TCA peels are a well-known solution that is crucial for skincare. The chemical helps in removing skin conditions like acne and also acts as an anti-aging product. The peels incorporate ingredients like glycolic acid to help remove dry and dead skin cells. So, what is TCA peel? How is it applied? Does the procedure have side effects? This blog will discuss more on these.
TCA Peels Definition
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is a chemical agent that helps in repairing and regenerating dry or damaged skin. TCA comes in different forms depending on its concentration and the addition of other chemical agents.
For concentration, TCA peel ranges from superficial, medium, or deep. When it comes to chemical agent addition, there are TCA peels that contain chemicals like salicylic acid in them. Therefore, before you buy any TCA peel, it is recommended that you get a professional guide.
TCA peels contain an acid (Trichloroacetic acid) that aids in clearing dead skin layers, creating room for cell formation and growth. TCA also helps in removing scar lines and hyperpigmentation.
Types of TCA Peels
TCA peels vary mainly on skin penetration depth. This means that there are light, medium, and deep TCA peels. When it comes to light TCA peel, the process can only be able to penetrate the outer layer of the skin using salicylic and glycolic acids. Light peels also cause changes in skin color and have the quickest recovery time.
Medium chemical peels tend to penetrate more than superficial peels. The process combines stronger acids like TCA for effective skin penetration. The side effects found in medium chemical peels also last longer than light chemical peels as well.
Deep chemical peel penetrates up to the dermis layer of the skin. This process uses phenol as the main exfoliant and requires more post-treatment care than the other types of TCA peels. Deep chemical treatment is not suitable for dark-skinned individuals since it can lead to hyperpigmentation.
Significance of Applying TCA Peels
TCA peels play a crucial role in ensuring that your skin is healthy. The solution offers the following benefits to the skin when done correctly:
Reduces Acne Spots
The use of medium TCA peels will help remove acne spots easily. Typically, the chemical peel removes the outer layer of dead skin cells, thereby acting as an exfoliant. Since your skin can regenerate through collagen, peel will clear acne spots and provide a space for cell growth.
Smoothen Wrinkles
Wrinkle reduction is one of the reasons why people perform chemical peel procedures. TCA peels act as an anti-aging agent and can help reduce wrinkles on the face and other parts of the body. The results will be toned, smooth, and younger-looking skin after a given period of TCA peel application.
Scrapes Off Sun-damaged Skin
Extreme sun exposure can damage your skin, creating spots and wrinkles. TCA peels help to scrap off wrinkles and spots caused by sun radiation, leading to smooth skin and a youthful appearance.
TCA Peels Application Process
Tca peel application is a simple process that will take less time. The entire application process can take between 5 minutes to half an hour, depending on the kind of TCA pee you are applying. If you choose to go to a dermatologist, ensure that your skin is clean from anything like dust or even makeup.
If you are undergoing medium or deep peel therapy, the specialist may require you to use a given kind of pain reliever during the session. To start off, the specialist will have to protect sensitive areas like the nose, eyelids, and lips using a coating.
The specialist will then use a gauze pad or soft cotton to apply the peel around your face. The treated parts will have a warm and tingly feeling. Since people’s skin may react differently to the agent, the specialist will determine the safe layers of peel to perform.
After some time, cold water and balm will help cool down and protect your skin. To summarize, below is a step-by-step TCA peels application procedure:
Skin Cleansing
Skin cleansing involves preparing the skin for the peeling procedure. The process involves getting rid of any dust, oil, or makeup using the recommended cleanser. If the skin is exceptionally oily, some pre-peel agents can help remove the oil as well.
Peel Application
After the skin is spotless, specialists may use cotton pads or brushes to smear TCA to the skin. The layers will differ depending on the kind of TCA peel being used. When it comes to the deep TCA procedure, there will be frosting, which means that the peel is working effectively.
Skin Neutralization and Cooling
When it’s time to remove the peeling solution from the skin, the specialist will rinse using water or even use other neutralizing solutions. The skin will also need to be cooled using ice bags or applying a cool compress.
Skin Recovery
Skin recovery will vary depending on the depth of the peel used. Usually, you will require at least two weeks for the skin to heal. Skin recovery can also differ from person to person due to variables like skin type and overall health as well.
Side Effects of Using TCA Peels
TCA peels require the assistance of a professional when using it. Nonetheless, side effects will always prevail depending on the strength of the peel. The typical side effects to experience in all depths of the peel are cold sores, swelling, skin redness, and swelling, among others. Let’s cover the side effects of each depth of TCA peel:
Superficial TCA Peel Application
In superficial TCA peel application, most side effects don’t last for long. There are effects like skin redness and tingly sensations that will take a few hours to heal. For you to have a quick and smooth recovery, specialists recommend that you avoid direct sunlight and use moisturizers more often. Overall, light chemical peel application does not have as many side effects as the other depths.
Medium TCA Peel Application
Medium peel application have side effects that will take more time to heal than light chemical peel. The side effects include prolonged skin redness, changes in skin color, and edema. Typically, the side effects can still be noticeable for up to 30 days.
Specialists recommend that you have a skilled expert around when performing this level of peel application. Additionally, there should be a post-consultation with a dermatologist on how to keep your skin safe and healthy throughout the healing period.
Deep TCA Peel Application
This is the level with the most side effects, like extreme scarring, skin redness, and swelling. The process also takes a longer time for healing when compared to light and medium TCA peel application. The ideal way to ensure that you recover well is to have a proper treatment plan and have regular visits to the dermatologist to track the healing process.
Safety Measures When Applying TCA Peels
There are specific safety measures you should take during pre-treatment and post-treatment. These measures ensure that you take precautions before the peeling process and also fasten the healing process as well. Let’s begin with pretreatment safety measures:
Pretreatment TCA Peel Measures
Pretreatment involves examining and undergoing a TCA procedure. Typically, the skin care professional will need to check on your medical background, current skin conditions, and skin type to assess whether you are fit for the procedure.
The pretreatment TCA peel procedure also involves patient evaluation. It is at this stage where you can discuss with the specialist your worries and expectations of the chemical peels. Having this communication provides information about what is possible with the chemical. Some of the measures include the following:
Conducting a Patch Test
A path test is critical before undergoing TCA peeling. The main reason why you need to perform a patch test is to prevent any allergic responses. Skincare products like TCA peel can have ingredients that may cause itching or even swelling.
Apart from allergic reactions, patch tests also help those individuals who can be sensitive to other components of the chemicals not limited to allergens. Patch test also helps to guide you on the kind of chemical peel to perform safely without causing skin irritation.
Using the Recommended Skin Medications
Using recommended skin products will help reduce the risks of getting allergies and other side effects during the TCA peeling procedure. Typically, most specialists advise you to use products that contain. Glycolic acid, retinol, and salicylic acid 2 days before undergoing the procedure. Additionally, avoid direct sun radiation for at least 5 weeks before going for the procedure as well.
Choosing a Certified Skin Care Professional
Choose a certified skincare expert who is knowledgeable about chemical peels. The specialist should have certification in courses like dermatology, beauty, or medicine. TCA peels can be harmful when performed in the wrong way and might cause permanent damage to your skin.
Post-treatment TCA Peel Measures
Some of the standard instructions to follow include:
- For deep TCA peel, you may experience swelling for a while. Therefore, rub ice bags around the affected areas to cool down and reduce the swellings.
- Apply the recommended moisturizer on the affected area to avoid having dry or tight skin. Ensure that you apply it more often.
- Wash the skin with cold water twice a day. Avoid using scented soaps and other strong cleansers.
- If at some point you need to bask in the sun, ensure that the radiation is below SPF30 each day. Higher SPFs tend to cause skin irritations.
- Make a regular visit to the dermatologists for checkups and other related things.
Is TCA Peel Suitable for Everyone?
TCA peel is not suitable for everyone, regardless of its benefits to the skin. The majority of people who greatly benefit from the procedure are those who wish to remove acne, dark spots, and sun wrinkles.
The peel’s primary role is to clear out old cells and create collagen, which is responsible for skin smoothening. Therefore, not everyone will be able to benefit from the procedure; it is only those with skin conditions.
Cost of TCA Peels
When it comes to cost, TCA peel price may differ depending on the kind, location, and specialist experience. However, the average price of TCA peel is $650. The light TCA peels are cheaper and usually cost about $350 for every procedure. Medium and deep TCA peel sessions may cost up to $1000 and $3000, respectively.
Is TCA Worthwhile Compared to Other Cosmetic Procedures?
Trichloroacetic acid peel is diverse in that the procedures help to solve several skin issues. Most of the other cosmetic procedures only treat a specific skin condition. When it comes to affordability, TCA peels are also affordable compared to other related procedures. This is because the procedure helps in improving pigmentation issues, acne, and wrinkles, among others.
Overall, even though TCA is better than other cosmetic procedures, it is essential to consult an expert about your skin needs and other cosmetic procedures you can use apart from TCA peels.
Performing TCA Peel at Home
It is possible to have the TCA peel procedure done at home if you don’t want to go to skincare facilities. You will also end up saving money since you will not be attending appointments. However, performing the TCA procedure requires a lot of research since you may not have the knowledge needed. Deep TCA procedures might be risky when performed at home. Therefore, you can hire a skincare professional to come and do the procedure for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is TCA peel suitable for all skin tones?
Yes, but it can lead to hyperpigmentation for dark-skinned persons. Before applying any peel, it can be ideal to consult dermatologists for guidance. These professionals will help you choose the right type of TCA peels and provide a convenient treatment plan for you to follow.
Q2. How long does it take to get results after applying TCA?
Skin change starts becoming visible as early as 2 to 4 weeks. It is during this period that the skin heals and begins to regenerate. However, immediate skin changes like skin complexion and texture will be noticeable over several days of application.
Q3. Does TCA peels interfere with skin melanin?
Yes, TCA peels alter the skin melanin by reducing its intensity, which leads to improved skin complexion and texture.
Q4. How often can I use TCA peels?
You should apply TCA peels every 6 to 12 weeks to allow the skin to repair fully. Applying TCA peels repeatedly can lead to over-exfoliation.
Q5. Can I perform TCA peels at home?
If you wish to apply TCA peels at home, it is advisable to have professional supervision. Lack of professional assistance can lead to excessive use of the chemical, which has adverse effects on the skin.
Q6. Can I perform other skincare routines together with tca peel?
Yes, it is possible to have multiple skincare routines done. However, before undertaking the procedures, consult a specialist to avoid making cosmetic mistakes.
