Is a 20% to 30% TCA peel effective for removing or reducing vertical lip lines?

I'm a 47-year-old female with fair skin, and I'm wondering if a 20-30% TCA Peel is good for removing those nasty upper lip lines? If yes, how many layers would need to be done?

3 answers to “Is a 20% to 30% TCA peel effective...”

A: Multiple 30-35% TCA peels would probably do the trick

By David Hansen, MD - Beverly Hills Dermatologic surgeon

The more peels you do the smoother the skin. Typically 3 TCA 30-35% chem peels would probably work in most cases. You would do them about 1 month apart . The fractionated CO2 laser or real dermabrasions also would be fine and require a few. The TCA peels run about $350 each. ... more

A: TCA is not aggressive enough

By Mary Lupo, MD - New Orleans Dermatologist

The best option for peri-oral lines is deep resurfacing which even 50% TCA cannot deliver. Fractional CO2 is now the best option, although deeper dermabrasion may help a little. Combining a little Botox so the mouth does not "purse" as much will enhance the effect of CO2 resurfacing. Make sure you... more

A: Deep lines require deep peels

By Robin T.W. Yuan, MD - Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

The effectiveness of any peel is dependent on the degree of wrinkling that is present and the depth of the peeling action. The finer and less deep the lines the more effective a 20% TCA peel. As the lines become coarser, the depth of the peel needs to increase and a 30% TCA might be needed. Very... more

Comments

sschultz
25 posts
27 Oct 2008

TCA peels are effective for overall skin rejuvenation at 20-30% when done in a series along with good home care products. Lip lines are a challenge for even the most experienced practionner. In our practice we may recommend microdermabrasion for collagen stimulation or a small amount of Botox along with a lip filler to plump and soften out the vermillion border. If you are a smoker or frequent tanning beds...make peace with all of that first!

ssanders
20 posts
27 Oct 2008

A 20-30% TCA peel may in fact give you the appearance of fewer lines. Generally this is immediately post treatment and because you are experiencing some swelling. If you want to make a difference to those lines you must treat them more agressively. In my experience the Fraxel RE:Store is a very effective way to eliminate a lot of the lines you are describing. Nothing however will work like an eraser so make sure you set up a realistic expectation of how the area may improve.