PCA SKIN® Chemical Peel Portfolio

For more than 30 years, PCA SKIN^® has been a trusted professional skincare industry leader and innovator. We take pride in formulating highly effective professional treatments that correct patients’ most bothersome skin concerns to transform skin health and improve people’s lives.

Trusted by the Experts

Our chemical peel formulations use the latest, most scientifically-advanced ingredient profiles for improved stability, delivery, and effective peeling agents for powerful patient results: Lactic acid, Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) Salicylic acid, Resorcinol, Retinoids. The wide range of professional treatments PCA SKIN^® provides dramatic results without sacrificing safety and efficacy.

Benefits of PCA SKIN^® Chemical Peels

1. Self-neutralizing formulas – Our peel formulations self-neutralize when applied to the skin to maintain a safe pH balance for less irritation.
2. Layer and leave-on method – PCA SKIN^® peels adhere to a layer and leave-on technique to provide the clinician with complete control over the strength and depth of treatment.
3. Advanced ingredient profiles – Our peels are formulated with the essential ratio of exfoliating acids and antioxidants to enhance stability and delivery for a powerful skin renewal experience.

What is trichloroacetic acid (TCA)?

TCA is a superficial and medium-depth peeling agent that is used in many concentrations. A chemical cauterant that causes protein denaturation and improves pigmentation in photodamaged skin. It is most commonly used as a superficial and medium-depth peeling agent to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Think of it like T is for texture. It breaks down proteins to exfoliate the skin, allowing fresh, healthy cells to rise to the surface.

PCA SKIN^® TCA chemical peels:

1. Feature the therapeutic levels of TCA and lactic acid (6% – 24%)
2. Have an enhanced ratio of ingredients for deeper product penetrations.
3. Include powerful antioxidants to fight free radical damage during and after a treatment.

The Jessner’s peeling solution consists of 14% each of lactic acid, salicylic acid, and resorcinol blended in an alcohol base and is considered a superficial chemical peeling agent. This combination of ingredients was first documented in the JAMA in 1941 by Joseph Eller, M.D. and Shirley Wolff. Max Jessner popularized the 14% standard available today in the early 1950’s. The first modified and enhanced Jessner’s Peel was developed and made available to physicians in 1993 by Margaret Ancira (Founder of PCA SKIN^®). Two of the modified and enhanced versions contain no resorcinol, reducing the risk of toxicity, sensitivity and allergies, as well as making it more suitable to treat darker skin types. The addition of citric and kojic acids, and hydroquinone (2%) increases the benefits of the traditional exfoliating method.

What are alpha and beta hydroxy acids?

When used together, alpha and beta hydroxy acids help increase cell turnover, boost exfoliation, and breakdown surface impaction for smoother, younger-looking skin.

Who can benefit from Jessner’s chemical peels?

Our Jessner’s chemical peels contain lactic acid and salicylic acid to target acne and discoloration for a clear, more even complexion. These peels are especially beneficial for oily skin. These blends combine AHA and BHA with kojic acid, (with or without hydroquinone) with a modified Jessner’s solution to address uneven skin tone from sun damage and hormonal changes. AHA and melanogenesis inhibitors suppress the chain reaction responsible for the creation of new melanin. Resorcinol and hyroquinone are optional in these formulas.

What are retinoids?

Retinoids are one type of vitamin A; carotenoids being the other. Retinoic acid, retinol, retinyl palmitate, and retinaldehyde are all considered retinoids. All have similar functions but different levels of irritancy. If formulated correctly, products containing retinoids are able to increase cell turnover, stimulate collagen and elatin production, inhibit melanogenesis, and increase skinhydration without irritation. The only retinoid capable of binding with the retinoic acid receptor (RAR) is retinoic acid; however, this form can be irritating and not suitable for all patients. Fortunately, other retinoids, such as retinol and retinyl palmitate are converted to retinoic acid when applied topically and deliver similar benefits without the risks of inflammation.

Who can benefit from retinoid treatments?

Our retinol chemical peels help lift pigmentation, reduce impaction in acne patients, and boost cellular turnover to minimize signs of aging.

PCA SKIN^®

1. Deliver a smooth and pleasant application experience
2. Are effective for a variety of skin types and conditions
3. Produce dramatic, visible exfoliation for improved skin tone and texture.