“50% tca peel - is this normal?”
TCA peel: Undecided
Cost: $450
Pain: Uncomfortable
Review of TCA peel:Pain: Uncomfortable
TCA peel satisfaction: Fair
Hi Everyone,
I recently had a 50% TCA peel at the doctors on 9/30/09. I am freaking out. My skin looks like a barnicle, crusty, ozzy, pussy. My face is swollem, almost to the point on non recognition. I just went to the restroom and noticed small blood patches mixed in with the crusts.
The burning sensation was a little more than exspected. It stung quite a bit and I was exhausted from the experience. I haven't ruled on the outcome because I am only 3 days in.
Oct 2, 2009Comments and replies (3)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This review is the subjective opinion of a RealSelf member and not of RealSelf, Inc.
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5 posts
8 Oct 2009
Hi There! First of all, it is normal for the treated area to leak serum, (mostly clear, straw-colored fluid), a few days after the application of the peeling agent, but there shouldn't be any blood unless you haven't kept a good, thick layer of ointment on the treated areas and they are cracking because they're getting dried out. I had a medium depth peel a few years back, was super red, (and yes, very worn out after the ordeal), days 2-3 leaked serum and skin turning brownish, feeling tighter by the day, days 4-5 noticed the skin in dynamic areas (areas with lots of motion) like corners of mouth and nasolabial folds began to flake a bit, days 6-10 more peeling and flaking of the remaining "brown" areas. RESIST the urge to pick and help the peeling skin off - this will only lead to scarring. Be sure to drink PLENTY of water and if you live in a dry climate, consider putting a humidifier in your room. Keep treated areas moist by using the recommended ointment. Hope you have a great result!!
12 posts
12 Oct 2009
Please let us know your final result. Thanks
13 posts
25 Oct 2009
TCA 50% is a moderately deep chemical peel performed by your doctors. It penetrates to about 500 microns in the skin. This is maximum upper level of concentration for this acid. Consult with your physicians on the anticipated healing and care plan. They have selected this by their implied experience with peeling using TCA. Ordinarily we use 35-45% in selected cases for the face. Each practice will have a philosophy, experience, and treatment protocol for peels they perform. We have performed over 5700 peel in 25 years, and work in the center and at the limits of peeling concentrations for specific indications. They will guide you through the process.