TCA Chemical Peel in South Africa
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Renew Your Skin With A Specialised TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid) Chemical Peel
A TCA peel rejuvenates your skin by gently removing the outer layer of dead skin cells, encouraging cellular renewal and revealing a smooth and radiant complexion.
What is a TCA Peel?
A medium-depth TCA peel utilises Trichloroacetic Acid to renew the skin by lifting dead cells off the surface of your skin and stimulating the metabolism of the cells underneath.
A TCA Chemical peel can substantially improve the appearance of superficial lines and uneven pigmentation while making your skin look and feel softer, smoother, and more radiant. Acne scars and enlarged pores may become less noticeable, and acne breakouts may be reduced.
Learn about our approach, how TCA peel treatments are performed, and contact us to book a consultation.
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Frequently Asked Questions About TCA Chemical Peels
Our approach to TCA chemical peels
At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we prioritise your skin’s health and utilise advanced technologies and high-quality products to ensure optimal outcomes. Each TCA chemical peel is uniquely tailored to meet individual skin concerns, enhancing long-term skin health and beauty.
Before any procedure, we perform a detailed VISIA skin analysis to craft a personalised skincare plan. Our skilled team leverages their deep expertise and a personalised approach to deliver outstanding results in a safe and luxurious setting.
Our TCA chemical peels are specifically formulated for your skin type and concerns. They effectively improve issues such as sun damage, uneven texture, fine lines and wrinkles. TCA peels stimulate cellular turnover, helping you achieve a smoother, even-toned, and radiant complexion.
Types of TCA chemical peels we offer:
Our clinic offers medium-depth Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) peels, which are efficient, mild downtime procedures designed to rejuvenate your skin.
We provide two specific types of TCA peels: the Skin Tech TCA Pain Control peel and the Mesoestetic Melanoplus TCA peel, each tailored to meet different skin care needs and goals.
Contact us to learn more about the types of TCA peels we offer.
How do TCA chemical peels work?
TCA chemical peels utilise Trichloroacetic Acid to achieve controlled chemical exfoliation, effectively removing the outermost layer of dead skin cells. This process breaks down the bonds between dead cells, promoting the regeneration of new, healthier skin cells and improving the overall texture and appearance of the skin.
At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, our experienced professionals meticulously choose the appropriate TCA peel tailored specifically to your skin type and concerns. These peels are particularly effective in treating issues like sun damage, uneven pigmentation, fine lines, and mild scarring by enhancing skin turnover and quality.
The result is a more even-toned, smooth, and radiant complexion, leaving you with a refreshed and revitalised appearance that boosts your overall skin health.
Who is the ideal candidate for TCA chemical peels?
The ideal candidates for TCA chemical peels are individuals looking to enhance their skin’s appearance and address concerns such as:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Uneven skin tone and texture
- Oily or acne-prone skin
- Enlarged pores
- Superficial scars
- Pigmentation
- Sun damage
This treatment is effective across a variety of skin types and concerns, offering broad applicability for improving skin quality.
Before committing to a TCA chemical peel, it’s crucial to arrange a skincare consultation with an expert to ensure it’s suitable for your skin’s specific conditions.
An extensive skin assessment, including a VISIA Skin Analysis, will determine if there are any contraindications and help tailor a personalised treatment approach.
What areas can be treated with a TCA chemical peel?
At our clinic, TCA chemical peels are versatile and can be applied to treat various skin concerns on the face, neck, chest, hands, and shoulders.
How is a TCA chemical peel performed?
TCA peels are administered by experienced skincare professionals in a sterile, medical setting. Prior to the procedure, a thorough examination is conducted during your consultation that includes a VISIA Skin Analysis and is conducted to assess the patient’s skin type and specific concerns. This ensures that the most appropriate type of TCA peel is selected for optimal results.
During the procedure, patients are asked to wear a robe to provide access to the treatment areas, typically the face, neck, and shoulders. The process begins with cleansing the skin, followed by the careful application of the TCA chemical peel. After the peel, a moisturiser and sunblock are applied to protect the skin.
What are the benefits of a TCA peel?
TCA peels offer numerous advantages for skin rejuvenation. They effectively improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin texture and tone. These peels stimulate cell regeneration, which helps resurface the skin to reveal a smoother, healthier complexion.
Additionally, TCA peels are beneficial for reducing visible signs of sun damage, acne scars, and pigmentation concerns.
After undergoing a TCA peel, patients typically notice an enhancement in skin clarity and elasticity, along with reduced imperfections. While the full benefits may require multiple sessions, the outcome is a more youthful and radiant appearance.
Patients are advised to adhere to a tailored aftercare regimen to maximise and maintain these results.
How long does it take to see results from a TCA peel?
The results from TCA peels can vary based on individual skin types, the specific concerns being treated, and the intensity of the peel used.
Generally, patients begin to notice improvements in their skin within 2 to 4 weeks after treatment. Initial changes may include enhanced skin texture and tone, and a softening of fine lines.
As the skin continues to regenerate and heal over time, further benefits such as reduced pigmentation and diminished appearance of acne scars may become more apparent.
How many TCA peel treatments do you need to see results?
While improvements are often noticeable after the first TCA peel, the total number of treatments required can vary based on individual skin concerns and the severity of the issues being addressed.
During your initial consultation, your Skincare Specialist will assess your skin and discuss the optimal number of sessions needed to achieve your desired results. They will customise the treatment plan and provide a cost estimate tailored specifically to your needs.
How long does it take to perform a TCA chemical peel treatment?
The duration of a TCA chemical peel treatment varies depending on the area being treated. Typically, a full face peel can be completed in about 30 minutes. This includes the time needed to prepare, apply, and neutralise the peel, ensuring effective coverage and treatment.
How long is the recovery period of TCA chemical peels?
After a TCA chemical peel, patients typically experience some redness, a sensation similar to sunburn, skin tightness, and mild peeling and dryness for a few days.
The recovery period for TCA peels is relatively brief, allowing most patients to resume their normal activities soon after the treatment.
However, for a few days following the procedure, it is advisable to avoid direct sun exposure, facial waxing, and excessively hot showers or baths. It is also recommended to apply SPF 50 sunscreen twice daily and refrain from vigorous exercise for two days post-treatment.
Following the detailed aftercare instructions provided by your Skincare Specialist is crucial to ensure the best results and minimise any potential risks or complications.
How much does a TCA chemical peel cost in South Africa?
After you consult with the Skincare Specialist, you will be quoted according to the size of the area being treated and the number of sessions required to treat your concerns.
Skin Tech TCA Peel: R 2 450
Skin Tech TCA Pain Control Peel: R 2 750
Mesoestetic MD Peel: R 1 950 – R 3 050
The cost includes a bespoke aftercare pack consisting of relevant product minis to aid the recovery of your skin post-treatment. (Smaller areas will be quoted accordingly).
Contact us to learn more.
Are there alternative treatments for TCA chemical peels?
For those seeking alternatives to TCA chemical peels, our clinic offers a variety of treatments tailored to specific skin concerns:
- MELINE® Chemical Peels In South Africa – Experience MELINE® Chemical Peels, customised exfoliating treatments designed to target and diminish hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and acne, rejuvenating your skin for an even, radiant glow.
- Periocular Brightening Peel – Our Periocular Brightening Peel combines a chemical peel and microneedling to target the delicate eye area, firming and brightening while reducing dark circles and puffiness for refreshed, youthful eyes.
- Pixel Peel – The Pixel Peel combines microneedling with a TCA Peel to enhance skin texture, reduce deep lines, and improve overall skin tone through deeper skin renewal.
- Medical Facials In South Africa – Our tailored Medical Facials are personalised skin treatments which include cleansing, extractions, and custom peel application to rejuvenate and balance the skin.
- Acnelan Peel In South Africa – Tackle severe acne with our Acnelan Peel, offering a dual approach with an intensive in-clinic chemical peel and a complementary home care regimen for lasting clarity.
Schedule a consultation with one of our Skincare Specialists to explore your unique skin concerns. We will offer a tailored assessment and treatment plan, providing clear and honest advice on the best ways to achieve your desired outcomes.
Is a TCA chemical peel safe?
TCA chemical peels are safe when administered by a qualified skin care specialist in a controlled medical setting.
What are the possible risks and complications associated with TCA chemical peels?
While TCA chemical peels are generally safe when performed by a qualified skincare specialist in a medical setting, some risks and complications can occur.
Common side effects include redness, swelling, and peeling of the skin, which typically resolve within a week or two.
More severe, though rare, complications may include post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, where the treated area becomes darker than the surrounding skin, especially in individuals with darker skin types or those exposed to excessive sun post-treatment. Scarring is another rare complication that can result from improper peel depth or poor aftercare.
Infections are a risk if the skin barrier is compromised during or after the peel. Some patients might experience prolonged redness that extends beyond the typical healing phase or allergic reactions to the components of the peel.
There is also a chance of unsatisfactory results, necessitating additional treatments or alternative therapies. Specific conditions such as active skin infections, herpes simplex virus, or chronic skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea may preclude the use of TCA peels. Further, TCA peels are generally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
To minimise potential risks, patients must adhere strictly to pre-treatment and post-treatment instructions and maintain diligent sun protection after the procedure. Patients should discuss all concerns, medical history, and expectations with their skincare specialist to ensure the safest and most effective outcomes from a TCA chemical peel.
TCA chemical peel: Before and After
We are dedicated to providing our clients with safe and effective skincare solutions. Each client’s Skincare Treatment Plan is uniquely tailored to ensure the best possible outcomes.
To accomplish this, we begin with a computerised VISIA Skin Care Analysis that accurately assesses and maps your skin’s condition. This is followed by an in-depth consultation with your Skincare Specialist, where your specific skin concerns are identified and thoroughly discussed.
This meticulous approach allows us to customise treatments that are precisely suited to your skincare needs.
What to do before a TCA chemical peel
- For the week leading up to your appointment, avoid any strong at-home facial treatments or exfoliation to ensure your skin is not overly sensitive or irritated.
- Avoid sun exposure, including tanning, for five days before your treatment to minimise the risk of complications and ensure optimal results.
- Know the skincare products you are using at home and bring a list to your appointment. This information assists your Skincare Specialist in making suitable product recommendations tailored to your skin’s needs.
- Inform your Skincare Specialist about any medications you are taking, medical conditions you have, or past skin conditions you have experienced. Even over-the-counter medications can affect your skin’s response to the peel, so it is essential to disclose what may influence your treatment outcome.
- If you are preparing your skin for a significant event and have never had a skincare treatment before, it is advisable to schedule your peel at least six weeks prior to the event, with a follow-up appointment closer to the date. This allows ample time to address any adverse reactions and ensure maximum results from your treatment(s).
Be ready to discuss your skin concerns and objectives. Your skincare specialist will develop a detailed plan to achieve your specific goals effectively.
We also recommend avoiding any aesthetic procedures, such as Botulinum Toxin injections, Facial Fillers, and Threads, for two weeks before and after any minimally invasive skin treatments.
Day of the TCA chemical peel
If this is your first treatment at our Skin Science Clinic, you will need to complete a short medical questionnaire. This information assists your skincare specialist in selecting the most appropriate treatment protocol for your specific skin needs.
Since the treatment areas include your face, neck, and shoulders, you will be asked to change into a robe prior to the procedure.
The TCA chemical peel procedure will include the following steps:
- Skin surface prep: Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed to prepare it for the peel.
- Prescribed TCA chemical peel application: The TCA peel solution will be carefully applied to the targeted areas to ensure even coverage and optimal penetration.
- Moisturiser application: After the peel has been neutralised, a moisturiser will be applied to hydrate and soothe the skin.
- Sun protection application: Sunscreen will be applied to protect the new skin from UV exposure, which is crucial in the healing process
After a TCA chemical peel
Redness and localised swelling are common immediate reactions on the day of the TCA chemical peel. It’s also typical for pigmented lesions to initially appear darker before they begin to lighten and lift from the skin.
Vascular lesions may look bruised or darker and will gradually fade. The full recovery period is expected to last between 4 to 7 days.
Aftеrcаrе Products and Advice:
- Cleansing: The skin should be gently cleansed both morning and evening using an antibacterial wash with lukewarm to cool water to help reduce irritation.
- Cooling gels: Cooling gels can be applied post-treatment to soothe and reduce inflammation. Your Skincare Specialist will recommend the best options for your skin type.
- Moisturisation: Your skincare specialist will advise you on a suitable moisturiser to promote healing and support the rejuvenation of your skin.
- Sun protection: Daily application of an SPF 50 sunscreen is crucial to protect the new skin from harmful UV rays and prevent hyperpigmentation.
- Avoid facial waxing: Facial waxing should be avoided for 7 days post-treatment to prevent irritation and damage to the delicate new skin layer.
- Limit sun exposure: To aid in healing and avoid further skin damage, limit sun exposure for 2 to 7 days after the treatment.
- Avoid exercise: Refrain from vigorous exercise for 24 hours following the treatment to prevent excessive sweating and irritation.
The treatment includes a bespoke aftercare pack containing relevant product minis designed to aid the recovery and care of your skin post-treatment.
Where are TCA chemical peels performed in Cape Town?
Dr. Nerina Wilkinson + Associates is a private, upscale clinic situated in the prestigious V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. Founded by Dr. Wilkinson, this clinic is part of the renowned House of Aesthetic Couture and Skin Science.
All treatments, including TCA chemical peels, are meticulously performed in the comfortable and luxurious settings of Dr. Wilkinson’s clinic, ensuring a premium experience for every client.
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We specialise in creating personalised peel experiences tailored to your skin’s specific needs. Our commitment to precision and customisation will reveal your skin’s natural beauty and radiance.
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