Frequently Asked Questions About TCA Peels
Some aspects of the chemical peel procedure differ according to the type of peel (light, medium, or deep) being administered. However, all skin peel procedures follow the same basic protocols:
The chemical peel is administered in a doctor’s office, surgery center, or hospital by a trained cosmetic practitioner.
The patient is given a sedative to aid relaxation.
The practitioner cleanses the patient’s skin and applies a powerful prescription topical numbing cream to the treatment area.
A local numbing block may be administered to further numb the area.
The practitioner then applies the chemical peel solution. This solution is formulated according to each patient’s specific needs and goals. It is common for the patient to feel a tingling or stinging sensation as the chemical peel is applied.
After the skin peel solution has been on the skin for the prescribed amount of time, it is washed off with water. A soothing ointment is then applied; a thick coating of petroleum jelly is often used after TCA chemical peels.
The practitioner then instructs the patient on aftercare, and the practitioner may suggest use of a mild pain reliever for discomfort after the procedure.
Sun exposure is prohibited while the skin heals.
Though deep (phenol) peels are only appropriate for the face, the skin on any part of the body can be treated with mild and medium skin peels.
The chemical solution for body chemical peels is typically comprised of a combination of trichloroacetic acid (the main ingredient in a medium-depth skin peel) and glycolic acid (the main ingredient of a mild peel). The solution for body chemical peels is typically formulated to be slightly stronger than the chemical solution used for light or medium facial skin peels, though it is milder than the phenol solution used for deep skin peels.
As with facial chemical peels, body peels address the effects of sun damage, even out skin pigmentation, and improve skin texture. Chemical peels can also be used on the body to minimize stretch marks.
For light and medium skin peels, no general anesthetia or sedation is necessary. Patients are prepped with local prescription numbing cream and mild sedation medication to alleviate discomfort. Because of the use of sedation medication, patients are required to have a responsible driver to take them to and from our office the day of their procedure.
The area being treated is well numbed and patients are relaxed with a mild sedative medication. In general, patients only feel a mild stinging sensation during light or medium chemical peels. After the procedure, the practitioner may suggest a mild pain reliever to relieve any discomfort.
After a patient undergoes a TCA peel, the treated layers of skin gradually flake away, revealing a new layer of skin.
The recovery time after a chemical peel depends on the strength of peel administered, because each strength of peel affects the skin to a different degree.
With a Medium Depth TCA peel, a period of one week is needed for recovery. The new layer of skin appears three to seven days after treatment. After 7 days, you can resume using makeup and return to work and normal activities. About two weeks after treatment, the skin will be fully healed.
Typically, the stronger and deeper the peel, the longer the recovery will be, but also the results will be more significant.
As soon as you finish peeling you will see results. Your skin will continue to improve for 30-60 days provided you protect it from the sun.
TCA chemical peels are not a substitute for dermal fillers or cosmetic surgery. TCA peels can be performed in conjunction with other aesthetic treatments for replacing volume, tightening skin, and achieving optimal results.
Some of the results from a TCA peel lead to permanent improvements in the skin. Overall, the length of results will depend on the depth of the peel, your age and skin condition, and the extent of your continuing sun exposure. Your skin will continue to age, but you have a new starting point, with fresher, improved skin.