Glycolic acid works by penetrating the skin to help slough off the dry, rough, uppermost layer, leaving skin looking smoother and healthier. This can be done over the lunch hour and leaves the skin red for a day or two. Multiple treatments are necessary to show some long-term improvements in complexion or pigmentation.
TCA peels make lasting changes with a single treatment. This peel uses Trichloracetic acid to remove the top layer of skin. When this heals, approximately seven days later, the uneven pigment and fine wrinkles are improved. The procedure is done in the office with oral sedation. The concentration of the peeling solution is determined by your needs. Higher concentrations to treat deeper wrinkles take slightly longer to heal. The skin is technically healed at seven to nine days but has a red color which fades to normal skin tones in one to two months.
TCA peels make lasting changes with a single treatment.