TCA-Peel (Chemical Peel)

What is a chemical peel?

With the aid of chemical solution, chemical peel is designed to smooth and enhance the texture of the facial skin, by ridding it of damaged outer layers. It is beneficial for those with wrinkles, blemishes and uneven pigmentation. Chemical peel may also be used to eliminate pre-cancerous skin growths and treat acne. The formula for each peel is adjusted to suit each patient’s needs.

What types of chemical peel are available?

YOUnique Medical Spa offers:

• Alphahydroxy acid (glycolic, lactic or fruit acid) peel
• Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel
• Phenol peel

Alphahydroxy acid peels produce light peels. These types of peels are a suitable treatment option for providing brighter-looking, smoother skin if you do not have time to recover from a TCA or phenol peel. AHA peels can be utilized to treat acne, dry areas, subtle wrinkles and uneven pigmentation.

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA), a medium-depth peel, is typically used to treat problems with pigmentation, subtle surface wrinkles and shallow blemishes. Compared to a phenol peel, results are generally less dramatic and do not last as long. Recovery time is also usually shorter. More than one peel may be necessary to obtain optimal results.

Phenol produces a deep chemical peel. It is typically applied to the face to treat pre-cancerous growths, rough facial winkles and areas of skin that or blotchy or damaged as a result of exposure to the sun. In some cases phenol may cause the skin to lighten. Uneven pigment changes may also occur. The color of your skin may be a deciding factor in determining whether or not a phenol peel is a suitable treatment option for your skin condition.

Are there any side effects?

When performed by a skilled, knowledgeable plastic surgeon, chemical peel procedures are generally safe; however, some risks, including infection and scarring may occur.

Patients may experience redness, irritation, stinging and crusting after an AHA peel. However, these side effects will diminish as the treated area adjusts to the peel.

TCA peels may cause skin discoloration.

Prior to receiving a phenol peel, please inform Dr. Youssef if you have a history of heart disease or if you know of any heart problems.

What precautions should I take following treatment?

Following a TCA peel, you should avoid exposure to the sun for several months, to protect the newly developed layers of skin. After a phenol peel, your new skin will frequently lose the capability to produce pigment. As a result, you will always have to protect the treated area from the sun.

1227 Lincoln Blvd., Suite #201
Santa Monica, CA 90401
T 310.434.0044
F 310.434.0099
Open 10-7 Monday to Friday
Corner Wilshire & Lincoln

2007© All Rights Reserved
Privacy Policy
Web Design By: TeleVox

HOME