After TCA Peel, Should I Be Moisturizing or Using Aquaphor on my Skin?

asked 3 years ago by lily53 in Camas, WA
Latest answer by Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD
Question viewed 11,956 times

I had a 20% TCA Peel done on 3 days ago. I was instructed not to use any type of moisturizer on it until I was done peeling. This is contrary to everything I've read online. My question is, should I be moisturizing or using Aquaphor on my skin? I was told I could use Aquaphor on any "sore" spots. I feel like I should be putting something on it...should I be?

2 answers to After TCA Peel, Should I Be Moisturizing or Using Aquaphor on my Skin?

Moisturizer after TCA Peel

I respectfully disagree with whoever instructed you not to apply moisturizer until you are done peeling. A 20% TCA peel basically inflicts a superficial wound. Wounds heal faster and better when they are kept moist. I instruct my patients to apply a bland moisturizer (e.g. Aveeno, Cetaphil, Cerave, Eucerin) frequently (3 times daily or more) following a medium-depth chemical peel for faster healing. Aquaphor can be applied to any open sores (I prefer not to have aquaphor applied to the... more

Bryan K. Chen, MD
San Diego Dermatologist

After TCA peel, keep skin moist

Dear Lily: The problem with a moisturizer after a TCA 20% peel is that the skin is often so dry that a moisturizer will not cut it. A little vaseline or aquaphor are exactly what you need. Recognize that these products are not compatible with make up and are comedogenic, meaning they cause pimple or millia. Showering twice a day is also helpful. Once you no longer need the vaseline, then the millia will clear up. Typically with the TCA 20% the skin is so very dry until the old skin... more

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD
Los Angeles Oculoplastic Surgeon

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