Prior to your peel, youâll be asked to stop using prescription retinoids, as well as over-the-counter retinols and any products that contain alpha hydroxy acids, like glycolic acid; beta hydroxy acids, like salicylic acid; or benzoyl peroxide.Â
Youâll also want to avoid exfoliating treatments like shaving, waxing, electrolysis, depilatory creams, and laser hair removal for a week pre-peel. These skin-care products and treatments can compromise the skin and cause a poor reaction to the peel, such as burning or irritation, says Dr. Shelton.Â
When you arrive for your treatment, your skin will be thoroughly cleansed to remove oil, makeup, and dirt. This promotes even penetration of the peel solution and improves its effectiveness.Â
Your provider may also apply emollients, such as Aquaphor or Vaseline, to the corners of the lips and eyelids, to minimize the possibility of having the solution leak into your mouth and eyes.Â
Then theyâll apply the peel with cotton-tip applicators, small makeup pads, or even paintbrushes. âThe applicator used is important, in terms of pressure and texture, since this can affect the depth of the peelâs result,â says Dr. Shelton.Â
Application takes about a minute, and the peel sits on the skin for the amount of time your provider deems appropriate to address your concerns. Your skin may show temporary frosting (when the peel changes from clear to white during treatment) before your provider applies a neutralizer.Â
The peel is uncomfortableâa stinging or burning sensation is commonâbut pain relief usually isnât necessary. A fan may be used to blow cool air onto your skin.Â
The TCA self-neutralizes in five minutes, but your provider may apply a neutralizing solution to fully stop its effects. Afterward, your skin is gently cleansed again.
There are, of course, exceptions to this process. TCA may be combined with other acids, to take the peel to the next level. âWhile a 35% TCA peel is considered a superficial peel, prepping the skin with another type of peel beforehand will take the peel into medium-strength territory,â says Dr. Shelton. This also provides a more uniform and controlled depth of peeling while improving safety.
