Facials vs. Chemical Peels: Which One Is Right for Your Skin?

Facials vs. Chemical Peels: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to skincare, choosing between a facial and a chemical peel can be overwhelming, especially with all the available options for rejuvenating your skin. While both treatments are designed to improve skin texture, clarity, and appearance, they work in different ways and are suitable for different skin concerns.

At Velour Skin in Denver, CO, we offer both facials and chemical peels, each tailored to meet the needs of your skin. But how do you decide which one is right for you? In this blog, we’ll break down the benefits of each treatment and help you determine which option will leave your skin glowing and healthy.

What Is a Facial?

A facial is a non-invasive skincare treatment designed to cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, and nourish the skin. Facials can be customized for different skin types, from dry and sensitive to oily and acne-prone, with various techniques and products used to address specific concerns.

Some common steps in a facial include:

Cleansing: To remove makeup, dirt, and oils from the skin.
Exfoliation: To slough off dead skin cells and reveal brighter skin underneath.
Extraction: Removing blackheads or clogged pores (if necessary).
Massage: To promote relaxation and circulation.
Mask or Serum: Applied to address specific skin concerns such as acne, dryness, or pigmentation.

Best for: Clients looking to relax while improving skin texture, hydration, and overall radiance. Facials are ideal for maintaining healthy skin and treating conditions like dryness, acne, or dullness.

Price: Facials typically start at $90 and vary depending on the type and length of the treatment.

What Is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a more intensive treatment that uses a solution of acids to exfoliate the skin and encourage the shedding of dead skin cells. The solution is applied to the skin, where it causes a controlled injury that stimulates the body’s natural healing process. This process helps to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation.

There are three types of chemical peels, categorized by their depth:

Light Peel: This type of peel only penetrates the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis) and is used for improving overall skin texture and tone. It typically involves mild exfoliation with glycolic acid or salicylic acid.
Medium Peel: A medium-depth peel reaches deeper layers of the skin, improving acne scars, wrinkles, and pigmentation. It may use trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or a combination of acids.
Deep Peel: This peel goes even deeper into the skin and is usually reserved for more severe skin concerns like deep scarring, significant sun damage, or wrinkles. Phenol is often used for deep peels.

Best for: Clients with concerns about fine lines, acne scars, sun damage, or uneven skin tone. A chemical peel is great for those who want more dramatic results than a facial can provide.

Price: Chemical peels range from $150 to $350, depending on the depth of the peel and specific skin concerns being addressed.

When to Choose a Facial vs. Chemical Peel

The decision between a facial and a chemical peel depends on your skin goals and concerns. Let’s break down when each treatment is most beneficial:

Choose a Facial if:
- You want a relaxing treatment that improves hydration and overall skin appearance.
- Your skin is generally healthy but could use some brightening or minor exfoliation.
- You have sensitive skin that might not tolerate the intensity of a chemical peel.
- You need a skin refresh or quick pick-me-up before an event.
Choose a Chemical Peel if:
- You have deeper skin concerns, like acne scars, fine lines, or sun damage.
- Your skin has become resistant to topical treatments or facials and needs a more intensive solution.
- You are comfortable with some downtime and the potential for redness or peeling after the treatment.

Can You Combine Facials and Chemical Peels?

Yes, many clients find that combining a facial with a chemical peel works wonders for their skin. Facials help to hydrate and maintain the skin’s surface, while chemical peels go deeper to treat more serious concerns.

After receiving a chemical peel, it’s often recommended to book a facial to keep your skin hydrated and promote healing. At Velour Skin, we offer customized treatment packages that can combine both to give your skin the best of both worlds.

Book Your Treatment at Velour Skin

Whether you’re looking for a gentle facial to maintain healthy, glowing skin or a chemical peel for more dramatic results, Velour Skin in Denver has the perfect treatment for your needs. Our expert estheticians are here to guide you toward the best choice for your skin and goals.

Book your appointment today and experience the rejuvenating power of a facial or chemical peel tailored just for you!