TCA & Phenol Peels Overview

A TCA peel is a type of chemical peel using trichloracetic acid to remove the outer layers of skin, allowing healthier skin to surface. TCA (Trichloracetic Acid) is a non-toxic chemical that has been used for over 30 years in skin peels. TCA peels are considered to be "medium depth" and may have a shorter recovery time than with a deep peel. They are also especially effective for darker skin tones. A TCA peel would be used to treat conditions such as fine wrinkles, sun damage, blotchy skin, freckles and minor acne scarring.

Time Required

A TCA peel, depending on the area being treated, usually takes about 30-90 minutes.

Side Effects

As with most peels, TCA peel side effects can include reddish skin and peeling that may continue for 4-10 days.

Risks

There are few permanent risks to TCA peels. With any medical procedure, it is important to discuss potential risks with your doctor, nurse, or technician.

Results Duration

TCA peel results last anywhere from 6 to 24 months. This can vary with each patient's continue skin care efforts. Talk to your provider about the best post-peel regimen.

Recovery

There should be no discomfort following a TCA peel. Recovery will involve initial hardening of the outerlayers of skin, followed by flaking off of skin in 4-10 days. No downtime is required for physical reasons, but for cosmetic reasons, many patients stay home from work for about 7 days.

Discomfort Level

With a TCA peel, discomfort is minimal. It consists of a burning sensation on the skin during initial application, lasting about 5-10 minutes.

Anesthesia

For a TCA peel, anesthesia or sedation is rarely required.

Inpatient/Outpatient

Outpatient.

Can be combined with

For enhanced results, a TCA peel might be combined with Botox, collagen or other injectables. Some patients enjoy the complimentary effects of various facelifts as well.

TCA & Phenol Peels also known as

TCA treatment, TCA chemical peel, chemical peel, Trichloracetic