Deep Chemical Peel (TCA / Phenol-class)

Mid-to-deep chemical peeling with TCA-class acids for clients with significant photoaging, pigmentation, deeper acne scars, or moderate textural concerns. Performed only after consultation and a test patch — produces a 'frost' on application, requires 5–7 days of social downtime, and delivers improvement equivalent to 3–5 sessions of fractional CO₂ laser in a single treatment.

Deep chemical peeling is a doctor-only treatment that uses higher-concentration acids — primarily TCA (Trichloroacetic acid) at 20–35% — to penetrate beyond the epidermis into the papillary or upper reticular dermis. The depth of penetration produces a 'frost' (white discoloration) on application, signalling protein denaturation and triggering a controlled wound-healing cascade that re-organizes collagen and dermal architecture. Indications at Gen Z Clinic: • Solar damage / dyschromia — deep peel evens out years of UV-driven pigmentation • Moderate-depth acne scars — TCA-CROSS technique (Chemical Reconstruction Of Skin Scars) for ice-pick and narrow boxcar scars • Lentigines / age spots — single-pass TCA on individual lesions • Smoker's lines / perioral wrinkles — controlled depth peel for this stubborn area • Hypertrophic / keloid scar softening (test patch first) Protocol: • Pre-treatment: 4 weeks of doctor-prescribed prep (retinoid + hydroquinone + SPF) to thin the stratum corneum and reduce hyperpigmentation risk • Procedure: topical anaesthesia, cleansing, acid application in graduated layers under doctor supervision until the desired frost level is achieved • Sensation: hot stinging that peaks at 60–90 seconds and resolves; cold-air comfort cooling used throughout • Post: skin appears bronzed for 24 hours, then darkens, then peels in sheets across days 3–7 • Aftercare: occlusive recovery balm, gentle cleanser, no makeup for 5 days, SPF50 mandatory for 6 weeks minimum Deep peeling is a once-per-12-months treatment; peak result is visible at 60–90 days. Often paired with Frax-2 fractional CO₂ for combined topographic + tone correction. Not for: Fitzpatrick V–VI without test patch (high PIH risk), pregnancy, isotretinoin within 6 months, history of keloid, active herpes (prophylactic acyclovir prescribed).