Correcting Scars from a TCA Peel

Greetings Angela, I would certainly echo the sentiments of Drs. Shelton and Sorokin. Right now, time is your best friend. As Dr. Shelton pointed out if your problems are caused by pigment irregularities, which do occur after chemical peels, they may be treated with topical medications or other lasers. I would highly suggest visiting a dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or facial plastic surgeon who performs TCA peels to determine if some additional treatment is necessary. Often these rather... more

I certainly agree with Dr. Shelton but would just add that TIME fixes many of these problems. If you are early after your peel you may very well do best by just waiting and giving your skin a good year to heal and recover before doing ANY other treatments. Be sure that you are on a supervised skin care program including quality moisturizing as well as daily sunscreen protection during this process. Good luck!

Usually scars are related to color or shape. Color may be treated by lasers and special dressings, and creams. Shape may be treated by other resurfacing techniques, but if a complication occurred after a chemical peel, then complications may occur after any other treatment and this must be considered prior to trying a new treatment.

TCA peeling offers amazing results, but should be performed by an experienced physician to limit adverse effects such as scarring and dyspigmentation.  I have had good luck using the fractionated CO2 laser on the face and neck for the scarring and dyspigmentation associated with TCA peeling.  I like the SmartXide DOT laser, but have had good luck with the Active FX and Candela Quadralase laser as well.  A dermatologist with training in laser or cosmetic procedures would be... more

From what I have read, I cannot give you credible advice specifically. What I can tell you is that time is the critical factor here. How long ago was the peel? Typically these red areas fade over time, and you should be careful to be patient. You shoud also work with you doctor to minimize the need for further corrective treatments. Some of the things that can help include skin bleachers, steroids, scar fade creams like Mederma or Post Balm, and even some other modalities like... more

TCA is a very good tool for facial tightening. However, the medical concentrations (15-35%or more) need be done with physician supervision (it could depends on your state rules). I would recommend that you have a consult with a plastic surgeon or a dermatologist that can tell you if you are a good candidate for this procedure. Side effect could include hyper or hypo pigmentation as well as scarring. My advice would be to use an over the counter skin product with lesser concentration until... more