It is preferable to a phenol peel for darker-skinned patients. Anesthesia is not usually required for TCA peels because the chemical solution acts as an anesthetic. Sedation may be used before and during the procedure to help the patient relax. Two or more TCA peels may be needed over several months to obtain the desired result, although mild TCA peels may be repeated more frequently. Protecting skin from the sun is important following a TCA peel.
Phenol is the strongest of the chemical solutions and produces a deep peel.
Recovery may be slow and complete healing may take several months. After a phenol peel, new skin may lose its ability to produce pigment. Skin be lighter in color, and will always have to be protected from the sun. Phenol may pose a special risk for patients with a history of heart disease. Protecting skin from the sun is also important following a phenol peel.