Why Microneedling + a PCA SKIN® Chemical Peel Can Be Better Together
If your goals go beyond a quick glow and include concerns like hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone and texture, the latest research suggests there may be a benefit to combining treatments.
The 2026 study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology compared microneedling alone with microneedling combined with the PCA SKIN® Pigment Correct Peel and the results are impressive! At Esteem, it is our goal to optimize treatments for our clients, and having a study to show the results is something we are excited about.
Why pair the two?
A chemical peel works through controlled exfoliation to help improve skin tone and texture, while microneedling creates controlled micro-injuries that stimulate the skin's natural healing response and support collagen and elastin production.
Together, the treatments can address both pigmentary and textural concerns, creating a more comprehensive approach to skin rejuvenation.
After a series of three treatments, the combination of the PCA SKIN Pigment Correct Peel + microneedling produced greater improvements than microneedling alone in:
Skin clarity and brightness
Evenness of pigmentation
Redness
Skin texture
Overall skin appearance
By Week 12, the researchers reported that the combination treatment produced greater improvement than microneedling alone in skin clarity/brightness by 50%, pigmentation evenness by 24%, redness evenness by 19%, overall appearance by 22%, and skin texture by 15%.
Patients noticed the difference, too: 94% reported significant or noticeable improvement in discoloration or hyperpigmentation on the combination-treated side, and 90% preferred the results of the combination treatment over microneedling alone.
Why We Love a Customized Approach at Esteem
This is exactly why we believe aesthetic treatments shouldn't be one-size-fits-all.
At Esteem Medical Aesthetics, we offer both professional PCA SKIN chemical peels and microneedling, allowing our providers to recommend a treatment plan based on your skin, your concerns and the results you're hoping to achieve.
For someone primarily looking for brighter, refreshed skin, a PCA SKIN chemical peel may be a great option on its own. But for patients looking to address stubborn pigmentation while also improving texture and overall skin quality, combining treatments may offer an even more comprehensive approach.
The best place to start? Let us take a look at your skin and create a plan specifically for you.
Book your PCA SKIN chemical peel or ask us whether a chemical peel + microneedling treatment plan may be right for you. We look forward to seeing you in our chair!
Book Your Chemical Peel Consultation.
Individual results vary. Treatment recommendations are based on individual skin concerns, medical history and provider assessment. The clinical study discussed above evaluated a specific combination treatment protocol; your Esteem Medical Aesthetics provider will recommend treatments appropriate for your individual needs.
