How to Apply a TCA Peel

Chemical peels induce the sloughing off of dead, discolored, wrinkled or otherwise damaged skin and facilitate the generation of newer, more attractive skin. Do-it-yourself TCA (trichloroacetic acid) peels are a good option for those seeking better than minimal skin improvement without spending thousands of dollars on more expensive treatments. At the same time, knowing how to properly apply the peel and care for the treated skin afterward is vital in achieving the results you are seeking.

Things You'll Need

• TCA peel solution
• cotton swabs
• SPF lotion (at least 30)
• facial toner
• mild facial soap
• skin moisturizer

Instructions

Applying a TCA Peel

1. Wash the surface of your skin with a mild soap to remove all oil and makeup, scrubbing gently so the skin doesn't break (making it incompatible for the peel). Gently pat the skin dry, then apply an alcohol-based toner with a cotton swab to remove remnants. Allow to dry completely.

2. Apply the TCA peel solution to the skin surface using a clean cotton swab. The application should be even around the skin, while avoiding the mouth, eyes and inner nostrils.

3. Leave the TCA peel solution on your skin according to strength of the peel and the specific directions provided with the solution itself. It is normal to experience a slight burning sensation on the applied areas, especially if the TCA is a stronger strength. The total time period should generally not exceed 10 minutes.

4. Rinse the TCA peel solution off of the applied area(s) with tepid water. The rinse has to be thorough as its continued application on the skin after the suggested time period may cause permanent damage.

5. Allow your skin to peel and slough off on its own in the coming days and weeks, although a gentle moisturizer can be used during this period if desired. In total, peeling may continue for as many as two to three weeks; as long as the shedding skin is dead and no inflammation or open sores develop, a dermatologist's consultation should not be necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• If the TCA peel solution you choose is 10 percent strength or higher, plan on staying at home for at least a week after application. Keeping your skin away from the elements will hasten your skin's recovery and improve the results of the peel. A vital key to the success of the peel is the avoidance of direct sunlight and elemental exposure to the treated areas; this includes using a strong SPF of at least 30 during your healing period and even after your new skin has risen to the surface.

• Following the methods listed in Steps 1-4, perform a patch test on a tiny area of your skin a day before applying the TCA peel in order to detect possible adverse reactions. Do not apply the TCA solution to broken, bleeding or otherwise opened skin surfaces. This may result in adverse affects ranging from painful burning to permanent scarring. Only apply TCA peels if you fully understand all the directions and risks of the specific peel solution you have chosen. In many cases, consultation with a dermatologist may be necessary to determine if any kind of TCA peel is appropriate for your skin type.

References

• Precautions for Applying a TCA Peel
• Safely Using TCA Peels

Resources

• Purchase At-Home TCA Peels Online