I gave myself a 20% TCA peel at home. After a shower I noticed large blisters on my face. Did I harm my skin? (photos)

Question

I gave myself a 20% TCA peel at home. I have done peels before but this time after a shower I noticed large blisters on my face. I am so worried. Did I totally ruin my skin?

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is never recommend that you use professional grade peels at home because of the high risk of adverse reactions. I suggest you go see a dermatologist to access your blister.

Jimmy C. Sung, MD · Answer

Hello Andrea, To do a chemical TCA peel on your skin at home can be very dangerous if not done correctly. The pH of the peel is important to know the depth it will go into the skin & the % of the peel is how much the strength of how much it will irritate your skin. It is never recommended to do a peel yourself (unless the pH is higher and percentage is lower, therefore safe enough for you to do. I recommend that you see a professional as soon as possible to ensure your skin will heal correctly. Go ahead and start using SPF to protect your skin and use more of an emollient moisturizer

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend getting a consultation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Burns need a combination of:
1) healing lasers and light such as aerolase or laser genesis and LED therapy with light stim
2) topical growth factors, stem cells, antioxidants
3) oxygen facials
4) platelet rich plasma and A cell topically
5) sun protection
After 6-12 weeks you can treat for hyperpigmentation with cosmelan peels, hydroquinone, retinol or non ablative lasers like clear and brilliant or radiofrequency like venus viva. Best, Dr. Emer

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

Depends on many factors- most importantly is pre peel prep and MULTICOATING, as Dr Emer has suggested, see an expert immediately. Your skin will have a full thickness epidermal peel that will breach the upper layers of your skin.

I gave myself a 20% TCA peel at home. After a shower I noticed large blisters on my face. Did I harm my skin? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Possibly.

Answer: Possibly.

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Everything you need to know about TCA Peel

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I gave myself a 20% TCA peel at home. After a shower I noticed large blisters on my face. Did I harm my skin? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Possibly.

Answer: Possibly.

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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.