Trichloroacetic acid TCA 15%, 25%, 35%
TCA peeling (Mediderma) - a classic medium peeling, is one of the main methods for correcting wrinkles and other age-related skin changes, as well as post-acne scars and stretch marks. Depending on the concentration of TCA peeling penetrates to different depths required in each specific case. This is an ideal peeling for local use in the area of creases and deep wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and various skin texture disorders.
What drugs are we talking about?
The line of such drugs is presented below.
- Easy TCA Peel. The acid concentration in this product is 15%. The composition also uses a small amount of acids such as ascorbic and citric. Additionally, saponins are present, thanks to which it is possible to achieve deeper penetration of the drug.
Easy TCA Peel - TCA Peel solution. In this preparation, the concentration of the solution is increased to 20%. The drug also contains various amino acids. In general, medium peeling procedures are recommended for use on the skin of the body, avoiding contact of the composition with the face.
- Only Touch Peel. The concentration of the solution in this product is 40%. Procedures based on this drug are called deep chemical peeling, carried out exclusively on certain areas of the skin of the body.
Only Touch Peel
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to material components
- Infectious skin diseases (trichophytia, microsporia, etc.)
- Herpes in the acute stage
- Violation of the integrity of the skin
- Chronic dermatoses in the acute stage
- Excessive insolation
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Tendency to develop hyperpigmentation
Preparations necessary for peeling
- Cleanser Mousse Medic Control Peel (MCP)
- Prepeel Lotion
- Exfoliation material TCAREEL 15% or TCAREEL 25% Composition: trichloroacetic acid in concentrations of 15% or 25%
- Revitalizing cream Vegefarma MCP
Home care products
- Cleanser Mousse MCP or Gentle Cleanser Mousse Mesaltera
- Prepeel Active MCP Pre-Peeling Cream
- Revitalizing cream Vegefarma MCP or Thriphalan MCP
- Sunscreen MediScreen MCP
Action of acid
The mechanism of action of the substance allows us to draw a conclusion about the indications for the procedure. In other words, the substance allows you to obtain effects such as:
- cleansing Thanks to the acid, the upper layers of the epidermis are cleansed of impurities, making the skin soft and smooth;
- regeneration. Organic acid components affect the activity of skin cells, allowing them to grow as quickly as possible. Thus, if there are scars, scars or other visible damage on the body, after peeling they will begin to heal faster;
This peeling promotes skin regeneration - anti-inflammatory effect. After using acid, the pores narrow, which reduces the amount of fat secreted by the cells;
- stimulating effect. After the procedure, active production of collagen occurs, metabolic processes noticeably improve;
- antimicrobial action. Organic acid components actively fight flora that is unpleasant to the skin, preventing the risk of possible inflammation.
TCA peeling removes germs
Medium TCA peel
Trichloroacetic acid is used in 15% and 30% concentrations, which allows peeling not only superficially, but also to affect the deeper layers of the skin. By weakening or enhancing the effects of acid, TCA peeling is a powerful tool of complex action, which has the following properties:
- cleansing the top layer of the skin;
- regenerating properties;
- peeling affects the skin like a burn, which gives a signal for the intensive production of new cells;
- reduces the production of subcutaneous sebum, which helps reduce the inflammatory process and also leads to narrowing of pores;
- improves blood circulation and metabolic processes in cells, helping to improve collagen production;
- antimicrobial and bactericidal action.
Medium peeling helps to get rid of not only fine wrinkles, but helps reduce deeper ones, and is also effective against fresh stretch marks on the body. Copes with acne scars, age spots and skin rashes.
Indications and contraindications
It is best to use TCA peeling in the following cases:
- the presence of small wrinkles on the face. Typically fine wrinkles are found around the eyes, lips, cheeks and forehead;
- enlarged pores through which sebaceous glands are abundantly secreted;
- the appearance of scars;
- the formation of stretch marks caused by sudden changes in body shape;
- the presence of age-related skin changes.
TCA peeling eliminates many problems
Before resorting to the procedure, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with possible contraindications, as well as be examined by dermatologists and cosmetologists. Thus, TCA peeling cannot be performed if you have:
- viral skin diseases;
- inflammatory processes of the epidermis;
- keloid scars;
- allergic reactions to components;
- malignant tumors;
- diseases of a dermatological nature.
Contraindications should be taken into account
Important ! Also, pregnant and breastfeeding women should not sign up for the procedure.
Who and when should not undergo TCA peeling?
Peeling with trichloroacetic acid has contraindications for:
- Age up to 25 years, however, in the presence of inflammation, acne, spots, it can be used in adolescence.
- Sunny seasons: summer, spring, first two months of autumn.
- Exacerbation of viral diseases: herpes, warts, papillomas.
- Fungal skin infection.
- Pregnancy, lactation period.
- The presence of a huge number of nevi (moles).
- Hypertrichosis (large amount of hair).
- Exacerbation of chronic diseases.
- Hypertension, decompensated diabetes mellitus, epilepsy.
- Recent tan.
- Endocrine disorders.
- Tendency to allergies.
- Chronic skin diseases.
- Keloid scars.
- Colds.
Before the procedure, it is recommended to visit a therapist to conduct a comprehensive examination of the body and clarify existing diseases.
A little about the preparatory period
The first step towards the procedure involves taking the following steps.
- Refusal to use abrasive mechanical means. These products include various sponges, brushes, and tassels. It is recommended to abandon them about a month before visiting a cosmetologist.
- Provides skin protection from sun exposure. It is recommended to do this with the help of special sunscreens, the index of which should not be less than 50.
- Active but gentle use of fruit acids to reduce skin stress during future peeling.
Fruit acids are the right choice - Taking antiviral drugs. This is necessary to avoid the possible formation of herpes.
- Refusal to visit the bathhouse or sauna.
Important! It is also not recommended to pluck your eyebrows before peeling, so as not to further disturb the skin.
Recovery period
After cleaning, redness and swelling appear on the first day. The next day a thin film forms, which becomes dense after a few days. The crust should fall off on its own; under no circumstances should it be peeled off.
At this time, it is recommended to carry out restorative procedures daily for 2 weeks for the greatest peeling effectiveness. This includes the use of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, moisturizers and high protection sunscreens.
To reduce the risk of herpetic rashes, antiviral drugs are prescribed for 3-4 days. To eliminate inflammation, apply local anti-inflammatory ointments.
While the skin is healing, the following is strictly contraindicated:
- Visiting baths, saunas, swimming pools.
- Exposure to the sun, going to the solarium.
- Performing facial procedures without a doctor's recommendation.
- Exercises in the gym.
Over the next 2-3 weeks, new cells are actively formed, the surface of the dermis is restored, and metabolic processes are normalized. During this time, it is important to keep your skin hydrated. Biorevitalization and mesotherapy procedures are suitable for these purposes.
How is the procedure done?
First of all, the cosmetologist treats the facial skin with a lotion specially designed for this purpose. This is necessary in order to get rid of remnants of cosmetics and eliminate sebum. Then the application of the chemical composition begins.
As for sensations, they manifest themselves differently in each patient. For some, a TCA peel may be a painful procedure, while others may not feel anything at all. However, when applying a solution of increased concentration, almost every patient feels a burning sensation and pain. Therefore, it is worth preparing for this in advance.
Everyone perceives the procedure differently
The procedure takes about 20 minutes. Some people may develop small, light spots on their skin. Don't worry, as these areas are just coagulated epidermis.
Important ! This effect is called the “frosting” effect.
Light spots on the skin are normal
You may also notice an immediate reddening of the skin after the procedure is completed. The redness will last about three days, then it will subside. After this, dark brown crusts will begin to form. Cosmetologists strongly recommend not to touch the crust, much less rip it off. Just be patient a little, and within a week the crust will completely disappear from your face. Underneath there will be a new layer of rejuvenated skin that has acquired a pleasant pinkish tint. Already 2 days after the crust disappears, the shade of the epidermis will acquire a normal tone.
At the end of the procedure, the skin turns red
Important ! Situations arise when the patient does not have that much time for a recovery period. Then cosmetologists recommend using more gentle procedures using AHA and BHA acids.
Can I do a TCA peel at home?
According to professional cosmetologists, performing TCA peeling at home is strictly prohibited. There are several reasons for this ban.
Firstly, the procedure is sometimes performed under anesthesia, since it is mainly used by people over forty years of age. Secondly, in the process of using acid, the application of a special neutralizer is required, which cannot be done at home. Thirdly, such procedures may require the patient to remain in the hospital until the skin is completely restored.
The procedure must be performed under anesthesia.
In the case of TCA peeling, regular medical supervision is very important, since at any time it may be necessary to administer painkillers or apply special compounds that can facilitate the recovery period of the skin.
Important ! That is why it is recommended to carry out such a procedure exclusively in a clinical setting.
The doctor must monitor the patient's condition
What does TCA peel guarantee?
Everyone who applies for such a procedure after it is completed will receive such guaranteed changes as:
- alignment of the relief of epithelial covers. The skin will become more elastic, the face will look young;
- smoothing and improving skin tone;
- reduction of inflammation;
- disappearance of keloid scars;
- eliminating rashes on the face;
- reducing the amount of fat secreted;
- narrowing of pores;
- improvement of metabolic processes occurring in skin cells.
Thus, thanks to chemical peeling, the skin is noticeably renewed and becomes much better.
The procedure guarantees changes in appearance and life
Popular questions
I did the procedure, but there was no result. Why?
This happens if a person initially has false ideas about what the skin should look like after the procedure. You need to realize in time that each case under consideration is individual, which means that the result will manifest itself differently for everyone. For some, acne and scars will disappear immediately, for others the procedure will have to be repeated.
I noticed the appearance of white spots on my face. What is this?
This phenomenon is absolutely normal. It occurs if the cosmetologist applied a strong enough concentrated solution to the areas where the scars were located to eliminate them. After about six months, the skin will recover and the white spots will disappear. However, it is worth considering that sometimes the manifestation of such pigments occurs due to the death of cells that produce melatonin. Then the defect will remain for life.
I feel tightness after peeling. Why?
This phenomenon is considered an individual skin reaction to acid exposure. Some patients may indeed experience dry skin, and this is quite normal. To improve the condition of the epidermis, it is recommended to undergo mesotherapy or biorevitalization procedures.
I’m still preparing for the procedure, what sensations may arise?
The sensations manifest differently in each patient, but at low concentrations of acid, patients usually do not feel anything. If we talk about carrying out a procedure with the application of several layers or the use of high concentration acid, painful sensations may occur.
Feelings can vary significantly between two different people.
I would like to know about the disadvantages of such peeling. And why are there opponents among cosmetologists?
Chemical peeling, like any other, is considered a potentially risky procedure. In the case of TCA peeling, cosmetologists are wary of the use of concentrated acid. But it is worth noting that such a remedy in the hands of a professional will not harm the patient in any way, so there is no need to worry. In addition, if you trust an experienced specialist, the procedure will be painless, and the rehabilitation period will be under constant supervision.
To avoid possible risks, it is necessary to undergo an examination in advance by a professional cosmetologist, who will be able to determine the type and condition of facial skin, as well as select the appropriate concentration of the solution.
It is worth visiting a cosmetologist before procedures
What is the rehabilitation process?
Once the procedure is completed, the skin will begin to swell. Also among the rehabilitation symptoms may be dryness, soreness and tightness. After a couple of days, the patient will be able to notice the formation of a crust. To avoid the occurrence of keloid scars, it is better not to rip it off.
It will disappear on its own 7-8 days after a successful session.
Important ! When the crust subsides, renewed skin with a pleasant pinkish tint will come out. After a short amount of time (several days), the color of young skin will become less saturated.
During the first week of rehabilitation, the crust disappears
How to properly care for your skin during rehabilitation?
It is no secret that TCA peeling can be called not only an effective, but at the same time quite a traumatic procedure. Therefore, after such a procedure, you should take into account several recommendations for proper skin restoration.
Important ! When carrying out superficial peeling, special facial skin care is not required, since the acid does not penetrate deep into the layers of the skin, and therefore does not cause much harm.
Superficial peeling does not require skin care after the procedure.
If we are talking about medium peeling, when the acid concentration is 20% or 30%, then we can talk about peeling of the skin and its redness. A similar reaction will pass in a couple of days. However, during this time it is recommended to take some precautions.
- It is recommended to avoid skin contact with water for one or two days. To wash and soak your face, you can use lotions, foams and creams, which will have to be prescribed by the treating cosmetologist.
- Before going outside, your facial skin must be treated with a layer of sunscreen to avoid possible burns.
- Additionally, you can undergo biorevitalization to enhance the effect of peeling.
With medium peeling, it is still worth following some rules
WHAT IT IS
What is a TCA peel?
Composition: synthesis of acetic acid and chlorine.
Main property: more powerful keratolytic than retinoic and glycolic acids (more pronounced exfoliation function).
When TCA acid hits the surface of the face, a signal is sent to the brain through receptors: a burn has occurred. Then the brain gives the command to produce young healthy cells.
Since we are talking about a programmable effect, recovery proceeds evenly, the condition of the cells improves, and the cells begin to perform their functions better.
When the skin is restored after a TCA acid chemical peel, its color, turgor, tone and quality improve.
Properties of trichloroacetic acid
Trichloroacetic acid can destroy the bonds between cells, thereby exfoliating the scales and renewing the cover. As a result, TCA enhances lymph flow and blood supply to cells.
As a bonus, debris is cleared from the sebaceous ducts.
Peeling with trichloroacetic acid refers to techniques that act on the basement membrane: the border between the epidermis and dermis.
Sometimes TCA can penetrate to the papillary layer of the dermis (subcutaneous fat), although the composition was not originally intended for this.
TCA 15% peel (or TCA 20 peel) is used for a lighter burn. It allows you to solve minor problems of young tissues or prepares them for a more concentrated solution.
Some cosmetologists can use 35 and 50% TCA, but in this case there is a risk of complications.
Solutions with high concentrations are applied only pointwise, to benign formations and defects no more than 1 cm wide.
Acid concentrations above 32% are applied with anesthesia.
Indications and contraindications
Indications
The procedure is suitable for patients with the following indications:
- Skin irregularities
- Enlarged pores
- Blackheads (Comedones) Acne in remission
- First wrinkles
- Freckles
- Pigmentation
- Post-acne
- Stretch marks on the body
- Photoaging
- Dull cover color
- Stimulation of regeneration
For patients without any special dermatological problems, TCA facial peeling will help improve the relief and achieve prolonged makeup.
The color and tone will become more even, and the damage from increased temperature or cold will be reduced.
APPLY BUT CHECK
- Under no circumstances should you obtain professional chemical peels through friends and do them at home, not in a salon. By saving money, you can lose on your beauty and health.
- For scars, diamond microdermabrasion is more suitable; for oily skin, enzyme or almond peeling is more suitable.
We recommend: What are the types of HARDWARE FACE PEELING
Contraindications Contraindications to the use of the TCA method:
- Time of year with active sun
- Viral dermatological diseases (warts, herpes, molluscum contagiosum)
- Fungal skin diseases
- Skin parasites
- Tendency to form keloids
- Thyroid diseases
- Pregnancy, GW
- Malignant tumors
- Open wounds
- Taking retinoids
- Acne in active stage
- Diabetes
- Recent surgeries or hair removal
- Epilepsy
- Hives
- Hypertension
- Fresh tan
- Cuperosis
- 4-6 skin phototypes according to Fitzpatrick:
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages
Peeling with trichloroacetic acid is chosen for its advantages over analogues:
- Applicable not only on the face, but also on the back, chest, neck, décolleté, elbows, knees, even on the stomach and buttocks
- Smoothes the relief
- Improves skin quality
- Evens out color
- Has a strong antioxidant effect
- Detoxifies
- Increases protection against external factors
- Deep cleanses
Flaws
- Painful
- Cannot be carried out independently
- Lots of complications
- Long rehabilitation
- May be an uncontrolled burn
- It takes a long time to prepare
For those who do not have the opportunity to come to the salon, you can do other peelings at home, which also thin the upper keratinized layer of the epidermis and stimulate the skin to produce new young cells.
If possible, be sure to carefully choose a salon and study the recommendations, otherwise there may be complications after TCA peeling.
Side effects
- Swelling with a predisposition to allergies (you can start taking antihistamines in advance).
- Persistent redness , like after a sunburn (gradually turns into a crust).
- Feeling of tightness and dryness, moisturize, if it does not go away for a long time, hyaluronic acid injections or mesotherapy are prescribed.
- There may be defects (acne and scars) that disappear after the completion of the entire course or specialized treatment.
- Increased sensitivity to the sun, pigmentation.
- Demarcation line . Areas that have been treated particularly heavily may appear red or uneven on the face.
- Discoloration of the skin due to an imbalance of melanin lasts up to 6 months. or they may remain forever.
Price
OK. 100 euros + 50% of the price for post-care products.
About side effects
After the procedure, the main side effect will be noticeable redness of the skin and swelling. It is also worth preparing for the fact that after a couple of days the skin will begin to peel.
Some patients experienced allergic reactions, the formation of age spots, scars and small scars. This is due to the individual characteristics of a person to the effects of the acid used, as well as the professional skills of a cosmetologist.
Important ! It is worth carefully selecting a specialist to whom you plan to entrust your face.
The occurrence of side effects depends on the individual characteristics of a person.
Also among the possible side effects are the following.
- Infectious complications. This can happen if the patient violates the rules of facial skin hygiene.
- Herpes formation. If the procedure was performed on a patient with a weak immune system, he is likely to experience this side effect.
- Marbling of the skin. This suggests that the chemical composition penetrated quite deeply.
- Exacerbation of acne. Occurs in patients who decide to undergo the procedure when acne is inflamed. If, in addition, a person has fairly oily skin, the effect will not be long in coming.
- The appearance of scars when using a solution of high concentration.
Many side effects may appear
Features of the procedure
Trichloroacetic acid is an analogue of acetic acid, and it is absorbed through the epidermis, providing anti-inflammatory, cauterizing and bactericidal effects. For superficial (softer) peeling, 15 percent acid is used, and for medium peeling – 25-37 percent. Acid with a concentration higher than 37% is not used, as it can cause serious complications.
The penetration of all the beneficial substances of the acid into the skin and the effectiveness of its effect primarily depends on how many layers are applied, whether it will be of a gel or aqueous-alcohol type, and whether the acid will combine with other substances during the procedure. Not least important are the specific preparation before peeling, as well as the presence of mechanical damage and trauma in the treated areas.
This procedure, although cosmetic, is very serious, therefore it belongs to medical cosmetology and is performed exclusively by a cosmetologist.
KK Adapt. 5 paragraph
How often can you peel?
Cosmetologists strongly advise carrying out several similar skin cleansing procedures. This is necessary to achieve the desired effect and secure a high-quality result. In this case, it is best to take a break of one or two weeks between procedures. Thus, the patient will noticeably ease the recovery period of the skin and will not experience severe pain during the next visit to the cosmetologist.
The cosmetologist will decide how many procedures are needed
Of course, with the systematic use of TCA technology, you can get a much better effect. However, sometimes one procedure is enough to significantly improve the condition of your facial skin.
Important ! The procedure can be performed once a year or a year and a half.
Effect
The deeper the TCA peel penetrates, the more noticeable its effect becomes. If we talk about using a 15% acid solution, the result will not be very noticeable. A similar substance will help cope with only some skin problems. A more concentrated solution will show much greater results - it can completely rejuvenate the skin of the face.
The concentration of the solution affects what the result will be
However, you should not choose the type of peeling yourself - it is better to seek help from a cosmetologist. An experienced specialist will help you choose the appropriate concentration and also suggest high-quality products for restoring the skin after the procedure.
As for the main effects that can be achieved thanks to TCA peeling, trichloroacetic acid will help:
- smooth out small wrinkles;
- tighten pores, preventing excessive oil secretion;
- reduce scars;
- eliminate dead cells;
- lighten your complexion and get rid of age spots.
The effect of this therapy is amazing
Important ! Also, after the procedure, a lifting effect will be observed - the skin will become more toned and youthful.
Many experts recommend taking entire TCA peeling courses, which include several procedures. This way you can achieve maximum effect. The main course includes up to 5 procedures, which can be performed once every 4 weeks.
It is better to take the full course of therapy
TCA facial peeling
TCA peels are so popular because they are gentle on the skin while still being highly effective. The main component of the TCA peel is trichloroacetic acid, which is combined with lactic, retinoic, salicylic and citric acid. Depending on the combination of components, you can have a mild or more aggressive effect on the skin.
No special preparation is required before facial peeling; the procedure can be performed immediately. TCA peeling is suitable for wrinkled and aging skin, helps restore it, restore elasticity and tone.
At a young age, the procedure is suitable for problem skin, helps to cure acne, pimples, get rid of posture, and is also effective against age spots. The main areas of peeling treatment are the face, neck and décolleté.
Indications for TCA peeling for the face include:
- small wrinkles formed as a result of active facial expressions;
- deep wrinkles caused by age-related changes;
- reduced elasticity;
- loss of elasticity;
- flabbiness;
- dry skin due to loss of moisture;
- pimples, acne;
- sagging skin;
- wrinkles on the forehead, nasolabial folds, wrinkles around the mouth;
- pigmentation;
- uneven complexion;
- freckles;
- increased oiliness of the skin;
- enlarged pores;
- acne scars.
Most often, this procedure is prescribed for severe rashes and acne marks, since softer peelings are available to reduce pores and reduce sebum production. With TCA peels, the return of elasticity, firmness and reduction of pores are associated effects in eliminating more serious defects.
Is it worth going for the procedure?
The choice depends entirely on the patient. Some may not like the risk of pain during the TCA peel, and others may not be able to afford such a long recovery period for the skin. However, it is worth noting that there are quite a few positive reviews on the Internet indicating the high efficiency of using acid.
If in doubt, it is better to ask a doctor
TCA peeling is mainly recommended for patients whose age has passed the 35 year mark, when skin cell renewal has noticeably slowed down. Such a procedure in this case will have an extremely positive effect.
Important ! In any case, it is recommended to visit a cosmetologist so that he can help determine the need for TCA peeling and prescribe a certain concentration of acid.
Use at home
Experts strongly do not recommend chemical peeling at home, especially using aggressive acids.
In the absence of knowledge in this area, a woman not only risks not achieving results at all, but also risks drying out and even burning her skin.
The money saved after the home procedure will be used to restore the tortured epidermis.
After all, everyone knows that the stingy pays twice, so any competent cosmetologist will advise you not to experiment with your face.
For more information about the TCA medium peel, watch the video.
Reviews
Below are several reviews from those who have already used TCA peeling.
Natalya, Chelyabinsk
“Even when I was a teenager, acne began to actively break out on my face. Over time, the acne went away, but the scars remained after them, which I didn’t really like. I constantly had to cover up skin defects with foundation to give my face an attractive look. Not long ago I was advised to undergo a TCA peel procedure. I want to say that the effect is simply amazing! The scars have disappeared and the condition of the skin has improved.”
Angelina, Sochi
“The TCA peeling procedure gives me a double sensation. On the one hand, the skin has noticeably improved. Indeed, the tone has become lighter, the skin has become softer. However, during the procedure you have to experience quite painful sensations, and the recovery takes quite a long time.”
There are many positive reviews about this procedure
Veronica, Novosibirsk
“Before this, I read several reviews about a similar procedure, and they were all ambiguous. I decided to take a risk, and I want to say that I was simply amazed by the result. Yes, during the peeling there were painful sensations, and during the rehabilitation period I felt tightness and dryness of the skin. However, it’s worth it - the renewed skin looks just great.”
Anastasia, Moscow
“I had my first procedure about three years ago. My skin is quite problematic, and also oily - in general, the case is difficult. The doctor who prescribed the peeling recommended me to first undergo preparatory procedures, which I am very grateful for. Overall, I was satisfied with the effect at the end of the treatment. I’m planning to sign up for a repeat procedure this winter.”
Many are more than satisfied with the result
TCA PEELING based on trichloroacetic acid
What is a TCA peel?
TCA peeling is the application of trichloroacetic acid to the skin to even out the texture and color of the skin. This peeling can be both superficial (light peeling) and medium (brown crusts that disappear within 7-10 days), it all depends on what effect you want to achieve, how many layers to apply, what % of acid, how long to keep the composition on the skin .
Today we’ll talk about TCA PEELING based on trichloroacetic acid. Peeling is very cool! It amazingly evens out the skin, removes scars, makes the skin fresh and evens out wrinkles. After it, the skin color is simply amazing. But this is a peeling whose nuances cannot be ignored. You should know them!
The TCA peeling procedure is designed to go deeper into the middle layers of the skin on the face, smoothing and stimulating the skin to renew itself. Acid, when applied to the skin, is very aggressive and causes pain. The procedure is painful.
Painfulness of the procedure
TCA peeling is very painful, because it is, first of all, an acid. Acid applied to the face is a chemical burn. The burn can be of varying degrees: superficial and median. It can reach the deep layers of the skin.
If you have a very low pain threshold and you perceive any pain as very strong and cannot tolerate it, then you need to think 10 times before deciding to take TCA. This is a short, quick procedure and very little time passes between the first application of the acid and the moment when we neutralize it (3-4 minutes). But you just have to survive these 3-4 minutes, it really hurts! Patients with a high pain threshold tolerate this procedure well. I do not accept patients with a low pain threshold for this procedure.
Rehabilitation after TCA peeling
The TCA procedure has a long recovery time. The middle peel will be quite deep and you must understand that you won’t be able to go to a wedding the next day or take a super selfie on Instagram in a couple of days.
For the first three days after the procedure, you will sit at home with a tightening red-brown film on your face. You will need to do home care and moisturize your skin well so that the rehabilitation process goes as expected and the peeling is as effective as possible. Therefore, do not plan anything for the next few days after peeling; rehabilitation time takes 7-10 days.
Indications for the procedure
TCA peeling is used to solve various problems: scars, post-acne, fine wrinkles and aging skin. But very often women come to this peeling with age spots. Pigment spots can be both an indication for this peeling and a contraindication for it. Why? Because there is different pigmentation. And it should be classified by a cosmetologist (dermatologist).
TCA peeling is indicated:
- Pigmentation occurred during pregnancy
- Pigmentation appeared after 40 years, or from intense exposure to the sun (solarium).
- Pigmentation changes intensity from light to dark and vice versa depending on the season.
TCA peeling is likely to lighten this pigmentation and even out the tone of the face.
TCA peeling is contraindicated:
- If the pigmentation is post-inflammatory
- Appears after rashes or damage to the skin (by hands, aggressive procedures)
This means you have a tendency to post-inflammatory pigmentation and pigmentation due to damage. In this case, TCA pilin will be contraindicated for you, because the burn that we will create with this peeling on the face can provoke reactive pigmentation and it will be very difficult to get rid of it.
Skin condition after TCA peeling
The skin will be more receptive to all serums and all homemade creams. After acid exposure, the skin is renewed, young skin grows and it must be protected from the sun, because due to insufficient natural protection, it can again give you pigmentation. The skin must be soothed with special products. The first time after peeling, the skin will be slightly pinkish and more sensitive than before, until a period of complete healing has passed.
Review of TCA peeling
TCA is a very good peeling and, compared to hardware leveling techniques, it is the most inexpensive and very effective. I really like to use it in my work and combine it with various techniques: biorevitalization, peptides, etc.
It is important to take into account all the points that I told you about. If you pay attention to them, then this peeling can be harmful, like any other procedure that is not done according to the instructions of the attending physician or does not follow the rules!
My patients very often ask: Is it possible to replace one TCA with several superficial peels? It would seem that it is much easier to undergo a light rehabilitation period several times than to sit at home once (7-10 days) with scabs on your face. I would be happy to say that it is possible, but unfortunately not. Going to the dermis once or sanding the surface of the skin 10 times are completely different things. This is a completely different leveling effect and a completely different stimulating effect.
TCA Peeling – Results
TCA peeling has an excellent smoothing effect, but it is important to remember that one TCA peeling procedure is not enough to achieve a good effect of smoothing the skin texture. You need to take a course of peelings, and sometimes several courses. In one season you come 1-4 times, in another season 1-4 times and combine with other procedures that help restore the skin during rest periods between TCA peels. Skin smoothing is a long and tedious process, which will certainly give great results if you are patient.
Author of the article: Yuliana Shiyan
Share this post
What do the experts say?
Irina Dorofeeva, cosmetologist
“The TCA peeling procedure is quite effective, but it is best to take a course of antiviral drugs before the main exposure to acid, which will prevent the possible appearance of herpes. Similar situations happened, and this was mainly due to patients whose immune systems were weak. Also, you should not visit baths and saunas before visiting a cosmetologist.”
Experts also speak highly of the procedure
Michelle Place, plastic surgeon
“You shouldn’t worry if a week after the procedure your facial skin starts to become covered with a film. Over time, this film will come off, allowing you to see the effect of using TCA technologies. It is very important not to touch the crust during this time to avoid the formation of age spots or scars.”
Cost of the procedure
We will indicate the approximate cost of one TCA peeling procedure in different cities of Russia.
| City | Approximate cost of one procedure |
| Moscow | 3300 rub. |
| Saint Petersburg | 2980 rub. |
| Khabarovsk | 3190 rub. |
| Arkhangelsk | 2740 rub. |
| Ryazan | 2900 rub. |
| Yaroslavl | 2850 rub. |
| Kazan | 3100 rub. |
Photos before and after
Photos before and after a course of TCA peeling procedures No. 1
Photos before and after a course of TCA peeling procedures No. 2
Photos before and after a course of TCA peeling procedures No. 3
STEP-BY-STEP PROCEDURE
Preparation for the procedure
Preparation for TCA peeling implies the following rules:
- In 4 weeks you need to give up mechanical influence such as brushing, epilation, etc. Be sure to start using a cream with a UV factor of 50 SPF
- Start using weakly concentrated creams with fruit acids at least 2 weeks in advance
- Carry out 1-2 superficial peels before the middle peel
- If you had herpes less than six months ago, you should start taking antiviral medications 3-4 days before the procedure.
- When there are 1-2 days left before the session , avoid steaming, tanning, thinning eyebrows, removing excess hair in the treatment area, so as not to injure the tissue
- You may need to get tested
We recommend: Gas-liquid peeling: rejuvenation with the elements of air and water
TCA peel procedure protocol
- Makeup remover First, let's clean the treatment area with the gel (milk with lipids is not used, otherwise the effectiveness of the composition will decrease).
- Mix the solution immediately before exfoliation, because acids are slightly volatile and can evaporate. Apply with a brush to the face.
- The cosmetologist asks the patient to fan herself while the TCA peel is in effect. Or the fan turns on. The doctor carefully monitors to what level of cells the chemical peeling has reached. The first layer may be practically unnoticeable, but all subsequent ones are already a little painful.
- Frost effect appears: white frost coating. This means that the solution has penetrated to a certain depth and affects the layer of cells that we want to exfoliate. For example, you need to wait for the frost effect when removing acne scars. On the 3rd-4th day after treatment, fine-plate peeling will appear in this area, similar to light dandruff, which is eliminated with a moisturizer.
- Then the cosmetologist goes over the problem areas a second time , which he wants to influence more intensively. You can increase or decrease the effect on different facial areas to achieve the desired effect. If we treat the T-zone, the impact on the sides of the face will be minimal. At the same time, in areas that are worked more strongly, the patient feels a slight tingling sensation.
- Then a post-peeling soothing mask is applied to the face , which is prohibited from getting wet or washed off until the next morning, since the composition continues to act. It immediately removes all the unpleasant sensations: according to reviews, it’s like lying under the sun on the beach. There will be no chemical burning sensation anymore. The mask moisturizes, relieves inflammation, and has an antiseptic effect.
- The effect continues for another 12-15 hours , which is why you should not wash your face. But then be sure to wash it off, otherwise the acid will seep in too deeply.
According to some patients, after exfoliation the face seems to begin to breathe, there are no particular unpleasant sensations. The face changes color as blood rushes to it:
- Pink complexion - superficial TCA peeling;
- Light white - medium TCA peeling;
- Pronounced white - deep TCA peeling.
We recommend: Is it possible to do PEELING AFTER BOTOX. Doctor's opinion
Rehabilitation after the procedure
Care after TCA peeling lasts about 4 weeks (see Fig. - recovery by day).
During the healing process, bathhouses, saunas, gyms, and solariums are prohibited.
It is recommended to take vitamins, zinc, and immunomodulators.
First stage
Immediately after the TCA peeling procedure, swelling, frost and redness, and tightness of the skin are observed, but you can still appear in public. (Swelling will go away within 1-3 days.)
The next day after peeling, a film forms (from the 4th day it will turn into a crust). The areas with active facial expressions will peel off the fastest, and then the rest.
During the regeneration process, you can constantly moisturize your face, up to 15 times a day, using a spray or foam - for example, Panthenol.
On the 2nd-3rd day, you can start washing your face with mild products, chamomile decoction or boiled water (it is forbidden to mattify or dry out the skin!)
Second stage
Lasts 2-3 weeks: a new framework of collagen and elastin is formed.
During the formation of fibers, additional restorative techniques are indicated at the discretion of the doctor (for example, biorevitalization or mesotherapy).
How often can you do a TCA peel?
It will not be possible to do a repeat session earlier than 4 weeks later: it will worsen the condition of unhealed skin. A maximum of 2 treatments are possible within one season.
