TCA chemical peel safe for under eye use?

I would like to do something to get rid of fine lines under my eyes. I have done an at-home 20% TCA peel on my entire face before, but I avoided the eye area. I also use Retin-A micro 0.1% gel, and I tried using this on my under eyes but it seemed to make the wrinkles 100 times worse. It also seems to have made my under eye skin thinner and take on a hollow appearance. I was thinking about doing an 8% TCA peel on my under eyes, or possibly my whole face so that it looks even. My concern is that the peel will thin the skin even more and they will look more hollow. Is it safe to use TCA Peel on this area?

Sort: Date | Helpful
6 answers to “TCA chemical peel safe for under eye...”

A: TCA for lower lids is effective, but have your doctor do it

David Shafer, MD
By David Shafer, MD - Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Loooreee, TCA peels are very effective for the lower lids. However, if you are considering anything more than the concentrations that you have already tried at home, then you should have your doctor do it. We commonly do 25% and 35% lower lid TCA peels in the office and have great results. It takes about a... more

A: TCA peel not a do-it-yourself procedure but safe under eyes if done by a professional

Richard Baxter, MD
By Richard Baxter, MD - Seattle Plastic Surgeon

I am really surprised to hear that you were able to obtain a 20% TCA solution and told to use it yourself. There is a risk of scarring and other problems if it is not done right, and if you get too close to the eyes and get some in it could cause serious vision problems friom burning the cornea. This is... more

A: Don't do TCA Chemical peel yourself; very dangerous

E. Anthony Musarra II, MD
By E. Anthony Musarra II, MD - Atlanta Plastic Surgeon

The lower eyelid is a very weak structure.  Too much chemical peel and your eyelid will droop (very difficult to correct).  Too little and nothing happens. This is something for a professional, not a home remedy. There are certain chemical peels or laser treatments that can help this problem. The... more

A: TCA for lower eyelids

Otto Joseph Placik, MD
By Otto Joseph Placik, MD - Chicago Plastic Surgeon

I have used TCA for the lower eyelids with excellent results but it sounds as if this may be too aggressive for you given the thin skin you describe. Retin-A may actually thicken the skin. I think your problem is twofold. Gel is absorbed but it is incredibly drying. You may want to consider a cream preparation... more

A: TCA Chemical Peel for Eyelid Skin

Daniel Reichner, MD
By Daniel Reichner, MD - Orange County Plastic Surgeon

Loooreee I would recommend that you consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon before attempting a 8% TCA peel on your under eyelid skin. This skin is much thinner than  in the face and cheek and care must be taken to avoid going too deep or accidentally getting the TCA in your eyes.  I also... more

A: Low concentration TCA peel

Hisham Seify, MD, PhD
By Hisham Seify, MD, PhD - Orange County Plastic Surgeon

The skin of the upper and lower lid is much thinner than the rest of the face. If a TCA is to be used, a low concentration must be used and very few times only.

Post your question
Email to friend
Permalink

TCA peel before & after photos

TCA Chemical Peel with 35% TCA
View all 12 photos

TCA peel doctor answers

Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.