Cotton pad or ball? I always get an uneven result of missed areas with a fan brush. I plan on doing a 40% TCA peel (Photos)

Question

should i use a cotton ball or pad instead for a more even peel? should i spot treat first with a qtip? then apply yo whole face? I am using kojic acid soap as a pretreatment. when should i discontinue the soap before the peel? When should i start using hydroquinone & tretinion after the peel date? i head that not moisturizing the skin during a tca peel helps it heal faster and am considering doing so is this safe? what other products should i use to successfully have the best results possible?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I don't recommend doing a TCA peel yourself. These should be administered by a professional. See a cosmetic dermatologist for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Miguel Mascaro, MD · Answer

Selena, thank you for your question.  40% TCA peel can be aggressive if done without supervision.  I am concerned by your underlying skin type and your propensity to have post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.  If you were my patient I would begin pretreatment with hydroquinone a month before.  I strongly suggest you consult either a facial plastic surgeon or dermatologist comfortable with skin peels to ensure the best result as they would need to examine your skin prior to undergoing any treatment.  I would not recommend you do this yourself.  Best of luck.

Cotton pad or ball? I always get an uneven result of missed areas with a fan brush. I plan on doing a 40% TCA peel (Photos)

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