Both treatments can do wonders for your skin’s appearance and texture but in very different ways. Good for mild pigmentation, acne, dullness or fine lines, a chemical peel uses medical-grade acids to exfoliate away damaged layers and encourage new skin to grow in its place. Laser therapy uses focused energy from light to penetrate deeper, stimulating collagen and tackling more difficult problems such as acne scarring, wrinkles, large pores and stubborn pigmentation. Peels tend to be lighter on the wallet and quicker to sit through, though you might need a few sessions to really see results. Lasers usually cost more but can make a bigger dent in deeper concerns with fewer visits. Recovery time really depends on the peel strength or laser type you go with, and either way, good sun protection and proper aftercare are non-negotiable. Which one’s right for you comes down to your skin type, your specific concerns, and what a dermatologist recommends after actually examining your skin.