DIY At-Home Chemical Peel (13% TCA)

Using the Platinum Skin Care 13% TCA Peel (select the 13% option)

This is what worked for me. Use at your own risk.

1. Prep (2–3 Days Before)

- Stop using retinol, exfoliants, and acids.

- Cleanse with a gentle, non-active cleanser only.

- Keep your skin moisturized and hydrated so your barrier is healthy going in.

- Optional: Do a patch test on your jawline to check sensitivity.

2. What You’ll Need

- Platinum Skin Care 13% TCA Peel

- Cotton pads

- 70% isopropyl alcohol

- Baking soda

- Vaseline

- Gentle cleanser

- Moisturizer (this is my fav)

- SPF 30+ (this one helps with dark spots)

3. The Peel (Application)

1. Clean your face with a gentle cleanser and pat completely dry.

2. Wipe down with 70% isopropyl alcohol to remove oil.

3. Apply a thin layer of Vaseline around the eyes, nostrils, and lips — or anywhere you don’t

want the peel to migrate.

4. Apply the peel directly onto a cotton pad.

5. Start with the forehead, then move to cheeks, chin, and nose — avoiding eyes, lips, and nostrils.

6. Set a timer for 1–2 minutes for your first layer.

7. If it’s not unbearable, you can add another layer after the first one dries
(I added 3 — proceed with caution).

8. If it burns unbearably, neutralize immediately.

9. Wash off with cool water and a gentle soap or cleanser.

10. Mix baking soda + water into a paste and glob it on to neutralize any remaining acid.

11. Rinse off gently and pat dry.

4. Aftercare

- Apply moisturizer right away and reapply often — but don’t oversaturate the skin. (Weleda

Skin Food is my favorite.)

- Don’t pick or scratch peeling skin — let it shed naturally.

- Avoid direct sun exposure for 7–10 days.

- Skip exfoliants and makeup for 5–7 days.

- Always wear SPF 30+ daily (non-negotiable).

- Stay hydrated and use cooling or moisturizing face masks to calm your skin and help resist

the urge to pick. (Loops masks are my go-to.)

- You’ll usually start to peel around day 3–4 and see new skin by day 7–10.

5. Pro Tips

- Stick to one peel every 4–6 months.

- If it burns unbearably, neutralize immediately.

- Stay hydrated and use face masks to soothe and protect your healing skin.


Disclaimer: I’m not a dermatologist — this is just what worked for me. Chemical peels can be risky, so patch test first, do your homework, and proceed at your own discretion.

Created by Jenny Czinder | @hookersandpopcorn | www.hookersandpopcorn.com