How Does Laser Treatment Compare to Chemical Peels?

Are laser skin treatments or peels more effective? Our WI-based Radiance Skin Therapy & Laser Center team knows that patients may want to rejuvenate their skin, but be unsure which cosmetic treatment will provide the best results for them.

Laser skin treatments (also referred to as laser skin resurfacing) and chemical peels can treat a myriad skin conditions. Both options are designed to address signs of aging and enhance the appearance of the skin. The best treatment for you will depend on what you’re hoping to treat, as well as your skin type and some other variables.

Both treatments remove dead skin to promote the growth of new skin, so there is some overlap in the benefits they provide and the issues they can correct—but there are also some major differences between them. Continue reading to learn more about what’s involved in these two cosmetic treatments.

• Chemical Peels

Chemical peels involve the application of a chemical solution to the skin, which causes exfoliation and peeling of the topmost layer of the epidermis. This process helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and stimulate collagen production, leading to smoother, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin.

• Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser treatments use focused light energy to either target specific skin concerns or generally rejuvenate the skin overall. These devices offer a high level of precision and can treat specific types of conditions directly, focusing on spots and other legions individually as desired. Different types of lasers are available, and each wavelength serves a unique purpose. The two most common types of laser treatments are ablative and non-ablative lasers.

Which Treatment Type Will Be Best for You?

Since it can be difficult to know which treatment is best for you just by reading about the two, we can discuss your concerns and options with you during your consultation. For most patients, chemical peels work best for hyperpigmentation, while laser skin treatments are better for certain types of scars, such as atrophic or indented scars. Chemical peels are excellent for superficial skin imperfections. Laser skin treatments are often better for deep skin issues and provide faster results. Sometimes the best option may be to combine chemical peels with laser skin resurfacing.

So what’s the answer to the question of laser skin treatments and peels? Our Radiance Skin Therapy & Laser Center team can guide you on each of these procedures and help you decide which option is best for you. Call us at (608) 240-0088 or fill out a contact form for more details.

Anne Pientka