Microneedling and chemical peels are non-surgical cosmetic procedures designed to help patients correct facial lines and wrinkles. At first glance, both facial rejuvenation treatments may seem similar. But, upon close examination, there are several notable differences between them.
People who are considering microneedling or chemical peels should consult with an expert facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon like Dr. Babak Azizzadeh of the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills. Dr. Azizzadeh is world-renowned for his expertise in head and neck surgery and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, and he can provide patients with comprehensive insights into microneedling, chemical peels, and other facial rejuvenation treatments. As a result, Dr. Azizzadeh can make it easy for a patient to determine if microneedling, a chemical peel, or any other cosmetic procedure can deliver their desired results.
Microneedling for Wrinkles: How Does It Work, and Is It Effective?
Microneedling, also referred to as collagen induction therapy, involves the insertion of tiny needles into different areas of the face. The needles create micro-perforations that range from 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm in size. These micro-perforations enable platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or other products to reach the deep layers of the skin and stimulate collagen and elastin growth. In doing so, microneedling can tighten and rejuvenate skin on the face and neck and reduce the appearance of scars and other skin blemishes.
The ideal candidate for microneedling is anyone who want to undergo a minimally invasive procedure to bolster their facial appearance. Research has shown that microneedling can be used to improve skin laxity and texture and correct facial lines and wrinkles. Microneedling also has minor side effects in comparison to laser ablation, radiofrequency, and other invasive facial rejuvenation treatments; in one study, researchers found that patients only experienced minimal pain and discomfort after a microneedling treatment.
Although microneedling can be beneficial, the procedure is not intended for all people who are considering non-surgical facial rejuvenation. Dr. Azizzadeh may rule a patient ineligible for microneedling if any of the following medical conditions are present:
Acne, cold sores, or another active bacterial or fungal infection
- Cardiac abnormalities
- Collagen vascular diseases
- Hemorrhagic disorders
- Hemostatic dysfunction
- Keloid scars
- Scleroderma
If Dr. Azizzadeh deems a patient to be a good candidate for microneedling, he may recommend the procedure be performed in combination with other treatments as well. For instance, Dr. Azizzadeh may recommend microneedling and laser skin resurfacing be completed at the same time to fully revitalize the facial appearance.
Chemical Peel for Scars and Other Skin Issues: Here’s What You Need to Know
A chemical peel can be used to treat skin on the face, neck, and hands. During a chemical peel, a solution is applied to a patient’s skin, which causes the skin to blister. Next, the solution is peeled off the skin. This results in new skin that is generally smoother and has fewer wrinkles.
Chemical peels can be used to treat mild scars, acne, sun-damaged skin, and fine lines around the eyes and mouth. The ideal candidate for a chemical peel usually has fair skin and light hair. However, people with dark skin can also benefit from chemical peels, depending on the nature of their skin issue.
Three types of chemical peels are available: light, medium, and deep. The right chemical peel treatment depends on the severity of a patient’s skin issues. Furthermore, the recovery time associated with a chemical peel varies based on the type of peel performed.
The effectiveness of a chemical peel varies. Chemical peel results can include improved skin texture and tone and fewer fine lines and wrinkles. The results of a chemical peel are typically subtle but become more transparent in patients who undergo follow-up treatments.
Microneedling vs. Chemical Peel: How to Decide Which Treatment Is Right for You
It can be tough to determine if microneedling or a chemical peel is the best option to revitalize the facial appearance. Fortunately, there are several factors that can be evaluated to help people streamline their decision-making process. These factors include:
1. Risks
There are risks associated with microneedling, chemical peels, and other cosmetic procedures, and these dangers must be closely examined. With microneedling, potential treatment complications include bleeding, infection, bruising, and skin irritation. Comparatively, with a chemical peel, the risks include scarring, skin discoloration, infection, and heart, liver, or kidney damage.
2. Downtime
The downtime associated with microneedling and chemical peels is usually minimal. For microneedling patients, Dr. Azizzadeh recommends they take the remainder of the day off from work or avoid other strenuous activities after their procedure. These patients may experience skin sensitivity for a few days after a microneedling treatment, and they may require additional sunscreen when they go outdoors to limit the impact of this issue. Following a chemical peel, a patient may need up to two weeks to fully recover, depending on the type of peel administered.
3. Cost
The cost of a microneedling or chemical peel treatment depends on the patient. Microneedling patients may require three to six sessions to achieve the full results of treatment, and they are billed per session. Chemical peel costs can differ based on the type of peel.
Want to Explore Facial Rejuvenation Treatment Options? Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh
Dr. Azizzadeh can teach patients about microneedling, chemical peels, and other non-surgical and surgical facial rejuvenation treatments. He is a Harvard-trained and dual board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, and he is happy to provide insights into a variety of cosmetic procedures. As such, Dr. Azizzadeh can help a patient decide if microneedling, a chemical peel, or another cosmetic procedure aligns with their facial rejuvenation treatment goals. To learn more about our cosmetic treatment options or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh, please contact us online or call us today at 310-657-2203.