try to cheat on the timeline or rush through combining these treatments because each of them cause temporary inflammation–that’s in part how they work. Getting a chemical peel too soon after microneedling–or vice versa–will hurt a lot, and make both treatments less effective. This is also why it’s important to always be honest with your treatment provider about what you’ve had done recently, and to choose a provider who understands how to effectively combine these treatments–aka a licensed medical professional. 

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Chemical peel or microneedling for acne scars: which is better?

For pitted acne scarring, microneedling is the gold standard. If your ‘scars’ are leftover redness or darkness from breakouts, but the skin itself isn’t pitted, then chemical peels work well too. This is called post-inflammatory pigmentation, which chemical peels and microneedling will both improve. Chemical peels are better for more surface-level concerns. 

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Chemical peel or microneedling for pigmentation: which is better?

This is another situation where both treatments will help; in this case, it depends on the severity of the pigmentation issue. Again, if it’s more surface-level, chemical peels are great. If, however, the pigmentation is deeper in the skin, microneedling is best. Additionally, microneedling tends to be a more effective option for treating irregular pigmentation for those with darker skin tones.  

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Chemical peel vs microneedling for wrinkles

This one is a bit tricky because while both treatments will improve your skin, neither one is a silver bullet for the problem of fine lines and wrinkles. If the look of wrinkles is affecting your confidence, a treatment like Botox may be more optimal. However, because microneedling helps boost collagen production, it will temporarily help with wrinkles, too. And chemical peels also add a fresher, bouncier look to the skin. Microneedling and chemical peels can both be incorporated into a wrinkle-fighting routine, as they have anti-aging effects. They simply aren’t the most targeted treatment for addressing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. 

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Where can I find chemical peels and microneedling near me?

We have great news, because we created an app just for booking treatments like microneedling and chemical peels! It’s the new, easy way to book MedSpa treatments called Upkeep. We’ve partnered with only the best MedSpas so you can book an appointment in the app with full confidence. Instead of calling around to check availability, you can select an appointment time that works for you with just a few taps of your finger on your smartphone. It’s never been easier to book the beauty treatments you need to look and feel your best. Ready to schedule a consultation for a chemical peel, microneedling, or both? Download Upkeep today!

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