:: TCA Peels :: Lisa Topham, R.N. 203-831-8029

Skin on the belly and skin on the face can appear to be two completely different skins. This is because the face is exposed to the elements, including the sun.

As a result, an inflammatory response at the cellular level along with the breakdown of elastin and collagen results in the production of wrinkles, brown spots and premature aging of the skin.

In human skin there are three basic layers: epidermal, dermal and sub-cutaneous. During the aging process skin may become damaged, causing both the top epidermal layer and the dermal layer to thin.

There are several classifications of peels—superficial, medium and deep—each specific to the degree of skin damage, with each progressive level requiring more recovery time. Peels will repair photo-damage, acne, hyper-pigmentation, fine lines and enlarged pores. They also stimulate the production of collagen, and are most commonly performed on the face, decollate and the backs of hands.

Superficial peels penetrate the epidermis to the upper papillary dermis and may involve the use of microdermabrasion—a gentle, mechanical exfoliation of the outer layers of skin that produce an immediate polished smoothness. Besides the benefits of reducing skin damage, it also combats fine lines and enlarged pores quickly and with no down time.

Trichloraecetic Acid (TCA) also produces favorable results in most patients and can be used in varying degrees of intensity. Patients may experience a burning discomfort for approximately two minutes while the chemical application does its work to repair photo-damage, acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and enlarged pores.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) are today’s most recognizable and commonly used acid products and may be used in varying intensities and in conjunction with TCA to repair photo-damage, acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and enlarged pores.

Medium peels penetrate the upper reticular dermis and are effective for reducing moderate sun damage, scars and other skin conditions, producing greater collagen production over several months.

Deep peels are reserved for severe skin damage and carry a greater risk of side effects. These complications have made deep peels less attractive to skincare specialists, who often recommend lasers as an alternative treatment.

Lisa will determine a patient’s skin type, degree of damage and expectations to determine which peel is most appropriate.

Prices vary.