It would be unusual for someone to need a TCA peel every 2 weeks. A TCA peel is a procedure that causes destruction of the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis), and sometimes the deeper layers of the skin (the dermis) depending on the concentration used. This chemoexfoliation removes superficial skin lesions and improves the texture of the skin. The desquamated areas usually take 7-10 days to heal, and a pink appearance to the skin usually lasts for 2-3 weeks. Complications of treatment include hyperpigmentation, herpes infections, scarring, and prolonged erythema. The results of a TCA peel depend on a number of factors including skin pigmentation, sun exposure, skin thickness, density of sebaceous glands, and the skin contour. The results will vary from patient to patient, but it would be premature in my practice to perform a TCA peel two weeks after the last treatment. I usually treat patients with topical therapies before and after a peel, and two weeks would not be an adequate interval. If you have already gotten a TCA peel and are unhappy with the results, then there may be other therapies that would be best for you. I recommend that you see a board certified facial plastic surgeon for a complete evaluation of your skin and an in-depth discussion of your goals and treatment options.
