Medium-depth chemical peels, done with trichloracetic acid (TCA), remove sun-damaged surface layers of the skin. They can also eliminate precancerous skin lesions and actinic keratoses, as well as fine lines and brown spots. These peels are safe, with a healing time of five to ten days, during which you will need to keep out of the public eye and care for your newly exposed skin. TCA peels are a more aggressive form of treatment than salicylic acid and typically used for patients with more advanced photoaging. It is an excellent, safe, time-tested procedure in the hands of skilled physicians such as ours.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a TCA Chemical Peel?
If your skin defects are minor and you want to improve your skin’s appearance without undergoing a more intrusive treatment with longer downtime, a TCA chemical peel may be right for you.
Patients with a history of aberrant skin scarring and a naturally dark complexion or skin tone may be unsuitable for a TCA chemical peel treatment. Additionally, it is not normally suggested for those who heal slowly due to its harshness on the skin.
If you have a history of scar pigmentation or skin disorders, this peel may not be for you. If you regularly take medications that make your skin more sensitive than usual, it may be best to avoid this type of peel.
The Procedure
A standard TCA chemical peel treatment takes 20 to 25 minutes, but please allow at least 45 minutes in our office for preparatory time. To begin, our skilled professionals will thoroughly cleanse your skin. Multiple applications of the TCA solution will be carried out. At this point, you may experience a small stinging sensation, which is typical and will pass shortly.
How Many TCA Chemical Peel Treatments Do I Need?
More than one TCA chemical peel treatment may be required to achieve the desired outcome. Treatments should be spaced out over a few months to allow your skin to repair and renew in between sessions. We will create a treatment plan for you based on the state of your skin and the goals you want to reach.
What to Expect After a TCA Chemical Peel Treatment
Following your TCA chemical peel treatment, peeling can take around 7 to 10 days. Since the treatment removes dead surface-skin cells, you may experience mild redness, skin irritation, and flaking. Other parts of the body will react differently, since the texture of your skin on your face and scalp differs from that of your arms, back, chest, and legs.
A few days following your TCA chemical peel therapy, the treated skin may temporarily become rough, spotty, and discolored. This is typical and to be expected, and it will resolve itself. The nose and mouth are frequently the first parts to peel, but it can start anywhere. Peeling usually begins on the third- or fourth-day following treatment.
Once all healing is complete, patients can enjoy smoother and firmer skin without superficial blemishes or fine wrinkles. Acne scars will also be diminished.
TCA Chemical Peel Treatment Aftercare
Because your skin will be creating new cells after your TCA chemical peel, these cells will require additional protection from the environment. To safeguard your newly rejuvenated skin, avoid sun exposure for at least 3 to 6 months after treatment.
Apply a cold compress to the treated area(s) as needed to relieve any burning or irritation caused by the treatment. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 2 to 3 days following treatment, since it may aggravate the inflammatory process and cause your skin to become very irritated.
Contact Us to Learn More
To learn more about the benefits of a TCA chemical peel in Tinley Park, contact Dermatology Associates today and schedule an appointment.
I have been a patient of Dr. Mesirow for 30 years. I have always been extremely satisfied with my treatment & care. Everyone is friendly & professional.
