#regenesismedicalspa.

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Regenesis is a physician-owned medical studio offering medical laser and aesthetic skin treatments. At Regenesis, “Age is just a number.” We specialize in laser skin rejuvenation and resurfacing, IPL phototherapy, laser tattoo removal, microneedling, chemical peels, Botox and Dermal filler injectables. Since 2015, Dr Hudson provided clients with the best Anti-aging and aesthetic skincare New Orleans has to offer.

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5 Ways to Keep your Skin Glowing Throughout Winter.

Drink  Plenty of Water.

Drinking plenty off waterer is paramount to maintaining  great skin.  Most patients to not consume enough water daily. In Winter, the humidity is low not just outdoors but indoors too, and the skin’s water content will reflect the level of humidity around it.Water is essential in keeping your skin cells full and hydrated  and prevents your skin from  becoming sensitive, tight and chapped. Water also helps flush the body of impurities, if this is not happening effectively then you may be more prone to acne flares and breakouts.

Introduce a serum to your skincare routine.

In winter, your skin requires hydration more so than any other season of the year  in order to remain healthy, plump and comfortable.  Serums tend to be  more concentrated and thinner in formulation and can tackle most skin concerns as they are usually designed to address specific skincare needs. In winter, look for a hydrating serum to integrate in your routine. They are applied after you cleanse, while your skin is still damp and before your moisturize This order helps seal in the serum and lock in moisture. I must emphasize that serums do not replace your usual moisturizer, but are used  to boost the hydrating effects of it.

Wear a SPF sunscreen every day.

Sunscreen should be applied daily throughout the year, and application should not be neglected during  the winter months. Even though UVB rays (which cause us to burn) are not present, skin is still exposed to  UVA rays

Applying SPF daily can slow down aging by 24%.  It’s  such a quick and easy step to add into your skincare regimen which makes a huge impact. If the premature aging (or skin cancer) is not enough to convince you to use SPF Sunscreen, t is still beneficial to use it during winter to reinforce the skin’s protective barrier. You probably associate sun damage with the summer, but the snow actually reflects 80% of the sun’s rays, so it is vital to wear sunscreen during the winter months. 

Avoid hot baths and showers.

This is my recommendation all year round, but it is  especially important in the Winter. Long hot baths and showers disrupt the skin’s  natural skin protective barrier, stripping it of its natural oils and moisture, leaving your skin dry, cracked, inflamed and irritated. A 5–10-minute lukewarm bath or shower is best for this season.

You are what you eat.

Unfortunately, during winter, we tend to ditch the healthy eating and we tend to consume more junk food, sugary treats and alcohol. This causes havoc  for our skin. Refined carbohydrates trigger a surge of insulin and this can lead to hormonal imbalances that can exacerbate breakouts and contribute to  inflammation within the skin. Excess alcohol dehydrates you further in the harsh weather conditions and reduces the blood flow to the skin, leaving you with a dull and unhealthy  appearing complexion.

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Creating The Ultimate Daily Skincare Regimen For Your Individual Skin Type. 

Three Main Skincare Routine Steps 

To obtain the most benefit out of a daily skincare regimen, no matter what your skin type, you should begin with three simple steps: 

Cleanse 

Treat 

Moisturize 

Cleansing and Moisturizing are obvious components of a good skin care regimen, but what does "treating" involve? Well, in addition to keeping your complexion in great condition, the goal of any good skincare routine is to target problem areas. So, treating means incorporating serums or creams packed full of beneficial skin care ingredients like Vitamin C, retinol, alpha hydroxy acids and others, depending on your skin type and the results you want to see. Adding this middle step in between the cleansing and moisturizing components is really important. It can make a huge difference over time and in the health, appearance and aging of your skin.    

The Importance of Sticking with It 

The results of a good skin care routine require patience and diligence e.. Even the best skincare products take time to work, so do not expect results overnight. If you stick to a consistent, daily routine, you can expect to see some benefits within six to twelve weeks. Three to four months may be required to determine whether your new routine is really effective. 

Here, the best dermatologist-approved daily skincare routine for morning and night, including the basic steps that should be in every at-home regimen for oily, dry combination or acne-prone skin Your Morning Skincare  

Routine Steps 

1. Cleanser 

Facial cleansing should be the first step performed in any skincare regimen, as it clears away impurities and excess oil that can clog pores and dull skin. Cleansing should be gentle. Too many clients cleanse too much or too often or use a cleanser that’s too harsh, which will actually break down your skin’s natural protective barrier. If you have dry or sensitive skin, I suggest cleansing your skin only at night and rinsing your face with water in the morning. 

The best cleansing formulas will gently cleanse your skin without stripping it of healthy oils. A good sulfate- and soap-free cleanser for the face will be pH-balanced and gentle to maintain skin’s barrier without stripping. Here are recommendations for the best facial cleanser depending on your skin type: 

Oily skin: A foaming or gel cleanser will ensure adequate removal of excess oil and dirt from your skin; ingredients like niacinamide and salicylic acid can help regulate and remove excess oil.  

Ane-prone skin: A gentle foaming cleanser with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide or sulfur are recommended. 

Dry skin: Look for a cream or balm formula with hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid and botanical oils that will moisterize and not strip skin. . 

Sensitive skin: Try micellar water, an ultra-gentle cleanser that includes tiny particles called micelles that trap impurities and lift them away without drying your skin in the process. 

2. Toner 

Toners are a water-based skin care liquid that's applied to dry skin after face cleansing using fingers, a cotton ball or cloth, and are used before appllying other skincare treatments like serums and moisturizers.  The use of a toner is not required. But applying one on can be a great way to refresh skin, remove any residual debris and balance pH. And if you are looking for additional complexion-purifying and brightening benefits, today's toners are much more advanced compared to the drying alcohol- and astringent-based formulas which were popular in the oast. These are packed with skin-boosting benefits that can leave your complexion glowing. Here are the ingredients you will want to look for, based on your skin type: 

If you have acne-prone skin, look for a toner containing hydroxy acids, including salicylic acid and lactic acid, which increase cellular turnover. 

For dry or sensitive skin, search for a hydrating toner (or its sister, an essence) that is devoid of alcohol and contain mosietrizing  ingredients such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid to soothe.  

For combination skin, I recommend gentle exfoliants, hydration boosters and antioxidants like Vitamin C, vitamin E and green tea, which can combat free radicals and prevent skin damage. 

For oily skin, look for astringents, such as alcohols or witch hazel, that decrease oil and tighten pores. 

3. Serum 

A serum individualized to your skin concerns can both treat and protect, delivering concentrated amounts of powerful ingredients that can address a number of complexion issues, from wrinkles to dark spots. If you possess multiple concerns, you can use several different serum formulas. Be sure to read the labels carefully as some serums are best used in the morning, while others are ideal for nighttime.  

An antioxidant serum which will prevent the formation of free radicals and lessen signs of aging over time is one serum that all cli8ents can benefit from. The gold-standard antioxidant serum is vitamin C. Everyone should use vitamin C, no matter what your age. This antioxidant helps to reverse a lot of the skin damage that is caused by the sun and pollution. For darker skin tones, hyperpigmentation is often a common issue, and using a vitamin C serum in the morning can also help mitigate and minimize dark spots,  

In addition to antioxidant serums, anti-aging serums may be utlized featuring the following ingredients to address wrinkles, fine lines and more: 

Hyaluronic acid serums draw moisture into the skin, combatting dryness and dullness, plus plumping skin. 

Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 that brightens and evens skin tone, boosts collagen production and calms inflammation. 

Retinoids to stimulate cellular turnover and increases collagen production, reducing wrinkles and hyperpigmentation These are best used at night! As sunlight inactivates Vitamin A. 

Peptides, comprised of amino acids, are the building blocks of collagen and can boost its production which helps to smooth lines and increase skin's firmness. 

4. Eye Cream 

Eye creams differ from face creams because they are formulated specifically for the delicate eye area, which ages more rapidly than the rest of your face — and therefore it falls into the "treat" category, too. If you are looking to address  fine lines, wrinkles, a lack of firmness, dark circles or undereye bags, an eye treatment product is definitely worth it.  

To target dark circles, use niacinamide or vitamin C. For puffiness, use a formula contaning caffeine.  For wrinkles and sagging skin, look for formulas containi9ng peptides and retinol. Lastly, Vitamin K can decrease dark undereye circles and hyaluronic acid can increase hydration.  In order to treat multiple eye area issues, search for a product that contains a combination of these ingredients targeted to your needs. 

When applying in the morning and at night, lightly tap on a formula targeted to your eye-area concerns, using your ring finger (your weakest) to avoid tugging on delicate skin and causing damage. 

5. Moisturizer 

The next step is applying a facial moisturizer These serve to keep your skin soft and hydrated and help strengthen its barrier. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, opt for a lighter moisturizer during the daytime, such as a lotion or gel that will be absorbed quickly.  If your skin is drier, apply a thicker formula, like a cream. Either way, dermatologists recommend moisturizers for all skin types, year-round, since hydrating the skin is crucial for keeping skin looking youthful and healthy. Look for ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid, since these ingredients are effective at maintaining and retaining moisture in the skin.  

Massage moisturizer in as you apply it, which will increase its absorption and effectiveness, plus improve circulation.  

Choose a moisturizing formula, based on your skin type:  

Dry skin: A rich cream packed with emollients, humectants, ceramides and occlusives is key to quenching dryness.  

Oily or acne-prone skin: Look for light lotions or gel-based formulas labeled "non-comedogenic" or "oil-free". 

Sensitive skin: Moisturizers that are hypoallergenic and free of potential irritants, like fragrance and alcohol are recommeded.   

6. Sunscreen 

Sunscreen remains the most important step in any skincare routine, for every skin type and age. Sun exposure is the number one factor skin ages prematurely. The damage is not only cosmetic, no matter what your skin color: People of color can and do develop skin cancer. Plus, if you are treating hyperpigmentation without daily SPF use, it is like taking two steps forward and one step backward. It is important to protect your skin from the sun even if you are spending your days indoors, as UV rays can penetrate through the windows. 

Apply a nickel-sized dollop of broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher face sunscreen as the last step in your morning skincare routine. Apply to the skin of your neck and the backs of your hands, 30 minutes before you head outside. If you want to minimize the steps in your routine to make things easier, you can use a daily moisturizer will SPF instead of applying a moisturizer and SPF separately.  

 

There are two main types of sunscreen formulas: 

Chemical sunscreens: These  are made with chemical ingredients like avobenzone and homosalate, which absorb the UV light that comes in contact with skin. 

Physical sunscreens:  Referred to as mineral sunscreens, these contain mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which reflect UV light off of skin.  

Some SPF formulas include both chemical and physical ingredients. If you have sensitive skin, dermatologists recommend mineral and pure zinc-oxide sunscreens for sensitive skin. For those with oily skin, choose non-comedogenic, oil-free gel sunscreen formulas. If you have dry skin, avoid spray or gel sunscreens that contain alcohol. People with darker skin tones may prefer chemical sunscreens to avoid the white cast of some physical formulas, though brands have begun to produce mineral formulations without the chalky appearance. 

Your Night Skincare Routine Steps 

Your nighttime routine is the perfect time to ensure your skin is getting as many nutrients and active ingredients as possible, since your skin regenerates and repairs itself while you sleep. You should follow the same basic three steps — cleanse, treat and moisturize — but at night, the routine will look a little bit different.  

1. Cleanser 

First, begin by removing the day's makeup and dirt. Apply a separate makeup remover if needed, to remove any cosmetics. Cleansers are not necessarily designed to dissolve makeup, especially that around the eyed. Follow with the same cleanser as in the morning, working from the inside of the face up, then out and down along the hairline and perimeter to just underneath the chin.   

2. Toner 

If you are opting for a toner, apply it the same way you would in the morning. Because they are liquids, toners should go on before heavier formulas like serums and moisturizers, so these have a chance to be absorbed. 

3. Serum or Treatment 

Nighttime is an ideal time to use products with ingredients that work to slough off dead skin cells or stimulate cell turnover while you sleep, such as alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid or retinol. This smooth texture, brighten the skin and minimize pores. Some serums can be used day or night; follow the packaging instructions. If you are treating hyperpigmentation, I suggest alternating between a retinoid and the spot-fading active ingredient hydroquinone. 

4. Eye Cream 

Dab a bit of your face serum or treatment, or a separate eye cream if you around your eyes. You do not have to use a lot, but if you start training your skin to tolerate more active products around the eye, you will see more change and improvement. 

5. Acne Treatment 

If you currently have a blemish, apply an acne treatment at this time. For chronic breakouts, be proactive rather than treating pimples as they arise. If you just treat only the spot, you’ll get acne right next to it if your skin is clogged. The reason why you are getting breakouts is because oil is building up, so be consistent with your regimen to keep pores all over your face clear. If you are using a retinoid, let your skin adjust before trying acne formulas like salicylic acid to prevent redness and drying. 

6. Night Cream 

Moisturizing is especially crucial at night, as it creates a barrier that seals in skin’s natural hydration and any active ingredients to counteract moisture loss that happens while you sleep. But while you can use that non-SPF Day moisturizer at night, using a night-specific formula will have targeted anti-aging benefits, repairing damage which occurs during the day. Whereas regular moisturizers focus on improving the natural moisture barrier of the skin only, night creams contain active ingredients that assist with improving the skin beyond adding moisture. 

7. Face Oil 

The use of a face oil is not a necessary step, but if your skin is still feeling dry, applying a face oil can be a fantastic way to help lock in moisture overnight. A lot of people think that if they have acne or oily skin, they’ll break out with an oil, but it’s not true. It can really help soften skin. For a nourishing boost, apply a face oil as a last step once the rest of your leave-on skincare products dry — just be sure to apply by pressing it into your skin, not rubbing it in. 

Special Tools 

Beyond a basic washcloth, no additional tools ot devices are required for your skincare routine; however, but there some at-home skin tools that can deliver major benefits. Here are a few worth trying: 

Facial cleansing brushes: Consider using one of these handheld tools designed to help you achieve a deeper cleanse. Studies have shown that that clearer, smoother more radiant skin can be achieved after just one week of use. But if you have sensitive skin, eczema or rosacea, you will to use these brushes sparingly. 

LED face masks: Similar to professional LED light therapy, LED masks use visible light to improve skin by reducing bacteria, decreasing inflammation, improving blood flow, and stimulating collagen production. Different light settings target different concerns. For example, blue light helps treat acne by reducing bacteria while red light is typically utilized to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production. Green light may help address hyperpigmentation. 

Gua sha tools: Somewhat similar to jade rollers, these smooth stones can deliver a mini-facelift effect due to lymphatic facial drainage. Based on an ancient Chinese healing technique, gua sha tools are largely used as more of a massage technique and a self-care tool. Gentle upward strokes on the face and neck are used to quell puffiness and swelling. 

Facial steamers: If you possess oily, acne-prone skin or deep-rooted blackheads, facial steaming twice a week for about fifteen minutes max can help unclog your pores and help your skincare products absorb better.  You may want to steer clear if you have dry skin, sensitive skin, rosacea, or eczema).  

Face Masks  

Face masks can help your skin, especially with long-term use. Incorporate one into an at-home facial regimen once or twice per week by applying it on your clean, dry face, avoiding the delicate tissue surrounding the eyes and mouth unless the mask is made for those areas. Remove it per packaging instructions and follow with other leave-on skincare products as directed or needed. Whether you are opting for a DIY skin treatment, a sheet mask or an overnight mask, you want to make sure you are choosing the right face mask for your particular skin type:  

Oily skin: Use a mask containing ingredients like clay or charcoal, which will absorb oil. 

Dry skin: Look for words on the label like “hydrating,” “moisturizing” or "nourishing" containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, plant oils and butters. 

Sensitive skin: Seek out anti-inflammatory ingredients such as aloe, chamomile and oatmeal. 

Combination or normal: Look for face masks targeted for your current skin goals or try spot treating using  certain areas with multiple masks.  

Exfoliation 

Facial exfoliation removes the skin's outer layer of dead skin cells in order to make it appear smoother, brighter and clearer.  There are three main types of exfoliations, each with different functions that work best for different skin types, concerns and needs. 

Physical exfoliants: Also referred to as mechanical exfoliators, this category includes washcloths and cleansing brushes as well as face scrubs with abrasive particles that lift away dead skin with friction. These are best for those clients who have dry or sensitive skin. 

Chemical exfoliants: This includes chemical peels and cleansers, containing acids or enzymes like AHAs and BHAs that loosen the bonds between dead skin cells so they can be dislodged. These are best for those clients with mature or acne-prone skin. 

Combo exfoliants: Rinse-off exfoliators consist of that both physical and chemical exfoliating ingredients in one product. These are best for those with oily skin. 

Physical exfoliants can be applied two to three times per week in the morning or evening after cleansing. Chemical exfoliants should be applied once weekly, morning or evening after cleansing for sensitive or dry skin and three times a week maximum for other skin types. Combo exfoliants can be applied weekly up to daily, depending the  specific product's instructions. 

Call 504.400.6480 to schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr Hudson at Regenesis Medical Spa.

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TCA Peels

What exactly is a TCA peel?  

TCA, which stands for trichloroacetic acid is one of the most commonly used, most studied and tested acid peels in dermatology. TCA is a medium depth peel which has been used with excellent results for over 130 years. Considered the true anti-aging peel, this peel stimulates the production of collagen, glycosaminoglycans and elastin fibers.  Wound healing by TCA leads to deposition of collagen, glycosaminoglycans and elastin fibers in the first few weeks. After that, dermal connective tissue remodeling takes over which may continue for several months. TCA’s superiority comes from its versatility. It can be applied in a single layer as a superficial peel, or it can be layered to deepen penetration. Safety dictates that more layers of a lower % is always the best method. TCA is well tolerated in all skin tones and types with proper preparation for darker* types. It is highly effective for treating hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, fine lines, rough skin, photo damage, flat warts, skin laxity, acne and scarring. Between 6-8 treatments will be administered in bi-weekly/monthly increments. TCA will improve color, freshness, texture, skin tone, and fine wrinkles. It will also improve superficial discoloration, such as age spots. It may improve blotches and can sometimes improve dark circles under your eyes. TCA is a natural second step when other acids stop producing benefits.  It is also the first suggestion dermatologists recommend to you to treat cystic acne issues. 

Considered the "gold standard" of all acids milder than phenol, TCA peels are commonly used now due to their excellent reliability and predictability.  

TCA can be easily adjusted to any depth needed to address common skin issues and imperfections. For example, someone requiring only minor epidermal improvement, a single application of 10%-15% would be effective.  In contrast, if the issue is deeper in the dermis, a stronger solution or more layers can be applied to reach the issue.  

I must emphasize that the number of coats, and or the volume of solution will increase the depth of the peel. The percentage concentration of TCA does not make the peel move deeper. Instead, it is the layers of solution or volume of solution that affects the degree of penetration.

How does TCA work?  

TCA's mechanism if action differs from regular hydroxy acids that just dissolve bonds. Trichloroacetic acid coagulates the dermal and epidermal proteins in the skin, then "shuts down". So, the more solution that is applied, the deeper the acid will penetrate as it seeks protein to neutralize itself. If you apply many layers, TCA will continue to penetrate deeper into the skin. Applying a heavy amount of solution (I.e., face is too wet), the acid will continue to penetrate into the skin until it can neutralize all of the acid. This is why the application should be cautious so that an excessive amount of acid is not applied at any one time.    

The TCA peels performed at Regenesis Medical Spa are certified - pH Guaranteed - % Guaranteed - Have Cool Action and are used in Spas and Dermatologist's Our TCA peels are professional treatments costing up to hundreds of dollars per treatment.  If you are dealing with acne, pigmentation issues, rough skin texture, wrinkles, scars or just want to look refreshed and amazing, start peeling away the years of neglect now.  

TCA Peel Benefits 

A wide variety of chemical peels are available today for use in office. Each acid can treat more than one type of skin issue, but each chemical peel is commonly used for one particular reason.  Considered the "gold standard" of all acids milder than phenol, TCA peels are commonly used now due to their excellent reliability and predictability.  TCA can treat every Fitzpatrick skin type, issue and coloration. It can be used superficially in very mild percentages (10%-20%), and also for medium depth peels (up to 35% *Office only). It can be also used in combination with other acids such as Jessners or applied alone.  

TCA is a highly regarded acid and is perfect for treating the following common issues: 

•Blemishes  •Skin Tone Irregularities  • Skin Texture Issues  •Age Spots - hyperpigmentation - epidermal and some dermal melasma  •Fine Wrinkles  •Scarring and Acne Scars: icepick, rolling 

TCA peel is a great acid to use when treating scars. As you break down the scar tissues and stimulate the growth of replacement tissues. The TCA cross is technique is used to treat acne scarring. You can move things along even faster by incorporating a Copper Peptide into your revision regimen. 

All skin types can benefit from a TCA peel, but patients which are prone to post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation, or have a naturally darker skin tone, will require special pre-treatment using a melanin inhibitor to prevent and avoid any unintentional color changes in the skin. These are generally Fitzpatrick IV, V, and VI, but any type could potentially have an issue.  

Trichloroacetic (TCA) Acid Peel 

Free Acid Concentrations of7%, 13%, 20% and or 30% are available at Regenesis Medical Spa.  We offer a professional grade "cool-action" (7, 13 and 20) TCA peel with an unbuffered pH of 1.3. TCA is the peel that all other peels are compared to. We find it is easy to use, and very predictable. Most dermatologists prefer to use TCA over other acids due to its effectiveness and dependability. If you are searching for long-lasting, dramatic changes in your skin, a TCA peel is the correct choice for you.  

  *Pretreat with Fade Bright for 2 weeks minimum. 

In treating ethnic skin (Fitzpatrick levels III-VI), I recommend pretreating with a melanin inhibitor or a hydroquinone containing product for a period of 2-3 weeks prior to undergoing your peel. Studies have shown that TCA can be safely used in darker skin types. The safe use of TCA requires longer preconditioning of the skin, a milder strength of acid and strategies used to avoid the development of PIH (Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation). 

Preconditioning includes topical agents such as melanin reducers, retinoids, or hydroxy acids that will thin the stratum corneum and minimize the production of melanin. This accelerates the penetration of the acid into the skin and increases the speed of wound healing - all of which reduce the risk of PIH.  

In a deeper peel (20% or several layers of a 13%) PIH can develop when the pink stage of healing starts to fade. Sunscreens, heat avoidance, steroid creams and melanin inhibitors can help to reverse this quickly. After 2 weeks, a non-inflammatory type of acid peel such as Salicylic Acid may be used to help treat the pigmentation. 

You can choose from one of the four available percentages: 

Level 0 TCA  7% (1.3pH) * Preferred for those clients with extreme skin sensitivity. Great for treating crow feet and loose eye hoods.  

Level 1 TCA 13% (1.3pH) * Perfect for beginning peelers who desire more flaking than achieved by hydroxy acids. **Considered the best choice for ethnic skin. 

Level 2 TCA 20% (1.3pH) * This peel is suitable for those clients who have been consistently undergone application of 4-5 layers of the 13% and who are looking for more aggressive peel.  Recommend working up in layers with extreme caution. *This is the maximum strength recommended for darker tones on body requiring a melanin inhibitor prep 2-3+ weeks.  

Level 3 TCA 30% (1.3pH) * This is strictly used for CROSS or body use only or is diluted for use. This is never a beginner peel.  This percentage is NOT recommended for ethnic skin tones.  

How deep can a TCA peel penetrate into your skin?  

TCA acid peels can penetrate quite deep into the skin and are regarded as a medium depth peel. When applied in multiple layers; TCA peels can penetrate down into the epidermis and even a bit into the upper papillary dermis. This is beneficial for many skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation, fine lines and scarring since they tend to run as deep. Regular hydroxy acids peels cannot penetrate past the Stratum Corneum, so they are considered more of a superficial peel, very superficial peel, or just an exfoliation.  

  TCA Peel Recovery Time 

Recovery time will take approximately one week.  In applying this peel, we are purposely creating a controlled burn to stimulate tissue regeneration. There is a typical process which occurs during healing following application of a TCA peel.  

On the first day of your peel your skin will be smooth, tight, and possibly a little bit pink. I recommend keeping your skin well hydrated with emu oil/hyaluronic or another moisturizing product such as Hydrophor. Within the next 2-3 days, your skin will be tighter and could feel dry, and may appear darker on surface areas. Wrinkles and fine lines may look more prominent as the skin is preparing to come off. Depending on the percentage of acid you applied, and the number of layers, you will begin to see flaking on days 3-4. Flakes will begin on the areas of your face that are in motion such as around the mouth and nose. It will take another 3 days or so for the flaking to stop. It is important to refrain from picking off peeling skin.  

The debate versus dry or moist skin during healing. 

There are conflicting opinions between most Dermatologists as to whether or not you should allow your skin to dry up (I.e., the thought is that it is better for peeling) or you should hydrate it. Most dermatologists and I recommend that your skin always be hydrated. In allowing the skin to become dry, you run the risk of excessive itching or a possible cracking and tearing of the skin with facial movement. Dry skin results in extra tiny flaking. A hydrated face will not only feel more comfortable, but the flaking will peel off in larger, more manageable pieces. Hydrating does not impair or change the effects of a peel.  

What kind of peeling can you expect with a TCA peel? 

The variation in peeling is huge, as TCA is such a customize-able peel. I recommend clients begin with the 13% peel and not move up until you are unsatisfied with a 5-layer peel. That is the ONLY reason to ever move up in strength. *Never get a 20% just because you want to "peel more". It is the layering of the peel that cause the flaking.   

TCA 7% - 1 layer: provides exceptionally light flaking. No frosting at all is observed during the application process. Results in very mild feeling. Tingling or itching may be present during the peel. 

TCA 13% - 1 layer:  results in very mild fllaking. Barely noticeable flakes that are super easy to manage.  No frosting is likely to occur during the application process. This results in very mild peeling. Mild tingling or itching occurs.  

TCA 13% - 2-3 layers:  results in moderate flaking for a period of 3-4 days.  There is no browning. Skin appears slightly crinkly in appearance for a few days. There may be a few spots of frosting occur here and there. Cheeks, forehead, and nose area are possibilities. Tingles at each layer, could feel a bit of stinging depending on sensitivity for a few minutes.  

TCA 13 - 4-5 layers: results in a deeper peel. You should see frosting during this application process and will feel stinging on layers 3-5 that will gradually go away by the end of the 5 minutes between applying layers.  Slight browning should occur in the outermost layers of dead skin. It turns brown because the skin is no longer attached. It is truly "dead" and will peel off.     *If you have undergone an Obaji peel (which consists of 3-5 layers of a 15% or 20% solution) or have been treated with 13% TCA Peel at 5 layers consistently, then you may be ready to move up to single layer of the 20% TCA Solution. Again, caution should be used depending on your Fitzpatrick number. One should always receive a prep with a melanin inhibitor or Hydroquinone product prior to undergoing a high % TCA peel for a minimum of 2 to 2.5 weeks prior to undergoing a peel. This helps avoid or greatly diminish the development of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.  

 It is important to remember that you do not always have to actually peel following a TCA peel to see the benefits. Visible peeling is just a side effect, The actual ‘peeling’ occurs at the cellular level. Many people will find that their flaking is quite minimal after a series of peels.   

TCA Peel Side Effects 

Any chemical peel may result in undesired outcomes. That is why preparing the skin prior to a peel is of paramount importance. To ensure we minimize any complications, it is important to follow the recommended protocol.  

PIH - Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin becomes inflamed/damaged/wounded. The epidermis stimulates melanin production, and a brown patch will appear after healing. A common example is when a dark spot appears after the inflammation of a pimple is healed. This PIH may take several weeks to months to fade. By applying a broad-spectrum SPF of 30+ daily, a daily antioxidant, Retinol Vitamin A, and a fade gel daily, this outcome can be greatly minimized or avoided entirely.  

Scarring - Scarring after a chemical peel is uncommon. If you are among those that have a history of keloidal scarring, it would be best to avoid peels in general. In these cases, I recommend using a topical acid serum or Retinol instead.  

Redness - A continued state of redness is not common with a lower strength TCA acid peel. This more commonly occurs with a Phenol peel. 

Infection - The TCA itself will not cause an infection, but if you are Herpes simplex positive, the peel irritation itself could result in an activation of a cold sore infection. If you are Herpes simplex prone, I recommend Acyclovir prophylaxis prior to undergoing any chemical peel application. 

Because burning, irritation and itching, stinging sensations are uncomfortable, the TCA peels performed at Regenesis Medical Spa contains a “Cooling-Action” additive that will make this the most comfortable TCA peel you have ever received.  This additive assists in minimizing the 'burning effect' that many clients experience with application of stronger acids. This cooling action allows for a more comfortable peel for clients.  

To see if you might benefit from a TCA peel, please call 504.400.6480 to schedule a complimentary consultation.