TCA Peel

Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) is a medical peeling agent that penetrates deeper than AHAs or BHAs, reaching the mid-dermis depending on concentration. Light TCA (10–15%) addresses surface concerns. Medium TCA (20–35%) reaches deeper — treating pigmentation, acne scars, and wrinkles. Deep TCA (30–35% blended with other agents) delivers transformative change with more significant downtime.

Vitamin C and glycolic peels work on the epidermis with minimal downtime and cumulative results. TCA reaches the papillary-to-reticular dermis in a single session, producing more dramatic change in pigmentation, texture, and wrinkles — but with significant visible peeling for 5–10 days.

Day 1: skin feels tight, looks pink/bronzed. Days 2–3: visible darkening of pigmented areas, skin tightens further. Days 4–6: sheets of skin peel away — do not pick. Day 7–10: fresh, bright skin emerges with ongoing mild pinkness. Plan 5–7 days of minimal social exposure.

A course of 3–4 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart for most concerns. Deeper scarring or stubborn pigmentation may need 6. We start conservatively and build concentration across the course.

TCA must be used cautiously on Fitzpatrick IV–VI because of rebound hyperpigmentation risk. We prime with tyrosinase inhibitors (hydroquinone, kojic acid, arbutin) for 2–4 weeks before and use conservative concentrations. For some Fitzpatrick V–VI clients, we'll recommend non-ablative RF resurfacing or Cosmelan as safer alternatives.

Yes — TCA is one of the effective treatments for melasma when paired with strict priming, sun protection, and topical maintenance. Be aware: melasma is chronic and hormonally driven, so ongoing management is needed. Cosmelan is our preferred flagship for melasma.