Would a deep chemical peel be a safer alternative to Fraxel lasers?

Question

I have fine lines and would really like to get these treated. I know that Fraxel lasers are the gold standard for helping this, but I've also heard horror stories of "orange peel skin" and other issues after these lasers. Would a deep chemical peel be a safer alternative? Do deep chemical peels carry the same risks in your opinion?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Shareef Jandali, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Chemical peels are a great option for refreshing and rejuvenating the surface of the skin. Treatments such as Fraxel or other fractionated laser treatments however can give you a more robust and noticeable result. As with any medical procedure, be sure to consult with an experienced provider who is well trained in operating such a device.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! Fraxel is a non-ablative method of skin rejuvenation. It tries to create "damage" to the deeper layer of the skin in order to have the collagen tighten-up and remodel itself. Usually, patients require at least 5-6 treatments over a period of time before they see results. A medium or deep chemical peel, as performed by physicians, is an ablative method of skin rejuvenation. It "damages" the outer surface of the skin down to the collagen layer allowing new skin to replace the old. Chemical peels have been around for a long time and have shown excellent results in just one treatment. Because it is more intense than the nonablative methods, there are more risks associated with it. This includes lightening the skin too much and prolonged redness (1-3 months). Both of which are somewhat expected and can be controlled if the right techniques are used. In conclusion, the results with Fraxel are minimal... but the risks are low. The results with physician strength chemical peels are excellent with one treatment, but the risks are higher. Be sure you consult with a surgeon who has a lot of experience in all forms of skin resurfacing. Best of luck!

Would a deep chemical peel be a safer alternative to Fraxel lasers?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Would a deep chemical peel be a safer alternative to Fraxel lasers?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.