TCA Chemical Peel: Exploration of Efficacy, Safety, Price, Outcomes, and Related Factors
A TCA peel, a type of chemical peel used for cosmetic purposes, can help minimize blemishes, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, even skin color, help with removal of precancerous growths, soften acne scars, and help prevent and control acne [1]. These peels are medium-depth, removing the top layer of skin and a small amount of the underlying layer [2].
The procedure, typically performed by dermatologists, physicians, physician assistants, and nurses, takes 10-15 minutes [3]. Before the peel, a person may be advised to use topical tretinoin to prepare the skin, and a pre-peel routine may be recommended for 1-2 weeks prior [4].
TCA peels are available in medium to high concentrations. Medium concentration peels, around 13%, are typically recommended for beginner peelers and induce moderate flaking and peeling [5]. They are considered safer for a wider range of skin tones, including some ethnic skin types [5].
High concentration TCA peels, 20% and above, are intended for more experienced users or specific conditions, and require extreme caution [5]. The 20% peel is considered the maximum strength for darker skin tones but requires melanin inhibitor preparation [6]. The 30% TCA peel is generally not recommended for darker skin tones and is advised for body or controlled use only [6].
High concentration TCA peels produce more dramatic and longer-lasting skin changes but come with substantially greater risks and side effects, especially if not used properly or on unsuitable skin types [1][2][4]. These risks include redness, burning sensation, more intense peeling, extended downtime, enhanced photosensitivity, and a higher chance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation [6][7][4]. Deep peels from higher concentrations can cause an actual burn wound on the skin, which requires more healing time and carries a risk of scarring or infection [4].
If a person plans to have a deep TCA peel, they should arrange to have someone drive them home and help with daily activities for 1-2 days following the procedure [8]. The removal of the peel and application of cool compresses or other treatments help the skin recover [2]. The recovery time for a TCA peel can vary, with medium concentrations requiring 7-14 days and higher concentrations requiring 14-21 days [9].
It's essential to consult with a practitioner to determine the best type of peel for each individual. A person should follow all instructions from the practitioner to avoid more serious side effects [10]. The average cost of a chemical peel in 2020 was about $519 [11].
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6544559/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6544559/ [3] https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/tca-peel-overview [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6544559/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6544559/ [6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6544559/ [7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6544559/ [8] https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/tca-peel-overview [9] https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/tca-peel-overview [10] https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/tca-peel-overview [11] https://www.verywellhealth.com/chemical-peel-cost-2223771
- In the realm of predictive science, higher concentration TCA peels might potentially increase the risk of skin disorders, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, especially in individuals with darker skin tones.
- To ensure the health and wellness of patients undergoing TCA peels, it's crucial to consider the impact of these procedures on conditions like Alzheimer's disease and depression, as prolonged healing periods and increased photosensitivity might negatively affect cognitive function or emotional state.
- As part of a comprehensive skin-care regimen focused on prevention and control, TCA peels could be incorporated to help predict and mitigate the onset of skin aging-related conditions like wrinkles or precancerous growths, enhancing overall skin health.
