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01.05.2024 Chemical Peels vs. Microdermabrasion: Which Is Right for You?

Rachael Gallo
By Rachael Gallo

Rachael leads Operations at Silver Mirror Facial Bar while driving the growth and expansion of locations in New York City, Washington D.C, and Miami. Her skin care expertise stems from prior roles as a licensed esthetician and manager at Disney Spas and a medical day spa group, along with National Spa Director at Exhale Spa.

Chemical Peels

Giving your skin a refresh is a crucial step along the journey to obtain and maintain a healthy complexion. There are many tools and products that can give your skin a simple refresh, however there are two main techniques that truly rejuvenate, exfoliate and work deep below the skin’s surface to provide benefits that last long term: Chemical Peels and Microdermabrasion. Both of these have major benefits, but each cater to different skin types. 

In this blog, we begin by explaining what each of these techniques are, then we explore the differences between each and what the benefits are in order to help you determine which one is the best for your skin type. 

Chemical Peel Treatment Guide

Chemical Peel Benefits:

  1. Exfoliation
  2. Reduced Fine Lines & Wrinkles
  3. Improved Skin Tone & Texture
  4. Acne Management

Exfoliation

To begin with, chemical peels remove the outermost layer of your skin. It promotes the shedding of dead skin cells in order to reveal fresh skin underneath and gives your skin a brighter look. 

Reduced Fine Lines & Wrinkles

This treatment significantly helps to reduce and prevent the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It leaves you with a smoother and firmer complexion.

Improved Skin Tone & Texture

Chemical peels have a big effect on evening out your skin’s tone. It also helps to reduce the appearance of acne scars and improve the overall texture of your skin. 

Acne Management

Certain chemical peels are extremely effective at unclogging pores and reducing inflammation all helping to mitigate acne. 

How is a Chemical Peel Performed?

A blend of acids, usually containing AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) or BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids) are applied to your skin and work together to heal and refresh your skin. Since everyone’s skin is different, the strength and type of peel changes in order to accommodate the needs and goals of the guest’s skin. 

Once the peel is applied, it is left on the skin for a short period of time so the solution can penetrate below the skin’s surface to work its magic and provide you with all the benefits. Once it’s finished, the peel is neutralized and washed off.

Who are Ideal Candidates for Chemical Peel Treatments?

Chemical peels are a great option for those who struggle with acne scars, uneven skin tone, fine lines and sun damage. These concerns can be difficult to treat on your own and lead to a lot of wasted resources on products. Chemical peels offers you an all-in-one solution that targets each of these concerns and provides you with results that last. 

Be sure to consult with a skincare professional so they can assess which strength and type of peel is best for your skin. This ensures that you avoid causing any damage to your skin or creating any further issues. 

Microdermabrasion Treatment Guide

Microdermabrasion Benefits

  1. Exfoliation
  2. Reduced Pore Size
  3. Enhanced Product Absorption
  4. No Downtime

Exfoliation

Just like a chemical peel, microdermabrasion removes the outermost layer of your skin to expose the newer skin underneath. 

Reduced Pore Size

Microdermabrasion is a great solution to help with large pores. It works to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and helps to even out your skin texture. 

Enhanced Product Absorption

This technique allows for your skin to be more receptive to skincare products, which increases all of the benefits found in the ingredients. 

No Downtime

This is a very gentle treatment that is perfect for people with busy schedules with little to no downtime. 

How is Microdermabrasion Performed?

The technique of microdermabrasion is performed with a handheld device that gently exfoliates the surface of your skin with microcrystals or a diamond-tipped wand. This procedure ensures a controlled and targeted exfoliation to avoid irritation and inflammation. The exfoliated skin and crystals are then suctioned away, removing all of the dead skin cells and revealing revitalized skin. 

Who are Ideal Candidates for Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a great option for those trying to improve skin texture, address minor imperfections and achieve a smoother complexion. It’s a non-invasive, gentle technique that significantly improves texture and impurities. Due to its gentle nature, it’s perfect for all skin types, including sensitive skin because it avoids causing irritation and being too harsh on skin. 

Choosing the Right Treatment For You

Based on your goals and your skin type, determine which treatment is best for you. If you want to target concerns such as acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles or sun damage, getting a chemical peel might be the best option. On the other hand, if you have sensitive skin and are interested in regular maintenance, microdermabrasion offers you a perfect option. 

At Silver Mirror, our expert estheticians are here to provide you with either treatment and are equipped to ensure that the treatment will be tailored to your skin type. Book your appointment at your nearest Silver Mirror and add on either treatment based on your skincare goals. 

By Rachael Gallo