TCA Chemical Peels

A chemical peel is most commonly performed for cosmetic reasons, to enhance appearance and self-confidence. However a chemical peel is not a substitute for a facelift, and does not prevent or slow the ageing process.

TCA peels are cosmetic treatments that use trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to improve your skin’s appearance.
TCA peel dissolves cells in the top layer of your skin (epidermis). As the skin that’s been affected by TCA application peels off, new cell growth is encouraged underneath. Once that top layer of skin has peeled off, a layer of brand-new skin cells becomes visible. Often, the new layer of skin is smoother and less affected by “imperfections”. After the skin comes off completely, the skin underneath may appear firmer, smoother, brighter, and more youthful. These Chemical peels can be performed on the face, hands and other body areas.

What conditions can improve with treatment?

Age spots, usually categorised by flat, brown areas with round edges most commonly found on the face, hands, back and feet. They are age related and sun damage related. While they can be unsightly, they are not usually dangerous. Solar keratosis and some hyper pigmented areas due to hormonal changes and sun damage can also be improved.

Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) can be successful in treating:

• Reduction of fine surface wrinkles

• Reduction of superficial blemishes

• Correction of some pigmentation problems

• Reduction of Acne/Acne scarring 

Side Effects

Initial reactions include redness to the skin, irritation, itchiness, dryness and in some cases swelling.
It is common for most patients to experience transient hyperpigmentation (age spots/pigment & skin darkens before it improves). Skin will become dry become tight before it starts to peel & shed around day 3. The shedding process can be quite intense and it is normal for the skin to peel off in patches over the course of several days (approx 5 days).
Although very rare, there may be in some cases a risk of blistering or infection.

Treatment Process

Skin is first cleansed thoroughly. The TCA solution is then carefully applied. An intense stinging sensation may be felt but this will quickly pass. A hand held fan will be given to help ease the heat and stinging sensation. Then the post peel cream will be applied which will instantly calm the uncomfortable stinging sensation. This process may be performed up to 3 times during a single treatment depending on skin reaction and client tolerance at each stage. Two or more TCA peels may be required to obtain the desired improvements.

TCA Peel Post treatment advice

• DO NOT cleanse face or splash on face until full day after treatment.

• DO NOT exfoliate skin during the next 7 days.

• DO NOT use products containing Glycolic or Retinal for at least 7 days post treatment.

• DO NOT PICK OR PEEL SKIN.

• AVOID sun beds and natural sun tanning for 1 month following treatment.

• Skin will be tight for 1-2 days, peeling may begin around day 3.

• Skin may darken during the healing process.

• Keep skin well moisturised with cream recommended by your practitioner (Epionce medical barrier is recommended).

• Apply a high SPF is required even in normal daylight for protection against hypo/hyper pigmentation.