How to Treat a Scar From a TCA Peel

A trichloracetic acid (TCA) peel is considered a medium-level peel designed to penetrate the outer layers of skin. When applied to the skin, the peel burns away damaged and dead layers of skin to reveal fresher skin underneath. After the TCA peel heals, results include reduction in blemishes, age spots and wrinkles, according to DocShop.com. Because a TCA peel causes a crust to form over the skin, it is possible to experience scarring following a chemical peel, according to the American Academy of Dermatology 2.

Apply a scar treatment cream to the area to soften the scar. DERMADoctor suggests using Mederma, which is designed to soften scar tissue and improve the appearance of new scars. Scar treatment creams must be applied several times a day to continually help the scar fade.

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Place a silicone gel sheeting over the scarred area. Silicone sheeting has been shown to reduce the size and raised appearance of a scar, according to DERMADoctor. This sheeting often resembles a bandage and can stay on the area for a day or more. Examples of silicone gel sheeting include ScarGuard MD and Kelo-cote Scar Gel.

Undergo a treatment, such as microdermabrasion, designed to reduce scars like TCA chemical peel scars 2. Microdermabrasion is a treatment used by dermatologists and aestheticians to reduce a scar’s appearance by removing the top layer of skin that may have scar tissue on it. Other treatment options that may prove more invasive include laser resurfacing and scar removal via a surgical process known as subcision.

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Allow time for the scar to heal. It is not uncommon for areas to appear hyperpigmented following a TCA peel. These areas of discoloration can be mistaken for scars, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. However, with time, the pigmentation will even out, reducing redness and any brown spots that may occur.

Tips

A dermatologist should evaluate you for the potential to develop scarring prior to administering a chemical peel. Those who are prone to fever blisters, cold sores or keloids are more likely to develop scars, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Avoid the sun while undergoing treatments for scarring following chemical peels. The sun can cause the scar to become darker or lighter than the surrounding skin, making it appear more noticeable.