TCA (trichloracetic acid) is a non-toxic chemical that has been used as a skin peel for more than 20 years. It is a close relative of acetic acid (vinegar). When TCA is applied on the skin, it causes skin layers to dry out and peel up over a period of one week. Once the old skin peels away, it ends up exposing a fresh layer of undamaged skin that has a more even color and smoother texture.

A lot of dermatologists prefer TCA to treat melasma or sun damage, in combination with a prescription cream. TCA is safe in the hands of a board-certified plastic surgeon. TCA is a particularly good option if you suffer from melasma, since it can be quite difficult to use lasers to treat it.

What Conditions Does the Peel Treat?

TCA peels are most commonly used to treat the following issues:

• Age spots and brown spots
• Dull, worn, sun-damaged skin
• Melasma
• Certain types of acne
• Fine lines

How Exactly Do They Work?

Peels basically work by removing sun-damaged skin. “Light,” or superficial, peels remove the top layer (mostly dead skin). As the strength of the peel solution increases, so does its ability to remove deeper layers of the skin. Deep TCA peels reach deeper to solve harsh skin issues. The stronger the peel solution gets, the greater the chances of complications, so you need to make sure that the treatment is administered by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon.

Deep peels require fewer treatments than shallow peels. They necessitate some downtime, especially when the peeling is obvious. During your consultation, you’ll learn about the best ways to take care of your skin following a deep peel. Follow these instructions as closely as possible. After the healing is complete, you’ll be ready to show off your radiant and youthful-looking skin!

What Are the Areas That Can Be Treated with Peels?

With TCA peels, we typically treat the full face and the neck in order to revitalize these areas comprehensively. It’s even safe for the eyelids, which are delicate areas that are not always treatable with other methods of skin rejuvenation.

How Long Do the Effects Last?

This depends to a large extent on the exact chemical makeup of the peel and the extent of your sun exposure. Your plastic surgeon can give you a fair estimate during your consultation.

Is the Treatment Painful?

You will feel a slight temporary stinging sensation when the peel is applied to your face. Some doctors use a hand fan to cool the skin down, lessening discomfort. They then apply an ointment to speed up the healing. Following this, the doctor will give you specific post-care instructions that need to be followed to the letter.

Schedule Your Appointment

If a deep TCA peel or another of our peel options sounds like a great solution for you, contact the office of experienced double-board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Adil Ceydeli. Dr. Ceydeli will be happy to explain the peel process in greater detail. Contact us today to arrange a consultation.