TCA Peel treatment information
A chemical peel is most commonly performed for cosmetic reasons, to enhance appearance and self-confidence. Chemical peel therapy may be performed in conjunction with other treatments. However a chemical peel is not a substitute for a facelift, and does not prevent or slow the ageing process.Chemical peeling uses a chemical solution in order to improve the skin’s appearance. It can reduce or eliminate fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth, correct uneven skin pigmentation, treat acne and soften the appearance scars caused by acne. The procedure can also reduce the appearance of wrinkles caused by dun damage as well as skin blemishes common with age and heredity. Chemical peels can be performed on the face, hands and other body areas.
What conditions can improve with treatment?Age and liver spots (Lentigines) usually found on the face, hands, back and feet. They are age-related and photoageing related, and have nothing to do with the liver. While they are unsightly, they are not usually dangerous. Solar keratosis and Hyperpigmented areas due to hormonal changes and photo damage.
What is TCA?Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) can be successful in the effective treatment of:
- • Reduction of smooth fine surface wrinkles
- • Reduction of superficial blemishes
- • Correction of pigment problems
- • Reduction of Acne / Acne scarring
Skin preparation may be required on darker skin tones and hyperpigmented areas. This involves using a bleach and blend cream two weeks prior to TCA Peels. People with active Acne also require skin preparation with the purifying cream two weeks prior to TCA Peels.
How is treatment administered?The procedure involves a chemical solution that is applied to the skin. The solution causes the layer of skin to separate and peel off. The new regenerated skin underneath is usually smoother, less wrinkled and more even in both tone and colour than the old skin.
How long will treatment take?Typically the skin is first thoroughly cleansed. Then the practitioner will carefully apply the TCA solution. You may feel a slight stinging sensation as the peel solution is applied, but the feeling will quickly pass.
A full face TCA peel usually takes no more than 15 minutes. Each course duration is four weeks with one peel each week. Two or more courses of TCA peels may be needed to obtain the desired result, and may be spaced out over several months.
How can I find out if I am a candidate for treatment?If you would like to learn more about available cosmetic options, and find out if TCA peel treatment might work for you, please call and arrange an appointment for a consultation with the practitioner.
Are there any medical exclusions?Pregnant or breast feeding women should wait to be treated. If you have a history of cold sores, you should inform the practitioner prior to the procedure. You may be better suited to an alternative treatment or product. The practitioner will review your medical history with you during your initial consultation prior to administering any treatment.
During your initial consultation it is important that you discuss your expectations with the treatment practitioner. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions or express any concerns that you may have. You will be able to ask any treatment related questions and the practitioner will explain the planned procedure in detail, including the risks and benefits, the recovery period, and the costs.
Possible side effectsAll products have a potential for allergic reactions. It is important that the client informs the practitioner of any allergies that they may have. Transient reactions may include redness to the skin, itchiness, dryness and in some cases swelling.
It is common for most patients to experience transient hyperpigmentation. This will settle during the course of treatments and with the use of the appropriate treatment creams and sun protection.
Although very rare, there may be in some cases a risk of blistering.