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

Introduction: 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.

Aim: 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.

Material and methods: 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.

Results: 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.

Conclusions: 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.