Dermabrasion vs Chemical Peel
Dr. Lapuerta offers a number of nonsurgical procedures, many of which are designed to treat skin and facial conditions. These procedures are popular for their fantastic results and minimally invasive nature, which generally involve less downtime than traditional plastic surgery.
Two of our most popular nonsurgical procedures are dermabrasion and chemical peel treatments. Both of these procedures are straightforward, produce attractive results, and have options for downtime-free treatment plans. However, there are differences to keep in mind when deciding which treatment is best for your needs. Many of our patients ask us to help them choose between dermabrasion vs chemical peel procedures.
Here, we will tackle this subject and address the difference between chemical peel and dermabrasion procedures. If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Deciding Between Dermabrasion and Chemical Peel Procedures
First, let’s cover the basics: what are dermabrasion and chemical peel procedures, and how do they differ?
- A chemical peel, or a facial peel, is a popular non-surgical procedure that can be applied at several levels of intensity. The procedure uses a caustic solution to “peel” away the top layer of the patient’s skin, revealing lush, smoother skin underneath. Chemical peels are used to treat several conditions, including acne, stretch marks, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Recovery time is nearly nonexistent for a superficial (light) or medium peel, and the most intense “deep” chemical peel has only minimal recovery time.
- Dermabrasion is also a nonsurgical procedure to improve skin texture and appearance. This treatment uses a rotating brush or a shaving instrument to scrape away irregularities, leaving smooth, wrinkle-free skin as a result. This procedure uses a local anesthetic and is generally performed in a clinic rather than a hospital setting. Dermabrasion generally takes 1-2 hours.
What is The Difference Between Chemical Peel and Dermabrasion?
The main difference between chemical peel and dermabrasion procedures is in how they are performed. Though patients will enjoy a smoother complexion as a result of either dermabrasion or a chemical peel, different means are used to reach these ends. For a chemical peel procedure, a caustic solution is applied to the skin, eventually causing the top layer to peel away. Dermabrasion does not use a chemical solution on the skin. Instead, it is performed by scraping the skin with a surgical tool.
Recovery varies slightly due to the differences in these procedures. Dermabrasion recovery is generally only a couple of days, although treated skin will likely be red and swollen for up to two weeks following the procedure. Chemical peel recovery will depend on the type of treatment selected. A light peel requires no post-procedural downtime, but the recovery period for a medium peel can last up to ten days. Most patients recover from a deep chemical peel after two weeks.
Another key difference between dermabrasion and chemical peel procedures is their cost. The price for both procedures, like any form of plastic surgery, will vary depending on the patient’s unique needs and history. However, chemical peels, particularly higher intensity ones, can be much more costly than dermabrasion. While dermabrasion typically costs between $100-$200, chemical peels range from $150 to $6,000. Patients curious about how much their procedure will cost are advised to speak directly to their doctor.
What is Better, Dermabrasion or Chemical Peel?
We offer chemical peel and dermabrasion procedures to our patients, and we recommend both of them. We don’t think that one is better than the other. Both produce a smoother complexion and fewer wrinkles. Neither require surgery nor have a recovery period that lasts longer than a couple of weeks.
However, most patients do find that one of these two procedures works better for them as individuals. Some folks choose a chemical peel over dermabrasion because they can choose which level of treatment intensity they prefer. Others opt for dermabrasion, as it generally costs less.
How to Decide Between Getting a Chemical Peel and dermabrasion
So, is dermabrasion or chemical peel better? That is ultimately up to the individual. However, most people find that plenty of research and thorough consultation with their doctor will help them choose. We recommend that patients carefully review our galleries from both procedures to get an idea of what their own results might look like. Examples from the gallery can also be helpful to bring into a consultation to help identify the right treatment to get similar results.
Book Your Dermabrasion or Chemical Peel Procedure Today!
Dr. Leo Lapuerta has been performing chemical peels and dermabrasion procedures in the Houston area for over 20 years. If you are considering one of these procedures, don’t hesitate to contact our team for a free consultation with Dr. Lapuerta. You’ll be able to determine which of these procedures is best for you and ask any questions you might have about what it will entail. We look forward to meeting you and helping you reach your goals!