Laser vs. Chemical Peels: What’s the Most Effective Option for Ageing Skin?

Understanding the Basics

When it comes to addressing the signs of ageing—fine lines, wrinkles, sun spots, and uneven texture—two of the most popular clinical treatments are laser resurfacing and chemical peels. But which one actually delivers better results?

If you’re based in Nottingham and considering rejuvenation treatments at a clinic like Rosem Health in West Bridgford, understanding the differences, benefits, and suitability of each can help you make the most informed decision for your skin.

What Are Chemical Peels?

Glo Skin Clinical Peels Level 2-5

Chemical peels work by applying a solution (usually acid-based) to the skin to remove the top layers. This controlled exfoliation promotes new skin cell growth and improves texture, tone, and pigmentation.

Types of peels:

• Superficial (e.g. Glo Flower Enzyme)

• Medium-depth (e.g. lactic or glycolic-based peels like Hydra Bright or Beta Clarity)

• Deep (e.g. TCA peels, typically used under medical supervision)

What Is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser Skin Rejuvenation

Laser treatments use focused light energy to remove damaged skin cells or stimulate collagen production in the deeper layers. At Rosem Health, we use fractional IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and radio-frequency (RF) systems designed to target specific ageing concerns without the downtime of traditional ablative lasers.

Effectiveness: Which Works Better?

1. For Targeting Fine Lines and Wrinkles:

• Chemical peels: Excellent for surface-level fine lines and dullness. Lactic and glycolic acid peels help exfoliate and renew the epidermis.

• Laser treatments: More effective for deeper wrinkles and structural concerns, as they stimulate collagen at a deeper level.

  
  

  ✅ Best for deeper wrinkles? Laser

  ✅ Best for surface lines? Medium-strength peels

2. For Addressing Hyperpigmentation and Sun Damage:

• Peels like the Glo GlyPro or Beta Clarity AHA peel can lift sun spots and even skin tone effectively over several treatments.

• IPL laser targets pigmentation by breaking down melanin in the skin. It’s especially useful for sunspots, melasma, and age-related discolouration.

✅ Best for pigmentation? Both are effective, but laser has faster, targeted results

3. Improving Skin Texture and Tone:

• Peels gradually smooth rough skin and reduce pore size.

• Laser can also smooth the skin, but with additional lifting and tightening effects, particularly when RF is added.

  
  

✅ Best for sagging or texture loss? Laser

Downtime and Recovery

Chemical Peels

• Downtime varies by level:

  • Superficial: Minimal to none

  • Medium-depth: 2–5 days of redness or flaking

• Some redness and sensitivity expected

• Avoid active skincare products for several days

Laser Resurfacing

• IPL & RF laser treatments at Rosem Health are non-ablative, so:

  • Minimal downtime

  • Mild redness or warmth post-treatment

  • Can resume normal activities quickly

    
    

✅ Best for minimal downtime? Tie — depends on the peel level vs. laser settings

Suitability: Who Should Choose What?

Chemical Peels

✔ Ideal for:

• First-time clinical skincare clients

• Mild ageing concerns

• Those with sensitive skin (enzyme peels)

• Budget-conscious clients

Laser Treatments

✔ Ideal for:

• Clients with more advanced signs of ageing

• Deeper pigmentation, broken capillaries, or facial redness

• Desire for long-term collagen stimulation

• Those looking to target multiple concerns in one session

⚠ Not suitable for:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals

• Recently sun-exposed skin

• Very dark skin tones (depending on laser used—Rosem offers fractional IPL which is safer for a broader range)

Safety and Side Effects

Both treatments are safe when administered by trained professionals and tailored to your skin type.

Chemical peels can cause:

• Temporary redness

• Peeling or flaking

• Slight sensitivity

Laser treatments may lead to:

• Temporary redness or swelling

• Slight crusting in treated areas (rare)

At Rosem Health, every treatment begins with a pre-treatment consultation and patch test to ensure safety and suitability.

Treatment Courses & Maintenance

• Peels are typically performed every 2–4 weeks for 4–6 sessions

• Laser treatments are spaced every 3–4 weeks depending on skin concern

Both require SPF use and gentle skincare for maintenance.

What the Studies Say

• A 2020 review in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that IPL treatments significantly improved pigmentation, vascular lesions, and overall skin appearance with minimal downtime.

• A 2018 study in Dermatologic Surgery showed that glycolic acid peels effectively treated fine lines, acne, and pigmentation with few side effects.

• RF therapy was supported in a 2021 Lasers in Surgery and Medicine study for improving skin laxity in ageing skin.

Pricing Comparison

• Chemical Peels at Rosem Health: From £70 to £120

• Laser IPL Treatments: Custom pricing based on area, typically £150–£250 per session

💡 Packages and multi-treatment courses often offer cost savings and enhanced results.

So, Which Is Right for You?

If your main concern is surface-level dullness, breakouts, or fine lines, a chemical peel may be your best starting point.

If you’re noticing more advanced signs of ageing, pigmentation, or redness, or you’re after longer-term collagen support, fractional IPL or RF laser is likely to deliver better value and results.

Book Your Consultation at Rosem Health

At Rosem Health, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Your skin is unique—so your treatment should be too.

Our clinically trained practitioners in West Bridgford, Nottingham will help you determine whether laser or peels (or a combination) are right for you.

📩 Book your skin consultation now at rosem.co.uk

📍 Visit us in West Bridgford and experience the future of clinical skincare and rejuvenation.