A chemical peel is a dermatological treatment that involves applying chemicals to the skin to burn or peel the top layer of skin. When these layers of skin are removed, new skin is revealed. Chemicals used in the peel may vary--one example is trichloracetic acid. This application is known as a medium depth peel.
Significance
Chemical peels often are referred to in terms of how deeply the peel penetrates. A trichloracetic acid peel is considered a medium peel--more than an alpha hydroxy acid peel, but less than a phenol peel, which is the deepest peel, according to DocShop.com. Trichloracetic acid penetrates the skin and removes more than the outer layer of skin. This means the peel is able to provide more dramatic results than a milder peel.
Effects
When a trichloracetic acid peel is applied to the skin, the peel treats fine wrinkles, such as those around the mouth or eyes, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This peel can treat acne blemishes also by encouraging exfoliation and removing oil and dead skin cells from the pores. This peel type also can treat hyperpigmentation--areas of skin that become darkened due to age or sun exposure. Treating these areas can help them to better blend with the surrounding skin.
Time Frame
Trichloracetic acid peels are applied to the skin for a period of time between 15 and 30 minutes, according to Dr. Brian Zelickson, a dermatologist writing for The Patient's Guide. Some dermatologists or aestheticians recommend multiple TCA peels for the process to be effective. Because this peel takes more recovery time than an alpha hydroxy acid peel, TCA peels should be applied between two and three months apart.
Side Effects
A TCA peel is associated with a few side effects and may take skin several days to a week to recover, according to Dr. Zelickson. Redness, irritation and even swelling are common effects that appear initially after application. As the skin sheds its top layers, the skin may turn ashen and dark. The skin begins to peel, which is a sign that the peel is working.
Considerations
Because a TCA peel reveals layers of fresh skin, this may make you more susceptible to sunburn, states Dr. Zelickson. You should apply a sunscreen with a sun protection factor--SPF--of 15 or more for several weeks after your chemical peel to prevent sunburn.
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