A Testimonial from Judy A. , Purdue 3/19/09

TCA Peel - Basic Application

The TCA peel should be applied by experienced peel users only. The solution is applied to the face until a smooth application is achieved. The face may be uncomfortable initially, and mild swelling may occur. Skin will achieve optimal rejuvenation and color restoration approximately at week 3 to week 6. For optimal results, TCA peels should be performed in a series of 2-3 treatments, 3-4 weeks apart. Use the peel subsequently every 60-90 days apart. Some clients may only require a single treatment of TCA to achieve desired results. Others may have to continue undergoing the peel every 60-90 days. In some cases, clients may require a touch up or a second peel. Wait approximately 4-6 weeks before applying another TCA peel or touch up. SEE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS BELOW & INCLUDED WITH YOUR TCA PEEL.

Getting The Best Result From Your Peel

To obtain breakthrough and dramatic results from applying any peel solution it is vital to apply post peel serums and moisturizers and keeping out of the sun - SPF30+ is a must! After peeling has subsided a light exfoliator, such as Glycolic Acid 10% daily exfoliator, can be used to continue the exfoliation and rejuvenation process. These basic techniques can improve peel results dramatically.

TCA Peels

Trichloroacetic acid, or TCA, chemical peels are used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and blemishes on the skin. Stronger TCA solutions are used to treat acne, melanoma, scars, and more severe hyperpigmentation. TCA peels can be medium or deep-depth. For deeper peels, more layers of the solution are applied.

How TCA Peels Work

TCA peels penetrate through the epidermis, or outer layer of skin, to the dermis, or middle layer of skin. TCA peels remove the outer layer of skin, and a portion of the middle layer of skin. They treat unwanted skin conditions by removing damaged skin so that healthy skin can grow in its place.

Trichloroacetic acid, or TCA, is used for both mild and medium-depth peels. For a deeper peel, your dermatologist will simply apply more layers of the chemical to your skin. To treat more severe conditions like hyperpigmentation, acne and scarring, your dermatologist may use a stronger TCA solution. TCA chemical peel solutions range from 10 to 25% trichloroacetic acid.

What to Expect from a TCA Peel

TCA peels are typically a medium-depth peel. Your dermatologist can administer this type of chemical peel on an outpatient basis.
TCA peels take between 30 to 60 minutes to perform, and you might need an oral sedative as well as a local anesthetic during the procedure. Your dermatologist may prepare your skin before the peel by applying Retin-A® cream or AHA cream. TCA peels generally cause more pain and discomfort than mild skin peels, and your dermatologist may prescribe pain medication during your recovery. He may also prescribe an ointment to be used while your skin heals.

You can expect your skin to look very pink for quite some time after a TCA peel. New, healthy skin will begin to grow within the first two weeks after the procedure. Within three to four months your skin should have returned to its normal color and regained its normal texture. In fact, a TCA peel should produce dramatic improvements in skin tone and texture, as well as improving the appearance of wrinkles, blemishes and scars.
The results of a TCA peel can last years. The stronger the TCA solution used for your peel, the longer results will last. You can have TCA peels repeated if results begin to fade. Many people receive TCA peels every three to six months.

TCA Peel Risks, Precautions and Side Effects

After a TCA peel, you will need to avoid direct sunlight, or wear sunblock, at all times until the treated area has completely healed. Even after your skin has healed, wearing sun block at all times can help your results last longer. While the results of TCA peels are typically long-lasting, you may need to have the treatment repeated in order to maintain results.
TCA peel side effects are generally mild. You may experience mild to moderate pain, swelling and inflammation. You may need to wear a bandage on the area for 24 hours after treatment.

Risks associated with TCA chemical peels include noticeable pigmentation changes, especially in those with darker complexions. While TCA peels are generally considered safe for those with darker skin, you should be aware that your skin may turn out lighter or darker than you had imagined.
TCA peels also carry a risk of infection and scarring. You can minimize these risks by following your dermatologist's skin care instructions during the recovery process.Keywords: trichloroacetic acid, TCA, TCA peels, chemical peels, fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, blemishes, skin, acne, melanoma, precancerous growths, scarring, chemical peel, dermatologist, mild skin peels, TCA solution, risks, precautions, side effects

Average Customer Review:

Best intensive peel for keeping lines at bay. September 8, 2009 Reviewer: Paula B. from Virginia   I've used this peel in various strengths since I started noticing some fine lines and I could'nt be happier with the results. Yes, it is not the most pleasant thing you could do to your skin, but the end result is totally worth it. I suggest investing in the 25% solution, then you can dilute it as you see fit. Hope this helps.

I wanted to share my experience ... September 1, 2009 Reviewer: Judy A. from Purdue   I wanted to share my experience with this product.  I've had hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation problems since 2004.  I have spent thousands of dollars on peels at a dermatologist's office and laser to try and get rid of this horrible looking skin.  I felt too embarrassed to even go out in the summer wearing shorts and sleeveless tops.  I just happen to stumble on Natural Skin Shops web site and ordered several of their products, all of which I have been very happy with.  The most exciting part is that I tried the 25 percent TCA peel.  I was a little scared at first to do this myself at home, but I was getting tired of spending thousands of dollars to not get the results I was really hoping for.

Very effective March 25, 2009 Reviewer: Sharon Guizerra from New York   The TCA Peels work so great and have helped me clear my skin tremendously and from hyperpigmentation at a fraction of the cost it if I had seen a dermatologist. Thank you Natural Skin Shop and I look forward to trying other products in the near future!       TCA Peel 6/9/2010 Reviewer: carysma2Verified Buyer from Livingston, Texas   First time using the TCA Peel. It is very effective removing heavy wrinkles. I had very good results with my peel. I plan to continue using this product. I am very pleased with this product.       Great TCA Peel 3/2/2010 Reviewer: Anna from Boca Raton Florida   Great TCA Peel Works well for experience Peel Users. I am a Medical Aesthetician, and This peel Worked Well On My Paitents.       Good but not Great 2/23/2010 Reviewer: NWArk GirlVerified from Fayetteville, AR   Used on face with no noticeable effort. Tried on back of hand several times and it lightened the age spots, but did not eliminate and they keep coming back. Skin did peel nicely and I think there are less wrinkles. I would like a higher percentage available than 25%.       Lost fine lines.... 1/13/2010 Reviewer: Paganess Buyer from Burbank, CA   Took a few tries but the stuff worked & saved me a lot of $ not going to a dermo to get it done.       TCA Amazing, Not as Strong as I expected 1/9/2010 Reviewer: ArkGal Buyer from Ozarks   I was nervous about moving from Glycolics to TCA but after a year of the lower level peels, I wanted to move up. This TCA 25% isn't nearly as scary as imagined. I use it on the back of my hands and it's nearly eliminated the age spots that started appearing.       I have found the peel very effective. 5/12/2010 Reviewer: teresa Buyer from Nashville, TN   I found that to get the best result from the peel it is necessary to wait 2-3 weeks between the peels. There is an initial dryness and peeling that makes it a little hard to deal with but the end results are worth it       I would buy this product again and again 4/15/2010 Reviewer: Simona Buyer from Brussels, Belgium   It's really simple to use, anyone can do this at home instead of spending lots of money at the "professionals".But don't forget to prepare your skin before doing it. The only thing thant isn't great about it is that the week after doing it you're not to pretty, but after this everything is great, your skin is brighter, soother and softer. You can try it with no hesitation.       Made a real difference in my skin! 2/1/2010 Reviewer: Bella Buyer from Franklin Lakes,NJ   I happened to speak to the manager on the phone the first time I called. She was a true expert. She was also professional, patient, and very nice. I spoke to her at length and she never tried to rush me off the phone.I recommended this site due to her before I ever received my products. I immediately received an email confirming my order, it's ship date and arrival date. The items I ordered arrived on time. I am very pleased with the quality of the products and would not hesitate to order from this company again.       great product 1/27/2010 Reviewer: marilyn Buyer from australia   fantastic product certainly lived up to description and expectations       Love the Peel Products 1/11/2010 Reviewer: DJ Buyer from Seattle, WA   I use this about once a month to keep my skin looking fresh, smooth and lessen the apprerance of large pores and fine lines. I apply for 2 minutes and now that I am used to it I experience very little peeling or flakeyness. I am very happy with the product. Though I would caution to test the time you leave it on your skin because it is intense and when I first used it I experienced alot of peeling when only left on the skin for 45 seconds. But after the first 4 applications or so I was ready to leave it on a little longer.

 

Darker skin types (particularly African American) should proceed with caution due to an increased risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

TCA Peel - Application instruction

TCA - Trichloroacetic Acid peels are most useful for people with surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes, pigmentation problems, and for over-all improvement of skin texture and tone.

WARNING: TCA Peels are for external use only. Do not apply to red, irritated or peeling skin. Avoid eye area. Avoid direct sunlight and apply sun protection. Discontinue use if excessive redness or irritation occur.Avoid using Retin-A (Tretinoin) 1 week prior to peel

TCA PEELS ARE RECOMMENDED FOR EXPERIENCED DEEP PEEL USERS ONLY!

What to Do Before The Peel

At least three to four weeks before the peel, client should stop using exfoliating sponges or buff pads. All forms of hair removal should be discontinued at least three to four weeks before the peel. Client should avoid shaving the day of the peel.

Each night before client goes to bed, starting at least two weeks before the peel, client needs to begin applying a mild AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) Glycolic or Lactic Exfoliator in strength of either 5% or 10% to the entire face and to any other areas that will be treated. This conditions the skin and begins the exfoliation process. It enhances the TCA peel treatment, resulting in a more even peel.

Applying the TCA Peel Solution

To apply the peel, moisten a gauze pad with 1-2 ml. of peel solution. Wipe the skin with the moistened gauze pad so that one thin coat of peel solution is applied to the entire face, neck or area to be treated -- avoid eyes and eye area. Greater pressure and repeated rubbing increase peel depth avoid excessive pressure and rubbing. You may use a fan or cold water gauze compresses to cool skin if sensation is uncomfortable.

For initial application, leave on for not more than 30 seconds Observe the reaction and note the results. If necessary, you can adjust the peel application time slightly more on the next peel to gently reach the desired peel depth results.

Following a peel

Immediately after a peel, the skin may appear red or irritated, and may feel tight and sensitive. The skin will be photo-sensitive (light sensitive) and will need sun protection like Peel RX Anti-Wrinkle SPF30+. Apply sunblock and avoid direct sunlight. These are all normal reactions and Squalane oil and Hyaluronic Moisturizer may be used as often and needed to soothe the skin. 1-10 days following the peel, the skin may flake and even peel off, looking as if it has a mild sunburn. Do not pull shedding skin! Allow skin to flake off gently and naturally. Continue use of squalane oil and hyaluronic acid. Apply sunblock and avoid direct sunlight.

Post Treatment Care

For 7-12 days after the peel, clean the skin with warm water using a mild liquid cleanser - Green Tea Cleanser is ideal. Use fingertips (not a wash cloth) since the skin is very sensitive at this time. Avoid the use of abrasive or exfoliating sponges. After cleansing, pat dry with a clean towel, and then apply squalane oil to keep the exfoliating skin soft and the new skin protect. Avoid sun exposure-this includes tanning beds. Sunlight on the skin after a peel can cause brown discoloration of the new skin. A sunscreen of SPF 25 or higher should be applied every morning before going outdoors - Peel RX Anti-Wrinkle SPF30+ is recommended. After the peel procedure, client should not have hair removed by any technique for a minimum of 1 month. Make-up application can be resumed 5-7 days after the peel, providing there is no presence of redness, irritation, tenderness or crusting of the skin.

The next peel can be applied after two weeks, provided there is no remaining redness or irritation. Successive peels provide the best results and a series of at least 6 peels are recommended for optimal results. Precautions : If any of the following contraindications are present, it is strongly recommended that a doctor be consulted before peeling, as certain precautions may need to be taken, and/or peel may not be suitable in some situations:

Peel Contraindications: