Chemical Peel vs Laser Skin Resurfacing

Chemical peels and laser resurfacing huntersville north carolina offer a solution for a multitude of different skin issues. Each of the treatments work to reduce the signs of aging and improve the skin’s overall appearance. It can be challenging to determine which solution is right for you. The optimal solution depends on various factors such as the level of intensity you are comfortable with, the issue you are looking to correct, the amount of money you are willing to spend and the amount of time you are willing to devote for the desired outcome.

Laser resurfacing is a technique which works by targeting short, concentrated, pulsating beams of light at specific areas of the skin. In comparison, peels use fruit acids or chemicals and have various levels of intensity. They work by stripping the topmost layers of the skin.

The types of skin conditions that can be improved through the use of peels ranges from acne scars or signs of aging to sun damage. While chemical peels are effective in minimizing fine lines and improving rough skin, the solution is not as effective with deep wrinkles or sagging skin. Lasers are able to improve skin conditions which range from sun damage to brown spots or even scarring. Some types of wrinkles, however, are better candidates for laser treatment compared to others. For example, the lines around the eyes and vertical wrinkles framing the mouth can often be improved through laser resurfacing. The texture of the skin can also benefit from laser therapy.

Lasers and peels also come in varying levels of intensity. Patients can opt for a lighter peel, such as alpha hydroxy acid, which can be completed in a short amount of time. They can also opt for a deeper treatment which contains a higher concentration of trichloroacetic acid. The stronger peels are able to improve fine lines, discoloration or rough skin texture. For patients who are new to peels, it is best to start with a lighter treatment option and slowly work your way up to stronger formulas. Laser resurfacing treatments are available in two options which include ablative and non-ablative lasers. Ablative lasers remove the outer layers of the skin, and take care of wrinkles and problem areas. Non-ablative lasers are a less invasive option as they trigger the skin to produce additional collagen.

Both procedures can be performed at home or in a dermatologist’s office. Both at-home peels and laser devices which are available over the counter, however, do not offer the same intensity or results compared to treatments available at the doctor’s office. Both types of treatments can also result in side effects such as redness, hyperpigmentation or even scarring if the instructions are not closely followed.

Side Effects

Just like the name implies, chemical peel work by peeling away the skin’s outer layers. For patients who have extremely sensitive skin, this solution can present issues. Some people may have a change in their skin tone on the treated areas. This change may be temporary or permanent, in some cases. To minimize the risks of peels, work with your dermatologist to choose the right treatment for your skin type. Side effects from lasers can vary based on the patient and the type of treatment being performed. Resurfacing treatments which take place in a doctor’s office, can result in scabbing or red skin for several weeks while the skin is healing. As with any skin treatment, there is a risk of scarring and infection.

In most cases, laser treatments are more expensive compared to chemical peels. The price will vary based on the treatment, use of anesthesia, who is performing the treatment and other factors. In 2014, the average cost for laser skin resurfacing was $2,146 for ablative and $1,062 for non-ablative. Based on data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of a chemical peel is $706. The cost is dependent on the procedure being performed and your specific location. A mild face peel, for example is about $100, while a Phenol full face peel will cost about $3,000 to $4,000.

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