30% TCA Peel. Will it cause a scar? (Photo)

Question

I have fair skin, and I did a 30% TCA peel to get rid of my freckles. When I put it on my face immediately turned white and I tried to wash it off about 1 1/2 minutes later. The white stayed for about 20 minutes, then it went away. I put Neosporin, vas line, avenno lotion, and some tea tree oil.The next morning and there was a red/ light brown spot of where I put the peel on, also a rough texture. It is has been less than 35 hours and the spots are still there, will it be a scar?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

First off, you should only be going to a board certified dermatologist for chemical peels.  Secondly, the spots you are trying to remove look like moles and cannot be removed with TCA, they are too deep to be affected by the chemical even with strong % and with multiple dosages.  Lastly, the white that you saw was called a "frost" and that is normal for TCA.  It disappears after about 30-45 mins and then over the next week the skin peels off because the body sheds it to allow for new skin to grow in.  Basically, you created a wound and it will take 7-10 days to fully heal.  I suggest going to a dermatologist for wound care and then never doing something like this to yourself at home again.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

When are you all going to stop self treating or shall I call it self injury???? Now best to see in person a term for correct therapy... .

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

OK, to answer your question directly without the side lines of 'what the hell are you doing with a 30% TCA at home?', hopefully you will not scar. TCA at 30% is strong. Multicoat a few times and your face will definitely scar. I have to fix up several home jobs every year. If it went white, the peel has ended and it is self neutralising. At 35 hours, it is impossible to judge if it will scar or not. The best action is to see a dermatologist early, avoid tea tree oil and use simple vaseline. If need be, Dermatologists can use PDL  V Beam or dilute steroids if you exhibit early lumpy scarring. Your pigmentation should settle with time. All the best,Dr Davin Lim Laser Dermatologist Brisbane, Australia.

30% TCA Peel. Will it cause a scar? (Photo)

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30% TCA Peel. Will it cause a scar? (Photo)

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.