Key Takeaway:
While both exfoliating facials and chemical peels help brighten and renew the skin, they work in different ways. Understanding their differences and when to choose each can help you get better, longer-lasting results from your skincare treatments.

Whats the Difference Between a Peel and an Exfoliating Facial

Chemical Peels vs. Exfoliating Facials: A Clear Comparison

If your summer skin is looking dull, tired, or congested, you may be wondering: Should I book a chemical peel or an exfoliating facial? Both treatments offer skin-smoothing benefits, but they’re not interchangeable. Here’s what our estheticians at Aspen Aesthetics + Wellness recommend based on your skin type, goals, and lifestyle.

How They Work

Exfoliating Facials

These use mechanical methods, like microdermabrasion or dermaplaning, to manually remove dead skin cells from the surface.

Often includes enzymes or mild acids
Ideal for instant radiance and surface-level smoothing
Great for sensitive or first-time clients

Learn more: Dermaplaning + Microdermabrasion

Chemical Peels

These use controlled acid blends to trigger deeper exfoliation and cell turnover, targeting hyperpigmentation, texture, and fine lines.

Ideal for acne scars, sun damage, and dullness
Can penetrate deeper than physical exfoliation
Requires post-care like sun protection and hydration

Explore: Chemical Peels at Aspen

When to Choose Which?

Skin Concern	Go for a Peel	Try an Exfoliating Facial
Sun Damage & Pigmentation	✔ Yes	Consultation Needed
Rough Texture	✔ Yes	✔ Yes
Pre-Event Glow	Consultation Needed	✔ Yes (instant radiance)
Sensitive Skin	Consultation Needed	✔ Yes
Acne or Breakouts	✔ Yes (with our customized formula)	Consultation Needed
First Time?	Try ZO Stim Peel (gentle!)	Great intro option

Why We Love the ZO Stimulator Peel

This medical-grade peel delivers noticeable results without downtime. It’s gentle enough for summer and perfect when paired with a Cryoskin Facial for an added firming effect.

Improves tone, texture & clarity
Uses a blend of lactic, citric, and salicylic acids
Leaves your skin fresh, not flaking

More on our approach: Medical-Grade Skincare

What About Cryoskin?

For summer, we recommend pairing a light peel with Cryoskin Facial. Cryotherapy soothes puffiness, calms inflammation, and tones tired skin, making it a powerful duo with a chemical peel for real results.

Ready to Reset?

Try our Summer Skin Reset:

Cryoskin Facial + ZO Stimulator Peel
45 minutes of results-driven care
Just $148 (new client intro price)

Book Now or CALL/TEXT 719.256.0272

Final Tip:
Don’t exfoliate blindly! Choose the treatment that fits your skin’s needs, and season. Our team is here to guide you with personalized care and medical-grade results.

Not sure which is right for your skin?

Experience the best of both worlds with our Summer Skin Reset: Cryoskin Facial + ZO Stim Peel, only $148, for new clients. Want to elevate your glow even more? Our 6-Week NAD+ Home Injection Kit supports deep cellular recovery beyond the surface.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

BOOK NOW

This was my first ever chemical peel, and Kelly was great! She is so educational and helpful in explaining the process and all of the following steps + skincare. I can’t wait to see my results and follow up with her again!

DARBY

Our Testimonials

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

Reviews

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Alyssa Calleja 6 months ago

All of the staff is super friendly and welcoming. Sierra did an amazing job with my injectables! She answered all my questions, is very knowledgeable and made me feel very comfortable. Highly recommended!

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Karen Dittsworth 6 months ago

Aspen Aesthetics is such a wonderful place for all your skin care needs, all the staff is so knowledgeable and have a positive ,beautiful energy about them..you must check them out.

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TANYA EHLINGER 6 months ago

Great staff and super flexible with scheduling!
Very knowledgeable about wellness and longevity medicine! Their cryotherapy chamber is the best in the Springs.

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Kasey Hales 6 months ago

Sierra did an amazing job being honest and helpful through the entire filer process for my first time. She accentuated my lips and I love her work!

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What’s the Difference Between a Peel and an Exfoliating Facial?

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