How to Use A TCA Peel To Lighten Skin Scarring or Pigmentation

TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid) is a common skin peeling agent used by dermatologists, cosmeticians and plastic surgeons to help remove fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars. A TCA skin peel is a medium to light peel, which creates a balanced, controlled exfoliation of several layers of damaged epidermis. This exposes a new, fresh layer of skin and pores. In addition, the TCA peel stimulates new cells to grow, thereby tightening the skin and decreasing lines and wrinkles as well as softening acne scars depending on the depth and indentation. If you are looking to tighten your skin, soften acne scars and lighten age spots or freckles, here are some tips on how to use a TCA peel.

Things You'll Need

• 10-15% TCA Peel
• Neosporin
• Water
• Baking soda
• Moisturizing facial cleanser

Instructions

1. Prep your face by removing any traces of makeup and wash it with a highly moisturizing facial skin cleanser, this can be a soap or liquid cleanser and dry thoroughly. Applying to damp skin will lessen the results. Also, note that after you apply your peel, your skin will be peeling daily for 7-10 days, so plan accordingly if you work or will be out in public or out in the sun too.

2. Apply vaseline around your eye sockets, nose and corners of your mouth. The TCA peel is not a deep peel, but it is not thoroughly moderate and can easily burn highly sensitive areas of your skin if you are not careful nor watchful.

3. Use a q-tip to apply the solution so that your fingers do not peel and apply to your cheek area, forehead and chin, being mindful of your mouth, ears, eyes and nose. Apply liberally using back and forth motions until you cover all areas of treatment thoroughly.

4. Leave on for 3-4 minutes depending on how long you can take. If the peel is between 10-15% TCA, it shouldn't be too uncomfortable. You can stand in front of cool air if that helps you while waiting. Once the 3-4 minutes is up, pour baking soda in water, mix and apply to skin to ensure the peel is fully neutralized. Do not rub, just apply lightly. Your skin may frost, this is normal, don't worry, it will subside. If it doesn't frost, it will be red. Once your skin is neutralized, wash with your moisturizing cleanser and cold water to calm and cool the skin and pat dry. Apply neosporin for moisture.

5. For the next 3-4 days, you may experience peeling. This is what you want. Do not pick the skin by any means, you can easily cause irritation and infection. If you will be in the sun during this time, always use a sunscreen of 30 SPF or higher, your skin will be very photosensitive during this time.

6. Once skin has completely peeled, continue with your normal routine. You can do a TCA peel every two weeks as needed, but after 3 subsequent applications, you should wait two to three months before applying again as it can also thin out your skin.

Tips & Warnings

• When you order your TCA peel, always follow the instructions you receive to the letter and do not purchase from an unauthorized, unknown seller ever.

• Do not apply TCA higher than 20% at home, you risk scarring, depigmentation and more. If you need something of that strength or higher, consult with your dermatologist or cosmetologist.