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TCA PEEL
TAILORED EXFOLIATION
WITH A TCA CHEMICAL PEEL
WHAT IS A TCA PEEL?
A TCA (trichloroacetic acid) peel is a professional-grade chemical exfoliation treatment designed to refine the skin’s surface and support renewal from within.
It works by applying a carefully balanced concentration of TCA solution to the face, chest, back, or hands, dissolving surface build-up and encouraging healthy cell turnover. Each peel is customised in strength and depth to suit your skin type and overall treatment goals.
WHAT DOES IT TARGET?
Surface texture
Tone variation
Fine lines
HOW DOES IT WORK?
A TCA peel works by creating a controlled exfoliation effect within the skin. The depth of activity will depend on the concentration of the solution and the layering technique used:
- Light peels (≈10–15%) act within the epidermis to refine surface texture and refresh skin tone.
- Medium-depth peels (≈20–35%) reach further to support surface refinement and tone balance.
Your clinician adjusts both the concentration and number of layers to achieve the intended level of exfoliation while maintaining the skin’s barrier integrity.
WHO IS IT FOR?
TCA chemical peels can be tailored for a wide range of skin types, with the strength and depth adjusted to address specific texture or tone variations. This could include areas affected by post-acne marks, visible pigmentation, or changes from sun exposure.
Chemical peels are not recommended if the skin is actively irritated, sunburned, or healing from another cosmetic treatment.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR TCA PEEL
You’ll start with a consultation to determine if a TCA peel is suitable for your specific skin type and goals. From there, your dermal clinician will come up with a tailored plan, recommending the appropriate treatment strength, number of sessions, and accompanying skincare to support your treatment.
During your treatment session
Timelines are a general guide and may vary based on your skin response and treatment plan.
- Each session is 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the area and peel depth.
- Often completed as a series of 3 to 5 sessions spaced over a few weeks.
- You may feel a slight tingling or warmth as the peel exfoliates your skin.
- Mild redness or tightness may occur afterwards and may begin to flake or shed lightly over the following days.
- Soothing products are applied immediately after treatment.
Preparing for your treatment
Preparation guidance may differ based on your skin and medical history.
- Pause active skincare (retinoids, AHAs/BHAs) for 3 to 5 days before treatment.
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure before treatment.
- Avoid waxing, tanning, or heat-based treatments before your appointment.
- Arrive with clean skin, free from makeup, sunscreen, and self-tanning products.
- Inform your clinician about any recent cosmetic procedures or medication changes.
- Use your recommended skincare to help prepare the skin for treatment.
After your treatment
Recovery times are different for everyone. If you need personalised aftercare advice, please contact the clinic.
- Avoid direct sun exposure for around 1 to 2 weeks and apply SPF 50+ daily.
- Hydrate the skin with gentle, non-active moisturisers.
- Avoid direct heat, steam rooms, and intense exercise for 48 hours.
- Mild flaking or dryness may occur. Avoid exfoliation or picking.
- Skip makeup for 24 to 48 hours or until redness has settled.
- Follow your clinician’s personalised aftercare plan to support recovery.
TGA-LISTED TECHNOLOGY
YOUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here, our dermal clinicians have answered some of your most commonly asked questions about TCA chemical peels. For tailored guidance, you’re always welcome to contact the clinic.
A TCA peel works by creating a controlled chemical reaction within the skin. The trichloroacetic acid helps exfoliate surface cells, allowing new ones to form as part of the skin’s natural renewal cycle. This process also activates the body’s regenerative response, supporting the development of structural proteins such as collagen and glycosaminoglycans. These components help maintain the skin’s strength and overall function over time.
Because each person’s skin renews at a different rate, the visible response and recovery timeline can vary.
The number of sessions depends on the peel strength, your skin type, and how your skin reacts to exfoliation. Lighter peels may be used for regular maintenance, while medium-depth peels are usually performed as a short course with time allowed for recovery in between treatments.
Your dermal clinician will determine the most appropriate approach after assessing how your skin behaves between sessions.
TCA peels and microneedling work in different ways but can complement each other within a professional treatment plan.
- A TCA peel focuses on the surface layers, helping to renew the skin through controlled exfoliation.
- Microneedling works a little deeper, creating tiny microchannels that prompt the skin’s natural repair process and encourage new collagen formation.
When used together, these treatments can support both surface refinement and deeper structural support. Your clinician will guide you on the best sequence and timing to allow recovery and maintain skin balance between sessions.
TCA peels are generally classified as medium-depth chemical peels, meaning they act more deeply than superficial peels such as lactic or glycolic acid. However, they are more moderate in strength than formulations like Cosmelan, which combine multiple active agents. The strength of each peel depends on the percentage used and the number of layers applied.
Your clinician will recommend the most suitable option based on your treatment goals, skin type, and sensitivity.
Pricing depends on the peel concentration and depth, treatment area, and whether it forms part of a broader clinical skin plan. Your clinician will provide a detailed cost outline during consultation once your personalised plan has been developed.
SUPPORTING YOUR SKIN GOALS
TCA peels can form part of a personalised clinical plan designed to help maintain balanced skin function and support the renewal of surface layers. When scheduled at appropriate intervals, they can complement other in-clinic treatments that target different aspects of skin health.
Skin texture and tone
Pigmentation
Post-acne scarring
Sun exposure
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
All cosmetic treatments involve potential risks, side effects, and downtime. Everyone’s skin responds differently, so results vary and are not guaranteed. A clinical consultation is required to assess suitability and discuss expected outcomes, after-care, and alternative options.
Let’s talk about your skin
Clinicians who understand your skin
“Amazing clinicians and very professional staff who made me feel super comfortable throughout my visit.”
Behind every treatment is a team of accredited dermal clinicians, nurses, and doctors who genuinely care about your skin and how you feel in it. With advanced training and a commitment to precision, you’re supported by people who understand your skin on a deeper level.
At our Kew skin clinic, every detail is considered for your comfort and continuity of care. It’s an approach that reflects our philosophy: prioritising natural, balanced outcomes that protect your skin’s long-term health and integrity.