How to Use TCA
Trichloracetic acid, which is also known as TCA, is a chemical peel. It helps minimize the appearance is superficial scarring, fine lines or skin pigmentation problems by peeling away the top layers of skin and promoting collagen production. It does not work on deep scarring or deep wrinkles. When using a home TCA kit, you need to use it properly for the best results. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Retin A
- Vitamin C complex
- Mild cleanser
- Towel
- Gloves
- TCA
- Applicator brush
- Antibacterial ointment
- Cotton pads
- Emu oil
- Sunscreen
Instructions
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1
Prepare the skin for one week beforehand. Apply Retin A and a vitamin C complex product to minimize the risk of discoloration and improve the results.
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Perform a patch test the day before using the product. Apply a bit of the TCA to a small and unnoticeable area with the applicator brush. Allow it to sit on the skin for about ten minutes and rinse it off. Watch for reactions like blistering or breaking out in hives. If blistering occurs, the acid is too strong and you should see a doctor before using TCA. If hives occur, you are allergic to the chemical and should not use TCA.
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3
Clean the skin with a mild cleanser and blot your face dry. Do not use the Retin A or vitamin C complex on the day of the peel. Put on a pair of gloves to protect your hands.
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4
Brush TCA onto the skin with the applicator brush. If your directions suggest using another item, such as a cotton ball, use the directions suggested by the product for application. Allow it to sit on your skin for 10 minutes. TCA naturally stops working within five to eight minutes, according to the website MakeupArtistsChoice.com, so it should no longer be working after 10 minutes. Rinse it off gently, or use a wet cotton pad to remove it.
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5
Allow your skin to dry. You can blot the skin with a clean towel, but do not rub. The skin is raw, so rubbing is painful.
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Put an antibacterial ointment on the skin. For the first 24 to 48 hours, the ointment is needed to help sooth the skin and prevent infections and minimize scarring.
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Apply emu oil to the skin. After the first 24 to 48 hours, emu oil is used to keep the skin from drying out. At this point, you should also put on sunscreen every day and minimize sun exposure. The skin will start to peel within three or four days and should continue peeling for up to 14 days, depending on the strength of the acid.
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Tips & Warnings
If the TCA burns too much, you can neutralize it by mixing 2 tbsp. of baking soda with 1 cup of cool water, dip a cotton pad or cotton ball into the mixture and apply it over the skin. This will help sooth the skin, while also making the acid inactive.
If planning to use 20 percent TCA or higher, consult a doctor.
