Microdermabrasion and chemical peels are two dermatological treatments that are available to encourage exfoliation in the skin. Because dead skin cells can make the skin look dull, contribute to acne or even cause areas of hyperpigmentation, these methods of exfoliation can contribute to improved skin tone.
Function
During microdermabrasion, a dermatologist or aesthetician uses a rotating wand that uses small crystals to exfoliate the face and remove dead skin cells, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Instead of a wand to exfoliate, a chemical peel involves applying a solution to the face. The solution penetrates the skin and peels away the top layer of skin, revealing healthy skin underneath.
Benefits
Microdermabrasion is effective in treating areas of discoloration, such as age or sun spots, mild acne scarring and faint wrinkles, according to Your Plastic Surgery Guide. Because it is an exfoliating treatment, microdermabrasion also can improve skin tone and leave the skin with a more glowing appearance.
Depending upon the type of chemical peel performed, chemical peels can result in smoother skin and treat acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, wrinkling and acne blemishes, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Very invasive peels can treat severe wrinkling and sun damage.
Side Effects
Microdermabrasion is considered a mild dermatological treatment and is associated with few side effects. However, redness, irritation, sun sensitivity and some skin peeling can occur following treatment.
The side effects of a chemical peel often are dependent upon the type of peel being performed. Superficial peels that do not penetrate deeply into the skin's layers share similar side effects to microdermabrasion. However, deeper peels--such as trichloroacetic acid and phenol peels--may result in swelling, crusting skin, skin discoloration and deep peeling. The recovery time for deeper peels may range from a week to a month, according to The American Academy of Dermatology.
Considerations
Choosing a chemical peel or microdermabrasion depends upon a number of factors, including cost, recovery time and desired results. You also should evaluate your current skin conditions with your dermatologist or aesthetician--if you are still experiencing acne breakouts, some chemical peels may not be suitable and can aggravate acne blemishes. Microdermabrasion also may not be suitable for those with sunburns, sensitive skin, deep acne scars or significant hyperpigmentation.
Time Frame
The average microdermabrasion treatment time is 30 minutes to an hour, according to the Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery. Results are temporary, and multiple treatments may be required in order to see results, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Chemical peels may take anywhere from 10 minutes for a mild peel to several hours for a very deep peel.
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