What is the Difference Between a Chemical Peel and a LaserTreatment?
Posted March 28, 2023
A Chemical Peel can be used for minor skin texture issues and sun damage and to enhance the skin’s appearance. This treatment can be done alone or combined with a facial. There are different depths that can be reached depending on the desired results. Typically, the best results are seen in a younger patient population or patients that have been long-term users of good skin care products. Post-treatment, your skin may be mildly swollen, red, dry, and irritated. The skin may peel, which typically ends within 2-5 days. Do not pick at your skin, and follow all post-treatment instructions.
A CO2 laser can be used for skin resurfacing and to address discolorations, sun damage, age spots, texture, and fine lines. The results are smoother, brighter, and younger-looking skin. Our CO2 laser can be customized to deliver a more intense treatment, but it can require a week or two of social downtime. A Cool Peel+ treatment delivers a less intensive treatment with minimal downtime. After the CO2 laser treatment, your skin will be red and may have mild swelling, typically like a bad sunburn. The redness should resolve within the first day or so, depending upon the level of treatment. Skin will feel gritty until the exfoliation process resolves itself.
Both laser treatments and Chemical Peels can make the skin more sensitive to the sun, so sunscreen and limiting the time spent outdoors are important for the best results. A consultation with one of our providers can determine the best treatment to meet your skin care needs.
