From Dr. Bottiglione, Dermatologist & Founder of Dermatologist's Choice
Welcome! I’m thrilled you’ve chosen to begin your skincare journey with Dermatologist’s Choice — the brand I founded more than 40 years ago to give patients dermatologist-level results at home. Our products feature professional-strength, non-neutralized TCA (trichloroacetic acid) and glycolic acid, two of the most effective ingredients I’ve used throughout my career to help patients achieve smoother, clearer, and younger-looking skin.
If you’re new to dermatologist-grade acids, here are my best tips to get started safely and confidently — and to see your best results.
1. Start Slow and Build Up
Both TCA and glycolic acid are powerful exfoliating acids. They dissolve dead skin cells, clear out pores, and stimulate collagen renewal. When introducing these products, begin slowly:
Start with every 2–3 nights using the pH Balanced TCA Toning Pads, Glycolic TCA Peel Pads, Facial Enhancement Cream, and Ultra Anti-Aging Cream. If you have sensitive skin don't use all the products in one night at first.
Gradually increase to nightly use as your skin adjusts. If you feel the Trustworthy Tingle, that's a good sign it is working!
If you’re using a TCA Peel Rollerball, limit to once every 3-4 weeks until your skin builds tolerance. It's possible to use it more often to spot treat acne breakouts.
Don't use products the night before a wedding or event. It's best to start acid treatments at least 7 days before a special occasion.
If you desire faster results then graduate to a stronger acid product or layer acid treatments for a deeper treatment.
Can't feel the Trustworthy Tingle? Try a stronger acid product.
🩺 Dr. B’s tip: A little redness or mild tingling is normal — it means the acids are working to renew your skin. Apply a plain moisturizer to soothe the skin.
2. Always Apply to Clean, Dry Skin
For best results, apply glycolic or TCA products after cleansing with the pH Balanced Cleanser and drying your skin completely. This ensures the acid penetrates evenly without dilution.
Follow with a moisturizer, such as the Ultimate Restorative Hydrating Complex, to soothe and hydrate the skin barrier. For irritated and dry skin use the Pre Bath Oil daily before showering and bathing.
3. Use the Right Formula for Your Skin Goals
Each Dermatologist’s Choice acid product has a specific purpose:
pH Balanced Cleanser – gentle daily cleansing and toning
Glycolic TCA Peel Pads – medium-strength resurfacing to smooth texture, wrinkles, and reduce acne
pH Balanced TCA Toning Pads - mild-strength daily toning and resurfacing cleansing pad to brighten and even skin tone
Ultra Anti-Aging Cream - medium-strength exfoliating cream, similar but less irritating then prescription-grade tretinoin to help reduce acne, wrinkles, dark spots
Facial Enhancement Cream – mild-strength glycolic exfoliating cream for daily wrinkle-smoothing and firming treatment. Recommended for rosacea
TCA Advanced Peel Rollerball – strongest TCA acid for deep rejuvenation for dark spots, acne, wrinkles, scars, and mature skin
Deep Cleansing Facial Mask – mild weekly facial detoxifying treatment to purify pores and refresh dull skin
Tip: Combine formulas gradually — start with one acid product and layer in others as your skin strengthens a tolerance to glycolic and TCA. If you desire faster results then graduate to a stronger acid product or layer acid treatments for a deeper treatment.
4. Protect Your Skin After Treatments
After using acids, keep your skin hydrated and protected. Moisturizers like the Pre Bath Oil or Ultimate Restorative Hydrating Complex help the skin to reduce redness after acid treatments and maintain balance.
And always wear broad-spectrum SPF during the day.
5. Expect Results — and Be Consistent
Over the first few weeks, you may notice smoother texture and a brighter tone. With consistent use, fine lines soften, pores appear smaller, and discoloration fades.
Patience is key — real skin renewal happens over time as new cells replace old ones.
If you desire faster results then graduate to a stronger acid product or layer acid treatments for a deeper treatment.
Dr. B’s Final Word
“TCA and glycolic acid are truly transformative ingredients. I’ve used them for decades to help patients restore and maintain healthy, glowing skin. When used consistently and correctly, they can rejuvenate your skin like no other ingredient can.”
MEET THE EXPERT
Disclaimer: The skincare articles on Dermatologist’s Choice are intended for educational purposes, providing insights into specific ingredients and skincare topics. Our content is designed to be informative, not to serve as medical advice. Any mention of patient experiences is purely for informational purposes and should not be interpreted as a treatment recommendation. Additionally, any Dermatologist’s Choice products referenced in these articles are formulated for cosmetic use only and are not intended to replace professional medical advice or pharmaceutical treatments. Always consult a physician for personalized skincare recommendations.
