How to Choose a Non-Surgical Skin Rejuvenation Treatment: Microneedling vs. Chemical Peels Explained

About this Video

• Video Title: How to Choose a Non-Surgical Skin Rejuvenation Treatment: Microneedling vs. Chemical Peels Explained
• Channel: DrAmirKaram
• Speakers: Dr. Amir Karam
• Duration: 00:23:36

Introduction

This video compares microneedling and chemical peels for skin rejuvenation. Dr. Amir Karam, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, explains the science behind each treatment, their costs, recovery times, ideal candidates, and how they can be combined for optimal results. He emphasizes the importance of consistent skincare routines and sun protection for long-term skin health.

Key Takeaways

• Microneedling: This process uses needles to penetrate the skin, stimulating collagen production to reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture. At-home devices are generally discouraged due to shallow penetration depth and risk of infection. Radiofrequency microneedling enhances collagen production but is more expensive. Depth of needle penetration varies depending on the area treated (e.g., 0.5 mm around eyes, up to 2.5 mm for thicker areas).
• Chemical Peels: These use acids to remove the superficial layer of skin, improving pigmentation, glow, and fine lines. Different types of peels exist (glycolic acid, salicylic acid, TCA, phenol) with varying depths of penetration and downtime. Deeper peels require experienced practitioners to avoid complications. Pre-treatment with skin lighteners is recommended for darker skin tones to prevent hyperpigmentation.
• Pain, Price, and Recovery: Microneedling typically involves minimal downtime (1-2 days) and uses numbing agents to reduce discomfort. Chemical peels have varying downtime depending on depth (minimal to weeks) and can cause more discomfort, with deeper peels often requiring sedation. Microneedling costs $250-$1200 per session, while chemical peels cost $150-$3000 per session.
• Combining Treatments: For best results, chemical peels can be used first to address pigmentation and glow, followed by microneedling to target texture and collagen stimulation. A waiting period of 2-6 weeks is recommended between treatments.
• Long-Term Strategy: Daily skincare with actives, sun protection, and consistent treatments like microneedling and chemical peels provide the best long-term skin rejuvenation results. These treatments are enhancements to daily skincare, not replacements.