Chemical Peels

A chemical peel can reduce the appearance of sun damage and retexturize the skin.

A chemical peel can reduce the appearance of sun damage and retexturize the skin.The acronym “TCA” is for trichloracetic acid – a non-toxic, safe chemical used for facial skin peel treatments. When the TCA is applied to the skin’s epidermis, the top layers of cells dry and peel over a period of 5-7 days, resulting in smoother, rejuvenated, and younger-looking skin.

TCA chemical peels are ideal for treating the following skin conditions:

• Freckles, blemishes, and uneven pigmentation
• Wrinkles, fine lines, enlarged pores
• Acne scarring and other scars
• Sun damage and “sun spots”

  • TCA peels provide exfoliation that is deeper and more extensive than a typical aesthetic peel, facial or microdermabrasion. A TCA peel may also be done in conjunction with other facial treatments including microneedling, IPL Photofacial and ResurFX to further improve the overall tone and texture of the skin.

  • Though often used on facial skin, TCA peels also can be safely applied to other areas such as the décolletage (cleavage), neck, hands, or the back. Often it is used to improve the texture and tone and improve the appearance of sun damage on the arms, legs and shoulders.

  • First, your skin is thoroughly cleansed. Your provider will then apply the TCA solution to your skin in several coats. You may feel a mild burning or stinging sensation but this will pass quickly. The actual treatment time is very short. A typical TCA facial peel takes no more than 20-25 minutes. Recovery time varies from patient to patient, but usually it takes anywhere from 5-7 days depending on the strength and depth of your peel.

  • Typically, more than one TCA peel will  be needed to obtain your desired result. The treatment series are ideally scheduled 4-6 week apart  to allow your skin to heal and rejuvenate between sessions. Your provider will advise you as to a recommended treatment plan based on your skin’s condition and desired results.

    Prescription topical skin care products such as Retin-A will help to prepare your skin for treatment and maintain treatment results.

  • Certain chemical peels may be left on the skin for several hours after treatment. It is important to remove the peel at the recommended time to end the chemical peel process. Gentle cleansing, moisturizing  and sunblock should be used for the first few days after treatment. 

    After your TCA chemical peel your skin will be rejuvenating and generating new cell growth so it will need extra protection from sun and wind. To protect your newly rejuvenated skin you are advised to avoid sun exposure after treatment to maintain your treatment results. 

    Medical grade skin care will  supplement and maintain your chemical peel results.