Trichloracetic acid chemical peel is intended to reduce fine wrinkles and skin flaws. Chemical peels use an acid solution to remove the outer layers of dead skin cells to expose new skin. Trichloracetic acid comes in many concentrations; the higher the concentration, the deeper the peel. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a TCA peel requires less recovery time than stronger acids solutions, such as phenol. Several TCA skin peel treatments may be required in order to be effective. Using a chemical peel at home is not difficult, but it does require caution and close monitoring.
Patch Test
Step 1
Put on protective gloves.
Step 2
Apply a small amount of TCA with a brush on the inside of your arm. Leave the solution on for one minute and then apply neutralizing solution with a cotton ball. Wash the test area off with warm water. Neutralizing solution stops the action of the acid and can be purchased separately or as part of a kit.
Step 3
Check the test area periodically over the next 24 hours. Look for signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching or swelling. If signs appear, do not use this treatment.
Treatment
Step 1
Put on protective gloves.
Step 2
Apply the TCA treatment to your face using a brush or the applicator provided with the TCA kit. Start at your chin and work up to your forehead, avoiding the eyes. Apply with an upward motion. Coat the compound onto the skin in an even distribution.
Step 3
Leave the solution on for the time recommended by the manufacturer's instructions. It should only be a few minutes. More time might cause the skin to burn. If the solution begins to burn, remove it immediately.
Step 4
Dip a cloth or cotton ball into the neutralizing solution. Pat the solution onto the affected areas until you have covered all the TCA.
Step 5
Wash your face with a cleanser to remove the TCA and neutralizer.
Step 6
Smooth petroleum jelly over the regions of skin treated with TCA. Continue applying the jelly for two weeks after the peel.
Tips and Warnings
- Apply an alpha hydroxy cream on the day before the treatment to help open your skin's pores. Wear sunscreen after a peel treatment to protect skin from ultraviolet rays.
- Read the documentation included with the TCA kit completely and follow all precautions and warnings noted by the manufacturer. Do not exceed more than a 20 percent concentration of TCA for home use. Check with a doctor before using TCA if taking birth control pills.
Things You'll Need
- Rubber gloves
- TCA kit
- Application brush
- Neutralizing solution
- Cotton balls
- Wash cloth
- Face cleanser
- Dry towel
- Petroleum jelly
