Peeling with 25% trichloroacetic acid in the treatment of facial skin photoaging

Introduction: The chemical peel consists of the application of chemical exfoliants that eliminate the layers of the skin so that it can regenerate with an improved texture and pigmentation. It is currently a valuable therapy in dermatology, however, few studies objectively evaluate its efficacy. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of peeling with 25% trichloroacetic acid in the treatment of facial skin rejuvenation. Method: An observational, analytical and longitudinal study was carried out in 250 patients from two hospitals (Surgical Clinic: “Hermanos Ameijeiras” and General Teaching: “Enrique Cabrera”), in the period between January 2010 and January 2020. Treatment It was applied monthly for 6 months. The final evaluation was carried out 3 months after the end of the treatment. Results: 238 women and 12 men were treated with an average age of 30.5 (± 8.4) years. After treatment, there were significant changes in the Glogau Photo Damage Scale (P=0.012), in the Lemperle Wrinkle Assessment Scale (P=0.016) and in the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (P=0.021). The adverse events found were burning, inflammation and scaling. The degree of satisfaction reported by the patients was good (4.4%) and very good (95.6%) (P=0.011). Conclusion: The 25% trichloroacetic acid peel proved to be effective and safe to reduce the signs of facial skin aging, associated with a high degree of patient satisfaction.