I have some acne scarring from boils in the past that have left indents, is a 20% TCA peel right for me? (Photo)

Question

I want to do an at home tca 20% peel. I want to know if I can do a section of my face at a time? Since it is so painful. I wanted to start with a 20% since I have a lot of scarring...I am nervous about doing this but I am doing my homework and I will have all the necessary products needed for aftercare.. I want to know if I can do sections of my face at a time. Also do you think a 20% tca peel is the right choice for me? Thanks so much!

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

When it comes to scars from acne or otherwise I typically require a personalized consultation.  We have so reliable and safe options for facial (and body) scars including TCA and other chemical peels as well as lasers and microneedling.  Whether or not a 20% TCA is safe for a patient to do at home is questionable.  My suggestion would be to have a consultation with a licensed or certified practioner from whom you have gotten a referral for. At our practice we customize our consultations to meet the unique needs of our individual patients and have strict safety guidelines and safety protocols.Hope this helps. Good luck.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Anna Avaliani, MD · Answer

Hi Mrs. Torres and thank you for your photos.  TCA peels are great for variety of skin issues and may be helpful with mild acne scarring but based on your photo, your scars are slightly deeper. If you were my patient, I would recommend the latest gold standard treatment for acne scars called PicoSure Scar eraser, which gives you no downtime, is virtually painless and gives you an over all skin rejuvenation at the same time treating your facial scars and tightening the skin. It may even be combined with micro needling . Please have an expert consultation in your area, for the best options. Best, Dr.Avaliani

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question mrs.torres.
Chemical peels are used to enhance the appearance of the face. TCA is a prescription-strength product that should be applied by a licensed medical professional. For my patients with acne scars I find that fractional CO2 lasers work best. Please consult with
a doctor for specific recommendations.  Good luck!

I have some acne scarring from boils in the past that have left indents, is a 20% TCA peel right for me? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Treating acne scars

Answer: Treating acne scars

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Everything you need to know about TCA Peel

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

I have some acne scarring from boils in the past that have left indents, is a 20% TCA peel right for me? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Treating acne scars

Answer: Treating acne scars

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about TCA Peel

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