What classification is TCA considered in terms of chemical peels?

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is classified as a medium-depth peel due to its ability to penetrate the skin more deeply than light peels but not as deeply as deep peels. Medium-depth peels are typically used to treat a variety of skin concerns, such as wrinkles, acne scars, and pigmentation issues.

TCA works by removing the outer layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production, leading to significant improvements in skin texture and tone. The depth of penetration with TCA allows it to achieve results that address moderately severe skin issues, making it suitable for a range of different skin types.

Light peels, on the other hand, usually involve milder acids, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and only affect the outermost layers of the skin. Deep peels, which often use stronger agents like phenol, penetrate more deeply and are used for more severe skin problems, resulting in longer recovery times. Surface peels are confined to the very top layer of the skin and do not provide the same level of tissue remodeling that medium-depth peels like TCA can offer. This distinction in the depth of action and the results produced is what firmly places TCA in the medium-depth peel category.