TCA Peels for Home Use?

I read your answer to a question about using TCA Peel at home. I am curious, have you come across any patients who have suffered serious chemical burns from using such a home product? A company out of New Zealand is selling 100% TCA for tattoo removal. Their warning says "If you have sensitive skin," dilute the product to 50%. I know someone who suffered really bad burns to her wrist after using the product and I am curious if you know if this is happening to other people.

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2 Doctor Answers | Asked by davishii in houston, Tx

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TCA Peels at home

Eeeek! TCA is an acid. It works by doing a controlled burn to your skin. Acids are confusing- which ones are strong? which ones aren't? It is not like glycolic or fruit acids, which you find in facial products at the grocery strore, which in general are gentle acids which don't penetrate far. TCA is different. Depending on the concentration and number of layers you do of TCA, you could burn through the full thickness of your skin (!!!), cause pigment changes, and scar. I do a lot of... more

Home base TCA peels

TCA (Trichloracetic Acid) is a very potent chemical. It has been used by physicians for facial skin rejuvenation for a long time. Over the years the safe levels have been determined to be 50% at the most. I do not use more than 35% in my practice. The risk of change in color (hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation) increases dramatically once you go up to 50%. In essence you should not use this product on your own. You are better off consulting with a physician who is comfortable using this... more