Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is a synthetic chemical compound derived from acetic acid. It is a colorless to light brown crystalline solid at room temperature and is highly soluble in water. TCA has a wide range of applications in various industries, including as a chemical intermediate, a laboratory reagent, and a key component in cosmetic and dermatological procedures, notably chemical peels.
Benefits of Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)
- Chemical Peels: TCA is used in dermatology and cosmetics for medium to deep chemical peels, helping to exfoliate the skin and stimulate cell regeneration.
- Protein Precipitation: It has strong protein-precipitating properties, useful in laboratory applications.
- Versatility: It can be used for various applications, from industrial to medical.
Common Uses of Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)
Chemical Peels
Trichloroacetic acid is widely used in chemical peels to remove the outer layers of skin, promoting new cell growth and treating various skin conditions. Common applications include:
- Medium-Depth Peels: To treat acne scars, pigmentation, and sun damage, typically at concentrations of 10–35%.
- Deep Peels: For more intensive treatments, generally at concentrations over 35%.
Laboratory Applications
TCA is used in laboratories for various purposes due to its protein-precipitating properties. Common applications include:
- Protein Isolation: To precipitate proteins from solutions, commonly used in biochemistry and molecular biology.
- Reagent: As a component in laboratory reagents for different experiments.
Industrial Applications
Trichloroacetic acid has some industrial applications, such as:
- Chemical Intermediate: Used in the synthesis of other chemical compounds.
- Corrosion Testing: To evaluate the resistance of metals to corrosion.
Product Specifications
- Chemical Formula: C2HCl3O2
- CAS No: 76-03-9
- Product Type: Organic acid
- Usage: Chemical peels, laboratory, industrial
- Purity: Typically 95–99%
- Shelf Life: Varies, depending on storage conditions
Storage and Handling
Store trichloroacetic acid in a cool, dry place, in a sealed container to prevent contamination and moisture absorption. It is corrosive, so it should be handled with care, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).