TCA chemical peel as facial anti-aging therapy for postmenopausal women: a randomised clinical study

A randomised controlled clinical trial involving a novel trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel was performed. The experimental group, the placebo group, the staff administering treatments, the persons evaluating intervention results, and the statistical analyst were all blinded.

To assess the efficacy of a novel TCA peel containing urea peroxide 5%, coenzyme Q10 5%, and kojic acid 10% as anti-aging skin therapy for postmenopausal women.

Forty-six postmenopausal women at a mean age of 60.63 ±2.6 years were equally and randomly divided into an experimental group (EG; n = 23) and a control group (CG; n = 23), which received facial skin treatments with a TCA peel and a placebo solution, respectively. Treatment sessions were performed once weekly for 4 consecutive weeks. Between the sessions, the participants were required to apply the same post-peel cream in the morning and evening. Skin-aging parameters - hydration, elasticity, and sebum levels - were measured using the MC 750 B2 (Courage + Khazaka electronic GmbH, Cologne, Germany), wrinkle appearance was assessed based on photographs taken with the Fujifilm XT-1 camera, and the Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale and skin aesthetic improvement was rated using the Patient's Aesthetic Improvement Scale and the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale. All assessments were carried out pre- and post-intervention and at months 1 and 3 of follow-up.

Skin hydration and participants' satisfaction with treatment results measured post-treatment and at month 3 of follow-up were greater in the EG than in the CG.

The TCA chemical peel improved facial skin hydration in postmenopausal women, but not skin elasticity. The results of the treatments were rated by the participants as satisfying.Trial Registration no: ISRCTN41899475; doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN41899475.