Choosing Your First Advanced Treatment: The Strategic Decision Between Chemical Peels and Microdermabrasion for New Estheticians

For aspiring estheticians entering the beauty industry, mastering advanced treatments is essential for building a successful career. However, the question of which technique to learn first—chemical peels or microdermabrasion—can significantly impact your professional development and client outcomes. Understanding the fundamental differences between these popular treatments will help you make an informed decision about your educational priorities.

Understanding the Fundamentals

Both techniques aim to remove dead skin cells, revealing the smoother, brighter skin beneath. Chemical peels can remove deeper skin imperfections with a chemical exfoliant solution, while microdermabrasion uses a tool to gently exfoliate the outer layer of the skin and wipe away the dead skin cells. Both microdermabrasion and chemical peels should only be performed by a qualified aesthetician or dermatologist, and both procedures are performed by a board-certified dermatologist or esthetician to rejuvenate the skin.

Microdermabrasion is a painless, non-invasive process in which tiny crystals are sprayed onto the surface of the skin to loosen dead skin cells, which are then suctioned off with a facial vacuum. This exfoliating and skin rejuvenation procedure leaves skin feeling softer and looking brighter. Chemical peels utilize a variety of acidic solutions to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed. There are three main types of chemical peels: Superficial peels: These gentle peels, often containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), target the top layer of the skin. They are effective for addressing minor concerns like uneven skin tone, dryness, and rough texture.

Why Microdermabrasion Should Be Your Starting Point

For new estheticians, microdermabrasion presents several compelling advantages as a first advanced treatment to master. The pros of microdermabrasion are that there is no pain involved, no recovery or downtime after the procedure, and it’s completely safe. It also tends to be more affordable than chemical peels. Minimal downtime: Microdermabrasion typically causes mild redness that fades within a few hours. Safe for most skin types: It’s a good option for those with sensitive skin who cannot tolerate chemical peels. Comfortable procedure: Microdermabrasion is generally well-tolerated, with minimal discomfort. Quick results: You may see a noticeable improvement in skin texture and tone after just one treatment, although multiple sessions are recommended for optimal results.

Since its introduction in the US in 1996, microdermabrasion offers a simple, relatively inexpensive treatment for photoaging, with rapid recovery time. The AAD advises that microdermabrasion does not require an anesthetic and involves little or no recovery time or downtime. This makes it an ideal treatment for building confidence and developing client relationships early in your career.

The Case for Chemical Peels as Advanced Training

While microdermabrasion offers a gentler introduction, chemical peels provide deeper, more transformative results. Deeper results: Chemical peels can address more profound skin concerns than microdermabrasion. Variety of options: With different types of peels available, there’s a treatment suitable for a range of skin issues. Long-lasting results: Depending on the type of peel, results can last for several months. Chemical peels work deeper than microdermabrasion, so they can have more risks, but also more rewards. Chemical peels have more long-lasting results than microdermabrasion and, depending on the type of peel you get, they may not require repeated treatments. They can make a visible difference with acne, scars, hyperpigmentation or melasma, wrinkles, and sagging.

However, chemical peels require significantly more training and expertise. Chemical peels have the potential to cause scarring, infection, and changes in skin tone if they aren’t administered under the careful hands of a licensed esthetician trained in chemical peels. Your state esthetician license may also limit the type and strength of chemical peel solutions you are able to use. In most states, you can only apply solutions of less than 30 percent, as anything higher is considered “medical grade.”

Training Considerations for Beauty School Students

For students considering their educational pathway, it’s important to understand that advanced hands-on Microdermabrasion & Chemical Peels Training for medical professionals. The Facial Analysis/Microdermabrasion/Chemical Peels training course is designed as a one-day course for aestheticians and medical professionals. Many programs combine both treatments in comprehensive training packages.

At institutions like AVI Career Training, students benefit from comprehensive programs that prepare them for real-world applications. In our Esthetics Programs we cover everything from mastering the art of microdermabrasion to chemical peels and advanced facial treatments. From mastering the art of microdermabrasion to chemical peels and advanced facial treatments, our goal is to equip you with both practical skills and the essential theoretical knowledge needed to thrive in your chosen profession. For those in the Virginia area, the esthetician program rose hill farms location offers hands-on training with industry-standard equipment and experienced instructors.

Professional Recommendations

Industry experts consistently recommend starting with microdermabrasion for several practical reasons. Bottom line: Microdermabrasion is a gentle, effective, and affordable way to generally perk up dull, dry skin, as well as brighten and improve texture. If your skin issues are more complex, or you need more intense treatment, you may want to consider a chemical peel. This progression allows new estheticians to build their skills gradually while minimizing risk to clients.

Combining facials with microdermabrasion and chemical peels are profitable add-ons to offer your clients. You will learn the theory behind microdermabrasion and chemical peels, techniques, types of equipment, types of chemical peels, technical application, treatment protocols, contraindications, and pre/post treatment procedures. The business aspect is equally important—microdermabrasion treatments typically have higher client acceptance rates and lower liability concerns.

Building Your Career Foundation

According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, there were nearly 1.4 million chemical peels performed in 2016, making it third most common minimally invasive cosmetic procedure performed that year. In short, if your esthetician’s toolkit doesn’t come with an expertise in peels and a unique repertoire of peel services, you are likely missing out on a growing base of satisfied clients. However, this doesn’t mean you should rush into advanced chemical peel training without proper foundation.

The strategic approach is to master microdermabrasion first, then advance to chemical peels once you’ve developed strong client consultation skills, proper safety protocols, and confidence in treatment delivery. Using microdermabrasion before your chemical peel can help prep the skin and allow the acids to penetrate deeper into your skin’s layers. Understanding how these treatments complement each other will make you a more versatile and valuable esthetician.

Making Your Decision

For new estheticians, the evidence strongly supports beginning with microdermabrasion training. Its safety profile, immediate results, and lower learning curve make it the ideal foundation treatment. Once you’ve mastered microdermabrasion and built your client base, advancing to chemical peel training will expand your service offerings and increase your earning potential.

Remember that both treatments require ongoing education and practice. Regardless of whether your state requires additional training in chemical peels, it will always benefit you to pursue advanced training in chemical peels through a certificate or diploma program. The key is building your expertise systematically, ensuring you can deliver safe, effective treatments that build long-term client relationships and establish your reputation in the beauty industry.