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

Deciding between a facial or a chemical peel can be tricky. At TruMed Aesthetics in Yuma, AZ, we offer both and each has its ideal use cases. In this guide, we break down the differences, benefits, risks, and which treatment might be best for your skin’s needs.

What Is a Facial?

A “facial” generally refers to a relaxing, multi-step skin treatment that includes cleansing, light exfoliation, extractions, masks, massage, and LED or hydration. It’s gentle, safe, and ideal for maintenance, hydration, or mild skin improvement.

Benefits of Facials:

• Gentle, low-risk rejuvenation

• Great for regular skin maintenance

• Helps with hydration, soothing, mild textural improvement

• Good option for sensitive skin that cannot tolerate stronger treatments

What Is a Chemical Peel?

Chemical peels use acids (like glycolic, TCA, salicylic, TRX TCA, and more) to exfoliate deeper layers of skin. This accelerates skin turnover, revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath.

Types of Peels:

• Light peels: alpha-hydroxy acids, superficial exfoliation

• Medium peels: trichloroacetic acid (TCA), stronger resurfacing

• Advanced / TRX / TCA blends: deeper skin correction

Benefits of Peels:

• More dramatic improvement in tone & texture

• Reduce sun damage, pigmentation, fine lines

• Stimulate more collagen production

• Faster visible results (with some downtime)

How to Choose: Facial or Peel?

Skin Goal / Concern	Best Option	Why
Hydration, glow, relaxation	Facial	Gentle, low risk, no downtime
Light texture issues, dullness	Light peel or “brightening facial”	Slightly deeper exfoliation
Pigmentation, sun spots, mild lines	Medium peel / TRX TCA	More powerful exfoliation
Sensitive or barrier-compromised skin	Facial	Less aggressive on barrier
Occasional “boost” between peels	Facial	Helps maintain treatment results

Risks & Aftercare

• Facials: minimal risk, but over-extraction or harsh ingredients can cause irritation

• Peels: possible redness, peeling, downtime as stronger peels demand longer recovery

• Aftercare protocols are critical (sunscreen, gentle skincare, no harsh actives)

• In Yuma’s sun, protecting freshly peeled skin is essential

Pairing Facials & Peels Strategically

Many clients benefit from a combo approach: deeper peels spaced out (quarterly) with regular facials in between to maintain brightness and hydration.

At Tru MedAesthetics, we can customize a facial + peel roadmap tailored to your skin and goals.

Final Thought & Call to Action

Both facials and chemical peels have valuable roles in a well-rounded skincare plan. The “right” option depends on your skin, goals, and tolerance for downtime.

Want to figure out what’s best for your skin? Book a consultation with Tru Med Aesthetics in Yuma, AZ and we’ll map out your ideal regimen — whether it’s facials, peels, or both.