Redness, swelling and some crusting for 7-10 days after an aggressive chemical peel is expected, but worsening redness after 5 days is concerning for possible infection e.g. cellulitis. A contact dermatitis or other complication is also possible. I would advise you to follow up... more
Was the 50% TCA Chemical Peel too strong?
I am about to turn 40, and a friend insisted that she could take nearly 10 years off of my face through a 50% TCA Chemical Peel. Everything seemed okay, but after 5 days I noticed that my cheek area (both sides) had developed a bright red rash which is a bit swollen, feverish, and somewhat uncomfortable. Was it too strong for me? When will this subside and what can I do to make it better? I feel stupid and had never done anything like this before and never will again.
3 answers to “Was the 50% TCA Chemical Peel too...”
A: Need more info to answer
I hate to second guess qualified physicians, so my first question would be if your friend is a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon familiar with aggressive peels and how to manage the wound healing period and any complications. 50% TCA is aggressive and seldom used (but not incorrect under... more
A: It will resolve but you need to see your doc and get some meds to clear it up faster
After a 50% TCA I would expect your whole face to be red, swollen and tender (not just your cheeks). If there is pus or oozing then you need a topical prescription antibiotic such as Bactroban 3 times a day. Most redness and swelling at 5 days is to be expected and can easily be treated with prednisone 20 mg... more
Comments
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.
25 posts
9 Dec 2008
When I read the words "forty, friend, and ten years off.." I immediately thought ,"uh Oh!" I often have friends bring friends in to our practice for consultations on anti-aging procedures...most are willing to under go almost anything if improvement is guaranteed, (that assumption should never be made anyway!) Chemical peels come in many forms and can be a great treatment for anti-aging, however, one must always consult a Skin Care Professional before considering any treatment, and be sure that person is qualified to do the treatment. TCA peels at high concentrations can do more harm than good if administered by unqualified medical personnel . If your friend is not a licensed practitioner in the field of Dermatology, I'd be looking for one.
unregistered guest
2 Mar 2009
Based on Experience TCA 50% peel is safe depending on the part of the body its applied .Results varies with patient and what they are trying to accomplish, if your looking for a aggressive peel to rejuvenateor resurfacing the skin then TCA 50% is a medium peel and is ok. What to expect? Swollen, redness peeling and brown crusting,some patient do not exibit these effects, patient is therefore advise to stay away from the sun especially if peel is used in combination with hydroquinone, retinoic, kojic and madelic acid. I find that when used on Fitzpatrick scale of 5 or 6, and depending on the area can give remakable outstanding results. A qualified professional with experience with TCA peel is a must. The professional should have a clear understanding on how the different peels react on skin types, based on (Fitzpatrick scale)
1 post
16 Apr 2009
Based on Experience TCA 50% peel is safe depending on the part of the body its applied .Results varies with patient and what they are trying to accomplish, if your looking for a aggressive peel to rejuvenateor resurfacing the skin then TCA 50% is a medium peel and is ok. What to expect? Swollen, redness peeling and brown crusting,some patient do not exibit these effects, patient is therefore advise to stay away from the sun especially if peel is used in combination with hydroquinone, retinoic, kojic and madelic acid. I find that when used on Fitzpatrick scale of 5 or 6, and depending on the area can give remakable outstanding results. A qualified professional with experience with TCA peel is a must. The professional should have a clear understanding on how the different peels react on skin types, based on (Fitzpatrick scale)