Chemical Peels vs Microneedling: Which is Right for Your Skin?


Expert insight from Alcove Aesthetics, Pall Mall, London

 

If you’re looking to smooth texture, reduce fine lines or refresh dull skin, two of the most trusted treatments are chemical peels and microneedling. Both are regenerative, non-surgical and performed in our doctor-led aesthetics clinic in Mayfair, but they work in very different ways. Understanding which option suits your skin best can make all the difference to your results.

At Alcove Aesthetics by Dr Goziem Onuchukwu, each treatment is tailored to your skin’s needs following a medical consultation at our Central London clinic at 120 Pall Mall.


Why Patients Seek These Treatments

Many patients visit us because their skin looks tired, uneven or textured. Others want to address early signs of ageing without injectables. Both peels and microneedling help restore radiance by stimulating new cell turnover and collagen production — the foundation of smooth, youthful-looking skin.

The goal is always natural rejuvenation: healthier, more resilient skin that glows without makeup.


What They Are and How They Work

Chemical Peels

A chemical peel uses controlled exfoliation to dissolve the dull, damaged outer layers of skin. Depending on depth and ingredients, peels can treat:

  • Pigmentation and uneven tone
  • Fine lines and texture
  • Acne and congestion
  • Sun damage and dullness

At Alcove Aesthetics, Dr Goziem offers two medical-grade options:

Peel LevelFocusPrice
Level 1Brightening and hydration (mild resurfacing)£250
Level 2Advanced rejuvenation and pigmentation control£350

Peels deliver visible smoothness and radiance within days. They work by removing the top layer of dead cells and triggering the skin’s natural healing response for improved tone and clarity.

Microneedling

Microneedling is a collagen-inducing therapy that creates precise micro-channels in the skin using fine needles. This stimulates the body’s healing process and increases collagen and elastin — key proteins that give skin firmness and elasticity.

It can effectively improve:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Acne scars
  • Enlarged pores
  • Uneven texture

Dr Goziem’s approach is always medical-grade and meticulous, ensuring even depth and minimal trauma for maximum collagen stimulation.

TreatmentPrice
Face – 1 session£300
Face – Course of 3£750

Microneedling can also be combined with PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) or Exosomes for enhanced regeneration and faster healing — a bespoke combination often recommended for patients seeking comprehensive rejuvenation.


Benefits and Results

TreatmentBest ForVisible Results AfterKey Benefit
Chemical PeelPigmentation, uneven tone, dullness5–7 daysSmooth, refined, luminous skin
MicroneedlingFine lines, scarring, texture2–4 weeks (collagen builds)Firmer, lifted, rejuvenated skin

Chemical Peels deliver faster surface radiance, while Microneedling builds long-term structural improvement. Some patients benefit from alternating the two as part of a bespoke skin plan.


Why Choose Alcove Aesthetics

At Alcove Aesthetics by Dr Goziem, every treatment is medically led, ensuring safety and precision.

  • Dr Goziem Onuchukwu – BDS, MSc (Aesthetic Medicine), GDC Registered Dentist
  • 7+ years’ experience and over 1,000 patients treated
  • Multi-award winning: Best Anti-Ageing Practitioner (Central London 2024 & 2025) and Skin Aesthetics Specialist of the Year (2025)
  • Located in Pall Mall, serving Mayfair, St James’s, Knightsbridge, Westminster, Belgravia, Soho and Chelsea

Our focus is doctor-delivered care, natural results and an elevated patient experience in the heart of Central London.


Your Treatment Journey

  1. Consultation – Dr Goziem assesses your skin type, concerns and goals. Photos may be taken to track progress.
  2. Treatment Session – Peels are applied for a few minutes; microneedling takes around 30–45 minutes.
  3. Aftercare Plan – You’ll receive a tailored regimen and SPF guidance to protect new skin cells.
  4. Follow-up – Complimentary review to monitor results and adjust your plan if needed.

All treatments take place in our discreet Pall Mall clinic with doctor-led protocols for comfort and precision.


Recovery and Aftercare

  • Chemical Peels: Expect mild redness or light peeling for 2–3 days. Radiance appears by day 5.
  • Microneedling: Skin may look flushed for 24–48 hours. Collagen develops over 4–6 weeks for gradual, natural improvement.

Both treatments require daily SPF 50 and avoidance of heat or exfoliants for 3–5 days post-procedure.


Cost and Transparency

At Alcove Aesthetics we believe in clear, upfront pricing.

  • Chemical Peels: £250 – £350
  • Microneedling: £300 (1 session) | £750 (course of 3)

A £50 booking fee secures your appointment and is redeemable against your chosen treatment.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe for all skin types?
Yes. Both treatments are suitable for most skin types when performed in a medical setting. Dr Goziem adjusts depth and formulation to ensure safety for darker or sensitive skin.

Does it hurt?
Mild tingling during a peel and light pressure during microneedling are normal. A topical anaesthetic is applied before microneedling for comfort.

How many sessions do I need?
Peels are often performed monthly for 2–3 sessions. Microneedling typically requires a course of 3–4 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart.

Can I combine them?
Yes. Many patients alternate peels and microneedling to target both surface tone and deeper collagen regeneration.

When will I see results?
Peels show results within a week; microneedling continues to improve skin quality for several months as collagen rebuilds.


Ready to Discover Which Treatment Suits You?

Both chemical peels and microneedling can transform your skin when performed by an experienced medical professional. The best way to decide is through a personalised consultation with Dr Goziem Onuchukwu at Alcove Aesthetics, 120 Pall Mall, London SW1Y 5EA.

To book your consultation, call 07457 404 982, email info@drgoziem.com, or schedule online at alcoveaesthetics.com/appointments.


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