To first understand the TCA peel and how it defers from other skin peels we must first discuss what a chemical peel is.
What really is a chemical peel? A chemical peel is a controlled caustic solution applied to the skin which will result in the breaking of cellular bonds in the top layers of the skin. This will result in peeling and new skin underneath being uncovered. This will give the skin a fresh, rejuvenated look.
Some skin peels are more superficial than others. A glycolic or lactic or fruit peel tend to be very light or weak and are considered to be more superficial. Light peels tend to have minor results that are not long lasting. Medium to deep peels like the TCA peel, Obagi Blue Peel and Phenol peel can go much deeper and produce astounding results. The Phenol peel is rarely used anymore due to its toxicity. The Obagi Blue Peel is just a brand name TCA peel and is a cream mixture with a blue green dye in it that dyes the face to indicate where it has and has not been applied. The Obagi Blue Peel still requires the addition of TCA from a TCA peel to make it active.