Certified Trichloroacetic (TCA) Acid Peels for At-Home Skin Transformation
Free Acid Value (FAV) options: 7%, 13%, 20%, or 30%. Understanding FAV is crucial for safe and effective peeling.
Achieve Dramatic Skin Rejuvenation with TCA Peels
TCA peels are the gold standard in chemical exfoliation, offering a time-tested solution for various skin concerns. These “cool-action” peels (7%, 13%, and 20%) have an unbuffered pH of 1.3, ensuring predictable and effective results. Choose the right TCA peel percentage for your skin type and experience level:
- Level 1 TCA 7% (1.3 pH): Ideal for sensitive skin, including the delicate eye area.
- Level 2 TCA 13% (1.3 pH): Suitable for beginners seeking more noticeable exfoliation than hydroxy acids. This is often the best choice for ethnic skin tones.
- Level 3 TCA 20% (1.3 pH): Recommended for experienced users who have tolerated multiple layers of 13% TCA and desire more intensive peeling. Proceed with caution, gradually increasing layers. This is the maximum strength recommended for darker skin tones on the body with prior melanin inhibitor use.
- Level 4 TCA 30% (1.3 pH): Caution: For experienced users only. Intended for dilution, CROSS technique (for acne scars), or body use. Not recommended for facial peels or darker skin tones without dilution.
TCA peels initiate skin renewal by removing damaged cells, paving the way for fresh, healthy skin.
Understanding TCA Peel Benefits: A Comprehensive Overview
TCA peels offer a versatile approach to skin rejuvenation, addressing a wide range of concerns:
- Wrinkles and Fine Lines
- Uneven Skin Tone and Texture
- Scarring, including Acne Scars
- Age Spots and Hyperpigmentation (Melasma and freckles may respond better to Jessner peels)
While all skin types can benefit from TCA peels, individuals with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick 4-6) require pre-treatment with a melanin inhibitor for at least four weeks to minimize the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
Essential for Fitzpatrick 4-6: Pre-treat with a melanin inhibitor like hydroquinone or alpha arbutin for four weeks before your peel. This significantly reduces the risk of PIH.
Safe and Effective At-Home TCA Peeling: A Step-by-Step Guide
Achieve optimal results with our detailed TCA peel instructions:
- Cleanse: Thoroughly cleanse the treatment area with a deep cleanser.
- Prepare: Apply a skin prep solution (like Prep B or 90% alcohol).
- Apply: Apply the first layer of TCA peel solution with a gauze pad, avoiding over-saturation.
- Wait: Allow 5 minutes between layers for the acid to self-neutralize.
- Layer (Optional): Apply additional layers as needed, waiting 5 minutes between each. Stop if frosting (a white haze) appears.
- Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with cold water.
- Post-Peel Care: Apply a moisturizer and follow a recommended post-peel care regimen.
TCA Peel Recovery Time and Expectations
TCA peel recovery typically takes around one week. Expect tightness, dryness, and potential darkening of the skin initially. Flaking will begin around days 3-4, starting in areas with more movement (mouth, nose). Keep skin moisturized to minimize discomfort and promote healthy healing.
Potential TCA Peel Side Effects
While generally safe, TCA peels can have potential side effects:
- PIH: This is more common in darker skin tones and can be minimized with pre-treatment.
- Scarring: Rare, but avoid peels if you have a history of keloid scarring.
- Redness: Prolonged redness is uncommon with lower TCA percentages.
- Infection: TCA itself doesn’t cause infection, but it can trigger herpes simplex outbreaks. Consult a doctor for antiviral medication if needed.
TCA Peels and Collagen Production
TCA peels stimulate collagen production, leading to long-term skin improvements. Wound healing initiates collagen deposition, followed by dermal remodeling that can last for months.
TCA Peels for Acne Scars: The TCA CROSS Method
The TCA CROSS method combines needling and TCA acid to target individual acne scars. A high concentration TCA solution (20% or 30%) is precisely applied to the scar tissue, promoting collagen remodeling and reducing the appearance of depressed scars.
TCA Peels for Body Rejuvenation
TCA peels can also be used on the body to address concerns like uneven skin tone, texture, and aging. Higher TCA percentages (e.g., 30%) are often used on the body due to thicker skin.
Ingredients
TCA 7, 13, 20: Purified Water, SD Alcohol 40, Trichloroacetic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Mandelic Acid, Lactic Acid, Sodium Lactate, Glycine, Fructose, Urea, Niacinamide, Inositol, Sodium Benzoate, Benzyl Alcohol, Menthol Crystals
TCA 30: Purified Water, Trichloroacetic acid, Propylene Glycol, Mandelic Acid, Lactic Acid, Sodium Lactate, Glycine, Fructose, Urea, Niacinamide, Inositol, Sodium Benzoate, Benzyl Alcohol. pH 1.2 – 1.4.
Prep B Solution: SD Alcohol 90%, Phenol 1%, Water.
Luminosity Serum: Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethiconol, Ethylhexyl Cocoate, Tocopherol, Caprylic / Capric Triglyceride, Retinol, BHT, Dimethylmethoxy Chromanol. pH 5
*California residents: This product can expose you to TCA (trichloroacetic acid).
