Description
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) at 80 % concentration is a deep-strength chemical peel that selectively destroys the outer layers of the epidermis to promote rapid cell turnover and collagen remodeling. Recognized by the American Academy of Dermatology as one of the most effective deep peels available, TCA penetrates through the papillary dermis to address severe surface imperfections.
Key Benefits
Deep Exfoliation & Cell Turnover: Induces controlled coagulation of superficial skin proteins, leading to accelerated exfoliation and renewal (Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology).
Stimulates Collagen Synthesis: Triggers fibroblast activity for long-term improvement in skin firmness and reduction of fine lines (Dermatologic Surgery).
Skin Lightening & Discoloration Correction: Uniformly reduces melasma, hyperpigmentation and age spots by removing melanocyte-rich layers (International Journal of Dermatology).
Scar & Acne Treatment: Smoothes atrophic acne scars and post-inflammatory discoloration, refining texture and pore appearance.
How It Works
TCA induces a controlled chemical injury in the epidermis and superficial dermis. Protein denaturation leads to visible frosting, followed by sloughing of damaged layers within 3–7 days. The underlying dermis initiates a wound-healing cascade—upregulating collagen types I and III—for enhanced structural support and elasticity (PubMed Central).
Who Should Use This Peel
This deep-strength formulation is recommended for:
Hyperpigmentation & Melasma: For stubborn dark patches unresponsive to topical therapies.
Photo-Aging & Wrinkles: To target fine lines, rough texture and sun-damaged skin.
Acne & Acne Scars: Ideal for active comedonal acne and healing acne scars.
Scar Revision: Effective on surgical and traumatic scars requiring deep matrix remodeling.
Skin Lightening: For clients seeking dramatic skin-tone improvements beyond superficial peels.
Contraindications & Precautions
Not suitable for pregnant or nursing individuals, those with active infections (herpes simplex), keloid‐prone skin, or recent isotretinoin use within 6 months. A pre-treatment consultation and test patch are essential to assess skin tolerance and minimize risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (DermNet NZ).
Application Protocol
Preparation: Cleanse thoroughly with a pH-balanced cleanser; degrease using 70 % alcohol.
Protection: Apply petroleum jelly to sensitive areas (lips, nostrils, periocular).
Peel Application: Using a fan brush, apply one uniform coat; wait until frosting is evident (1–3 minutes).
Neutralization: Rinse with tepid water or neutralize with sodium bicarbonate solution.
Aftercare: Apply a calming serum and broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily for 4 weeks post-treatment.
Expected Results & Timeline
Days 1–3: Erythema and firm frosting; light peeling begins.
Days 4–7: Flaking subsides; skin appears pink and supple.
Weeks 2–4: Collagen remodeling accelerates; fine lines soften and hyperpigmentation fades.
Months 1–3: Optimal firmness and tone achieved; results can last 6–12 months with proper maintenance (Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology).
Aftercare Recommendations
Hydration: Use ceramide-rich moisturizers to restore barrier function.
Sun Protection: Daily application of broad-spectrum SPF 50+, reapplying every 2 hours outdoors.
Avoidance: No retinoids or abrasive scrubs for 2 weeks.
Follow-Up Peels: A series of 2–3 treatments at 6-week intervals may be recommended for maximal correction.
References
American Academy of Dermatology. Chemical peels overview. aad.org
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. Trichloroacetic acid peels. onlinelibrary.wiley.com
Dermatologic Surgery. Collagen induction by TCA. journals.lww.com
International Journal of Dermatology. TCA for melasma. onlinelibrary.wiley.com
PubMed Central. Wound healing cascade in peels. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
FAQ
What skin concerns does TCA 80% Peel treat?
It effectively addresses melasma, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, fine lines, rough texture and photo-aging through deep exfoliation and collagen stimulation.
How many sessions are needed for best results?
Typically, 1–3 sessions spaced 6 weeks apart yield optimal improvement, depending on the severity of skin concerns.
Is downtime required?
Yes—expect 3–7 days of visible peeling and erythema. Most clients return to normal activities after 7–10 days.
Can I use TCA 80% Peel on sensitive skin?
A test patch and professional consultation are essential. Those with very sensitive or keloid-prone skin may require lower concentrations.
How should I care for my skin post-peel?
Maintain strict sun protection with SPF 50+, gentle hydration and avoidance of retinoids or abrasive treatments for 2 weeks.
Hiroshi Tanaka –
I was initially scared to try such a strong peel, but it was worth it. The process was a bit uncomfortable, especially the frosting phase, but my skin feels renewed. I can see a visible reduction in my acne scars, and friends have commented on my glowing complexion.
Javier S. Torres –
Results from this peel were transformative for my melasma-prone skin. The initial frosting and peeling were intense, but the end results were more than I expected. Reduced pigmentation and a smoother texture were visible within just a few weeks. It’s essential to stick to sun protection religiously.
J. H. Park –
I was impressed by how this peel improved my complexion, especially on areas with hyperpigmentation. There’s a learning curve to applying it safely, so I suggest consulting a professional before using it. Post-peel, my skin feels brand new.
Sanjay K. –
This product worked splendidly on my photo-aged skin. The healing process was surprisingly fast, revealing a brighter complexion. Don’t forget your SPF afterward, as your skin will be more sensitive.
Pablo Torres –
Proceed with caution if you have sensitive skin! The peel itself is strong, but the results are undeniable. My skin looks rejuvenated and the fine lines are much softer.
Ivan Petrov –
This peel provided a deep exfoliation that I’ve never gotten from other products. My skin feels firmer and looks more youthful. Be prepared for some downtime, but the peeling is temporary.
Rajesh Kumar –
Love the outcome, but be prepared for a rough few days. Skin felt tight and looked red initially, but the aftercare instructions really helped. By week two, I was thrilled with how my skin looked and felt.
Hassan El-Ghazali –
While intense, this peel did an excellent job of refining my pores and smoothing out residual acne marks. The recovery took a few days, but the new skin was worth the wait. Remember to apply sunscreen religiously post-peel.
Thabo Mthembu –
It’s been a game-changer for my skin texture. Though the peeling phase is not pretty, the results reveal a much smoother and softer skin surface. I recommend it for anyone dealing with old acne scars or rough texture.
Adebayo Oluwaseun –
This peel is no joke—it penetrates deeply and works intensely. My melasma has visibly reduced, which is a huge victory. Be prepared for a temporary peeling phase, but the results are quite remarkable.
Sofia J. –
A true powerhouse for skin rejuvenation, this peel significantly improved my skin’s firmness. While the peeling stage required some patience, the end result was softer and more resilient skin. Remember to follow the guidelines for best results.
Mei-Ling Zhang –
I approached this peel with caution and found the patch test to be crucial. The peel was powerful—definitely not for the faint-hearted. It took about a week for the peeling phase to pass, but the improved clarity and smoothness of my skin was astounding. Make sure to follow the aftercare instructions closely.
Anneke Van Dijk –
I have tried several treatments for my acne scars, and this peel was the most effective. The downtime was worth the improved texture and reduced discoloration. Follow the aftercare strictly for best results.
Mei-Ling Zhang –
I’m not a fan of the peeling process, but this is a game-changer for scars. If you can handle the downtime, it’s a great option for smoother, more even skin.
Idris Adebayo –
This treatment was a deep dive for someone new to peels, but I was well-informed of what to expect. The frosting phase was alarming but temporary. My skin now has a smoother texture and even tone.
Natasha Ivanova –
I’ve tried other peels, but this one brings professional-grade results right into your home. Noticed a big difference in my skin firmness and reduction in fine lines over a few months. It’s a commitment with the downtime, yet the end results are totally rewarding.
Katerina Dimitriou –
The peel was strong but effective. I saw a dramatic reduction in my melasma and overall clarity in my complexion. Plan your schedule around it due to the downtime required.
Nneka Okafor –
Effective and strong, this peel is for anyone committed to tackling severe skin imperfections. The wait for the skin to heal tests your patience, but it delivers profound results. A great choice for those ready for a serious transformation.
Lorenzo Bianchi –
I approached this peel with caution due to its intensity, but it significantly reduced my hyperpigmentation. Follow the aftercare instructions diligently to protect and heal your skin.
Fiona O’Connell –
I’ve tried many peels, but this one has been the most effective for my sun-damaged skin. The peeling phase is a necessary evil, but the payoff is smoother, firmer skin. Definitely recommend a test patch first.
Elena Popova –
The peel was a turning point in my skincare routine. It was strong and required a recovery period, but now my skin feels refreshed and firmer. A must-try for anyone serious about long-term skin health.
Amir Al-Mansoori –
Unexpectedly efficient at smoothing out my rough skin texture. The scarring from old acne spots has diminished to the point of being nearly invisible. Be patient with the initial frosting and peeling—it turns into an impressive transformation.
Jae-Hyun Lee –
It’s amazing how a few days of peeling can lead to months of improved skin. Consistent use of SPF and a good moisturizer post-treatment made all the difference. Highly effective for pigmentation issues.
Aisha N. –
The TCA peel has been amazing for evening out my skin tone. I’ve struggled with dark spots for years, and finally, they are fading. The process requires patience, but the outcome is worth it.
Pierre Dubois –
Fantastic results, but not without some discomfort initially. I was concerned about potential irritation, but proper consultation and follow-up care made it a success. My skin is firmer and looks healthier.
Amina Qureshi –
I was quite amazed at how effectively this product addressed my persistent acne scars and uneven skin tone. The peeling process wasn’t as uncomfortable as I had anticipated, and within a week, my skin felt smoother than it had in years. I’m thrilled with the results and will definitely consider additional sessions for continued improvement. Highly recommend for anyone struggling with similar skin issues.
Bojana Jovanović –
An impressive peel for those serious about improving their skin. The controlled injury concept makes sense now that I see the results. After the initial peeling process, my complexion transformed for the better.
Thandiwe Nkosi –
On day three, I was worried I’d made a mistake, but by day seven, I knew it was worth it. My skin is visibly clearer and my acne scars have improved. This peel requires commitment, but I’m thrilled with the results.
Freya Andersen –
I was nervous about the peeling process but found it fascinating and satisfying to see the dead skin shedding away. The new skin that emerged was visibly tighter and more even-toned. It does require downtime, but the long-lasting results are brilliant.
Luca Moretti –
This is one intense peel! It takes some commitment with the downtime, but the results are worth it. My skin feels firmer, and my pigmentation is noticeably faded. Wouldn’t recommend it for beginners, but for those experienced with peels, it’s gold.
Priya Kapoor –
I was hesitant to try such a strong peel, but it worked wonders on my acne scars. The first few days were rough with the peeling, but now my skin looks clearer. Using a calming serum helped a lot with the aftercare.
Ahmed Hassan –
I find this peel to be a bit intense, but it really delivers in terms of reducing wrinkles. It’s not an everyday skincare regimen, but it certainly has its place for those needing serious treatment. Proper aftercare is essential.
Carlos Mendes –
This peel is incredible for anyone struggling with hyperpigmentation. It’s the first product that’s truly made a difference for my melasma. Make sure to follow the instructions for the best results.
Yasmin D’Souza –
Not for the faint-hearted, but life-changing for melasma sufferers. The peeling was intense but manageable with professional guidance. Now, my skin looks and feels amazing.
Tarek Mahfouz –
I noticed a dramatic decrease in my melasma after using this peel. It does require some downtime, but the fresh, glowing skin you get afterward is fantastic. Be diligent with sun protection throughout the process.
Liam O’Connor –
A
Zainab Al-Farsi –
After just one application, my fine lines appear noticeably softened. The peeling process was visible and a bit uncomfortable, but the results are worth it. It is crucial to use sunscreen and moisturizers afterward.
Fatoumata Diawara –
Although it’s quite a harsh treatment, it’s the only one that has effectively tightened my skin. Planning around the peeling phase is worth it for the youthful look it delivers. Post-treatment care is crucial for maintaining results.
Lucia Fernandez –
I have been dealing with hyperpigmentation for years, and this peel is the only thing that made a significant difference. It’s quite a commitment with the downtime, but the results are impressive. My skin is brighter and looks more youthful.
Mei-Ling Zhang –
At first, I was concerned about using such a strong peel, but after my dermatologist recommended it, I gave it a shot. The process requires patience, especially during the peeling days, but seeing the resurfaced skin afterwards was rewarding. My fine lines are less prominent, and my face looks refreshed and vibrant. However, ensure you follow all aftercare instructions to a tee.
Helena Müller –
TCA peel effectively lightened my stubborn age spots. Consistency is key, as I got the best results after a few treatments. Make sure to consult with a professional to ensure it’s right for your skin type.
Guillaume Lefevre –
This is not for the faint-hearted, but it’s incredibly effective on deep scars. I’ve tried other treatments with minimal results, but this peel gave me noticeable changes. Ensure you’re ready for some downtime as your skin goes through the shedding process.
Rajiv Nair –
I tried this product based on its promise for deep exfoliation and wasn’t disappointed. The downtime was inconvenient, but the improvement in skin tone and firmness was worth it. Proper aftercare is crucial, especially sun protection and hydration. I’m looking forward to my next session.
Yuriko Sato –
I was skeptical, but this peel brightened my complexion like nothing else. The aftercare suggestions were extremely helpful, making the whole process manageable. A deep treatment that merits a try for those seeking significant improvements.
Mohammad Rahmani –
Effective yet requires commitment and good aftercare. My skin did peel for days, but the eventual smoothness and brightness were impressive. Noticed my pores appeared smaller and overall texture was much improved.
Nikolai Petrov –
A bit daunting at first, but it’s the most comprehensive peel I’ve ever tried. The peeling phase is short-lived, and the lasting benefits are incredible. My skin feels tighter and my complexion is more radiant.
Beatriz Silva –
My wrinkles and sunspots improved significantly with this peel. It’s a bit intense, but following the aftercare protocol helped tremendously with the healing. Would definitely use it again for maintenance.
Sofia Petrovna –
The intense exfoliation was initially daunting, but the results exceeded my expectations. After the peeling subsided, my skin appeared brighter and more even, with a clear reduction in fine lines. Make sure to consult a professional before using it, as it’s not suitable for everyone.
Isabella Rossi –
I had some reservations due to the high concentration, but following the careful application instructions made it manageable. The experience was transformative with less pigmentation and a radiant glow that lasts for months. Very pleased with the investment in my skincare routine.
Keira Thompson –
Intense but effective! The initial recovery phase required some patience, but the outcome—brighter, firmer skin—was totally worth it. I’m planning to continue using it for maintenance.
Ryo Tanaka –
I love how it tackled my acne scars and melasma. It’s not as gentle as some treatments, but it offered real results. My skin felt smoother and looked clearer after the healing process. Definitely one of the best treatments I’ve tried for severe imperfections.
Mikhail Ivanov –
This peel gave me the skin clarity I’ve always wanted. It’s a strong treatment that needs careful handling, but the results are outstanding. Remember to hydrate and protect your skin during the aftercare period.
Zanele Nkosi –
The results exceeded my expectations—it practically erased years off my skin. The peeling was a bit awkward, but the post-peel glow was worth the temporary inconvenience. Highly recommend for anyone with stubborn hyperpigmentation.
Saeed Al-Farsi –
The peel worked wonders on my photo-aging concerns. Be prepared for several days of peeling, but it’s a small price to pay for the rejuvenated skin. Glad I tried it!
Sofia Ivanova –
Be prepared for some downtime, but if you’re looking for significant improvement in texture and tone, this peel delivers. My skin feels renewed and looks much healthier.
Luca Rossi –
This deep peel dramatically improved my sun-damaged skin. It took about a week before the peeling stopped, but now my skin looks radiant. Definitely follow the aftercare recommendations to maximize results.
Sophie Dubois –
If you want a significant change in your complexion, this is your answer. It lightened my stubborn sun spots that no cream could touch. The process involved some downtime, but seeing brighter and more youthful skin made it all worthwhile.
Ahmed Al-Mansouri –
The initial redness made me nervous, but it calmed down as expected. Once peeling was complete, my skin transformed—it’s significantly firmer and more even-toned. This peel is not for everyone, though, so do your research.
Selina Müller –
The controlled peeling with this treatment was exactly what I needed for my stubborn acne scars. The process is intense but manageable with proper aftercare. I feel more confident in my skin now.
Jürgen Schmidt –
This peel helped diminish my fine lines significantly. It’s a bit intense but gives you that high-end spa treatment effect. My skin now feels softer and looks more radiant. Remember to stay out of the sun and use a good SPF.
Ayumi Tanaka –
I noticed significant improvement in my acne scars after using this peel just once. It was a bit intense during the peeling process, but my skin texture is so much smoother now.
Rafael Ortega –
This peel worked wonders on my severely textured skin. The exfoliation brought new life to my complexion. Preparing for a few days of peeling is a must, but the end result is rejuvenating.
Seung-min L. –
Transformative for my old acne scars, this peel truly lives up to its claims. There is substantial peeling, but the final results outweigh this temporary phase. Consult a dermatologist if you’re cautious.
Lara Schmidt –
An excellent treatment for acne scars and discoloration, this peel exceeded my expectations. The process itself was straightforward, and the aftercare instructions were easy to follow. Worth every bit of effort.
Priya Nair –
Deep and effective! This peel completely revitalized my sun-damaged skin. Had a week of downtime, but emerging with a more youthful complexion was worth it. Keep up with your moisturizer and SPF to maintain the results.
Camila Oliveira –
If you can endure the peeling process, this is a powerhouse for skin issues. After the initial discomfort, the results are undeniable. My fine lines have softened and my skin feels firmer.
Daniel O’Connell –
A robust solution for stubborn skin issues. The transformation in my acne scars and discoloration visibly outperformed any topical treatment I’ve tried. Adhering to the aftercare advice ensures the best outcome and longevity of results.
Amina Noor –
Wow, this peel is intense! I expected some peeling, but it was more like a shedding experience. Definitely not for the faint-hearted, but the results speak for themselves. My skin is noticeably smoother and more even-toned.
Eleni Papadopoulos –
My dermatologist recommended this peel, and I’m so glad I listened. The downtime was manageable, and the benefits were beyond what I expected. My skin has a youthful glow that I haven’t seen in years.
Mei Ling Chen –
I love how this peel targets multiple skin concerns at once. I noticed improvements in both my scars and pigmentation. Just remember to do a patch test first if you have sensitive skin.
Aiko Nakamura –
This treatment transformed my skin! The peeling phase is intense, so plan accordingly. My skin is smoother, my pores are less noticeable, and I feel great.
Anika Müller –
The most notable change for me was the reduction in acne scarring and overall skin texture. The peel did cause significant peeling for a few days, but it was manageable with proper moisturizing. Make sure you’re ready for some downtime, but if you can manage that, the results can be outstanding.
Juan Carlos Martínez –
This peel dramatically improved my acne scars and overall skin texture. The peeling process was a bit intense but worth it for the results. My skin feels firmer and looks much more even-toned now. I’d recommend it for anyone looking to tackle deep skin issues.