A facial acid peel can be used to remove skin anomalies such as wrinkles, brown spots, blotches and acne scars. TCA refreshes the top layer of skin by removing dead skin cells that may contribute to a dry, dull appearance. It is considered a "medium" peel procedure and is less invasive than deeper peels. Multiple TCA peels may be necessary to remove deeper lines or darker discolorations.
TCA Acid Peel Costs and Procedure
Professional trichloracetic acid (TCA) facial acid peels are performed in plastic surgery or doctors offices, and the concentration of the trichloracetic acid can be anywhere from 10% to 50% depending on the skin sensitivity and the desired results. An acid face peel usually takes between 15 minutes to an hour from application to removal and can cost anywhere from $500 to $2500. Chemical peel results can last from a few months to a few years depending on the strength of the peel, prior skin damage, and skin care regimen. They can help to make pores smaller and give the face a more vibrant appearance.
Preparing for an Acid Face Peel
Before the TCA peel the doctor may prescribe Retin-A or alpha-hydroxy lotion to prepare the skin for the acid face peel. Both of these creams will help to remove the top skin layers and allow for deeper penetration of the chemical peel. Creams should be applied for 5 to 14 days in the morning and at night (or according to doctor instructions) before getting a chemical peel.
Cleansing before Facial Skin Peels
A doctor will cleanse the skin prior to performing the peel procedure. He/she will then use a brush to apply TCA to the face by starting at the least sensitive areas of the chin, forehead, cheeks and nose. There may be some burning during application of the chemical peel. The peel is left on the face for a few minutes or more, and then a neutralizer is applied using an applicator brush, cotton swabs or other cloth material. Finally the peel is rinsed and washed off the face with a gentle cleanser. An oil based ointment is then applied to the face to promote healing.
Skin Care after a TCA Acid Peel
The TCA peel procedure will cause your skin to peel for a few days as dead skin comes off. New skin may be bright red. The face should be washed with a gentle cleanser twice daily, and ointment should be applied (doctor prescribed), antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly to the face to keep it moist. Ibuprofen is usually sufficient for any discomfort.
Side Effects of a Facial Acid Peel
TCA chemical peels may cause some individuals to experience side effects including redness, blotchiness, peeling, itching and discomfort. Swelling and facial tingling may also occur. Generally side effects are a part of the skin rejuvenating and will usually disappear after a week or less. After having an acid face peel, individuals should avoid exposure to sunlight, and apply sunscreen before going outside after having a TCA peel.
At home Facial Peels
TCA home facial peels contain milder solutions than those provided in a doctor's office. Any acid facial peel over 20% should be performed in a doctor's office. Solutions up to 15% are most often left on the skin for up to 5 minutes and can provide a fresher appearance without significant skin peeling. The same application that is used in the doctor's office is used at home facial peels as well. Most TCA peel kits can be purchased online and come with a peel solution, neutralizer and instructions. Individuals should always do a patch test by applying solution to the inside elbow for a few minutes to test for allergic reaction prior to applying solution to the face.
Resources
(2009). Chemical Peel-TCA Peel. Retrieved from http://www.cosmeticsurgeryuc.com/procedures/TCA_Peels.shtml
Loftus, Dr. J. (2009). Medium Chemical Peels. Retrieved from http://www.infoplasticsurgery.com/facial/peels/tca-peels/
American Society of Plastic Surgeons, . (2009). Chemical Peel. Retrieved from http://www.plasticsurgery.org/Patients_and_Consumers/Procedures/Cosmetic_Procedures/Chemical_Peel.html
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