
Struggling with dull skin, stubborn dark spots, or fine lines that won’t fade? A trichloroacetic acid (TCA) chemical peel may be the reset your skin needs.
At Lombardo Plastic Surgery, Dr. Maria Lombardo offers advanced TCA chemical peels designed to deliver noticeable, lasting results. With extensive medical training and a strong track record in skin rejuvenation, she provides trusted, professional surgical and non-surgical treatments in Palm Springs.
What Is a TCA Chemical Peel?
Chemical peels using trichloroacetic acid work by removing the skin’s surface layer. Superficial peels act as a skin exfoliator, stimulating cell renewal and turnover and reducing sun damage and wrinkles.
How Chemical Peels Work
By peeling away the top layer of skin, the appearance of dark spots such as age spots, sunspots, and liver spots, as well as fine lines, blemishes, wrinkles, and scars, can be reduced. The new skin that grows after the peel is tighter, fresher, smoother, and more evenly toned. TCA chemical peels are a tried-and-true skin resurfacing technique that delivers noticeable results without surgery.
Chemical Peel Strengths
TCA chemical peels vary in strength. The stronger the peel is, the more it affects the deeper layers of your skin. Peels with a TCA level of 10 to 30 percent are considered superficial. Peels with a TCA level of 30-40 percent are considered medium. A peel with a TCA level of 50 percent or more is a deep peel.
Candidates for Chemical Peels
Chemical peels using TCA are appropriate for anyone who wants to:
- Combat signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes and mouth
- Treat acne, acne scars, and other blemishes
- Treat hyperpigmentation, superficial melasma, and age spots
TCA chemical peels are not for patients who are currently pregnant or nursing. If you currently have inflamed acne or are taking acne medication, you may not be a viable candidate for a TCA chemical peel.
The TCA Chemical Peel Procedure
Trichloroacetic acid skin resurfacing provides medium-depth, medical-grade results. The process works by applying layers of mild acids to your face. The skin is cleaned first, and the TCA solution is applied. The solution will be left on your skin until it penetrates to the correct depth. A layer of white “frosting” appears for about 10 minutes.
How Long Is The TCA Chemical Peel Procedure?
The duration of each type of peel may be similar, but the effects differ due to the depth of tissue affected. A full-face peel may take approximately half an hour to complete. Your appointment may take 45 minutes to an hour, allowing for enough time to cleanse your skin before your peel and apply a soothing moisturizer or ointment afterward.
TCA Chemical Peel Recovery
Most TCA peels are considered “medium peels.” This means that the skin will crust, flake, and slough off after the procedure. The process can take 3 to 7 days, but it’s wise to plan for the longer end of that range.
As the old skin cells shed, the skin beneath may appear very pink. This can take up to a week to resolve, extending the total healing time to about 2 weeks. You can resume most of your normal activities after about 7 to 10 days, at which point your skin’s tone and texture should look normal.
During your initial days of recovery, when the skin is crusting and flaking, you may want to take an over-the-counter pain reliever to alleviate any soreness or tenderness. It is important to follow all aftercare instructions provided by Dr. Lombardo.
Why Choose Lombardo Plastic Surgery for a Chemical Peel in Palm Springs, CA?

Choosing Lombardo Plastic Surgery for a chemical peel in Palm Springs means trusting your skin to a provider who blends science with artistry. Dr. Maria Lombardo, DO, FACOS, brings a unique background in fine arts and medicine, allowing her to approach skin rejuvenation with a refined, aesthetic eye.
As a Board Certified General Surgeon, diplomate of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and fellowship-trained cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Lombardo offers advanced expertise in both surgical and non-surgical treatments. With years of experience serving the Palm Springs community and leadership as President of the California Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, she delivers thoughtful, personalized care focused on natural-looking results.
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Contact Lombardo Cosmetic Surgery in Rancho Mirage today at (760) 610-8990 to learn more about chemical peels and find out if you’re a good candidate.
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