Acne is a condition where your hair follicle's become plugged with oil, bacteria and dead skin cells. While you can apply acne-fighting treatments that may help you to clear these plugged areas over time, a chemical peel may provide a faster solution to encourage skin exfoliation. One example of an ingredient used in chemical peels is trichloroacetic acid, often referred to as TCA.
Significance
Trichloroacetic acid is used as a medium-strength chemical peel. Chemical peels that use alpha hydroxy acids is considered lighter while phenol peels are considered to be the deepest. Trichloroacetic acid is similar in strength to sulfuric acid, according to 3DChem.com. In addition to its uses as a chemical peel, trichloroacetic acid can be applied to the skin to remove tattoos and warts.
Function
Prior to applying a TCA peel, a dermatologist may recommend using a retinoid product to exfoliate the top layer of skin. This ensures the peel can penetrate more deeply. For the treatment itself, a dermatologist will cleanse the skin and apply the peel to areas where there are acne---including the face and chest, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. The peel is then applied to the face and is allowed to soak into the skin for a pre-determined amount of time, typically 30 minutes, according to DocShop.com. The peel is then removed and the recovery process begins.
Candidates
The best candidate for a trichloroacetic acid or TCA peel is an acne sufferer whose acne blemishes have begun to heal or who suffers from blemishes that are not inflamed. Because a trichloroacetic peel is able to peel away the top layer of skin and the material that may be plugging the pores, it is effective in treating whiteheads and blackheads.
Size
The amount of trichloroacetic acid used in your chemical peel depends upon the severity of your skin condition and your desired results, according to DocShop.com. If you wish to treat both acne breakouts and acne scarring, a peel of a higher concentration may be helpful. These peels range in strength from 15 percent concentration up to 50 percent.
Warning
You should discuss any potential side effects of a TCA peel with your dermatologist before undergoing the peel. Because a trichloroacetic acid peel is a medium-depth peel, your skin will blister, crack and then peel away to reveal new skin underneath that is clearer and features reduced incidences of acne blemishes. Redness, swelling and irritation also can occur. The skin may take up to two weeks to heal, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
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