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Glycolic Acid Prep for 30 Percent TCA Peel?

I have a Glycolic Acid clear solution. I would like to know what percentage I should use, how many weeks should I use it prior to the peel, and how many times per week I should apply it? Any help would be greatly appreciated. I have had successful TCA peels in the past, but I have heard that a pre treatment would be beneficial.

Doctor Answers 4

Avoid self administered chemical peel without supervision of Board-Certified Dermatologist

December 27th, 2009
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You may be asking for trouble as you start to dabble with higher concentration with glycolic acid or TCA chemical peels on yourself without explicit guidance from your board-certified dermatologist. I have seen few semi-permanent scarring from self-applied chemical peels. To get the best results from TCA chemical peels, your dermatologist may recommend prepping your skin with prescription-strength topical retinoid prior to the TCA chemical peel, possibly immediately preceded by Jessner's peel done in the office.

Web reference: http://www.drwilliamting.com/Cosmetic_Dermatology.html

William Ting, MD


Bay Area Dermatologic Surgeon
4.8 out of 5 stars 12 reviews

Glycolic Acid Prep TCA Peel

December 24th, 2009
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We have almost 22 years experience with glycolic acid in our practice. We have an extensive glycolic acid superficial peel program with a large following of patients who are very happy with their results. Our program consists of a 50 % glycolic acid peel performed every 1 to 2 months (with no downtime) in conjunction with a home maintenance of a glycolic acid cream or solution applied twice a day at home. This home product is 10% unbuffered glycolic acid at a desired low pH. With this program, there is no need in our practice for TCA peels.

We find that glycolic acid peels are much more effective and better tolerated than TCA peels. Also, there is no reason to perform glycolic acid as a prep for a 30% TCA peel.

Sigmund L. Sattenspiel, MD

Sigmund L. Sattenspiel, MD
Freehold Facial Plastic Surgeon

Just follow your doctor's instruction

December 17th, 2009
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How to get good results and have no complications?

1. Pick a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon with experience doing peels.

2. Do EVERYTHING they tell you to do before and after this medical procedure.

Since everyone's skin and diagnosis is unique, it would be irresponsible to tell you what to do, but a good doctor will know EXACTLY what you should do, so: seek, ask and listen.

Web reference: http://www.drmarylupo.com

Mary P. Lupo, MD

Mary P. Lupo, MD
New Orleans Dermatologist
5.0 out of 5 stars 14 reviews

Consult an aesthetic skin care professional prior to self administering skin preps or peels

December 16th, 2009
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I would consult a professional prior to administering any of these peels by yourself. An assessment of your skin type and tolerance are essential. Although this may seem to be trivial and of relatively minor concern, serious complications can arise especially when treating the delicate periorbital area and structures.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

Otto Joseph Placik, MD
Chicago Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 72 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.