TCA Peels 10% 15% 20% 40% = Skin Cancer?
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA), a chemical agent commonly used in cosmetic treatments such as chemical peels as well as for the removal of tattoos, skin tags, warts, and moles, is now subject to warning requirements under "Proposition 65".
TCA (CAS No. 76-03-9) was added to the list of chemicals known to cause cancer in the state of California on September 13, 2013.
This means that any exposure to this chemical in California requires a warning indicating that the chemical is “known to cause cancer in the state of California”.
TCA Cancer
TCA Carcinogenic
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer.
About one-third of all new cancer cases in Canada are skin cancer, and the rate continues to rise.
Source: canada.ca
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is a very aggressive acid, and accidental contact with healthy soft tissue during treatment causes severe chemical burns. When applied to the skin, TCA has proven to be extremely unpredictable, leading to hypertrophic scars and complete skin loss.
Source: Minimally Invasive Treatment of Class 4 Invasive Cervical Resorption with Internal Approach: A Case Series. 2017, Journal of Endodontics.
According to European Regulation No. 1272/2009 and the French Health Code, TCA or trichloroacetic acid is banned in Europe.
The French Medicines and Health Authority (ANSM) banned both the possession and use of TCA products for the skin in February 2019 due to their severely undesirable effects.
Source: ANSM publication from 25.02.2019.
An excellent alternative to TCA peels is the combination of pyruvic acid and lactic acid.
IDEALDERM Pyruvic Acid 40% + 10% Lactic Acid Peel
IDEALDERM Pyruvic Acid 15% + 3% Lactic Acid Peel
Benefits of the 40% Pyruvic Acid and 10% Lactic Acid Peel
1. Promotes cell regeneration
Pyruvic acid has a smaller molecular size than many other acids, allowing for deeper penetration into the skin. It promotes cell regeneration and helps remove dead skin cells, making the skin appear smoother and fresher.
*Source: Dermatology Therapy, 2021*
2. Moisturizing and gentle for sensitive skin
Lactic acid is known for its moisturizing properties and helps keep the skin hydrated while providing gentle exfoliation. This makes the peel particularly suitable for sensitive skin types compared to stronger acids like TCA.
*Source: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019*
3. Reduces hyperpigmentation
This peel is particularly effective in treating hyperpigmentation, including melasma and dark spots. The combination of pyruvic acid and lactic acid inhibits melanin production and contributes to skin brightening.
*Source: International Journal of Dermatology, 2020*
4. Fewer side effects
Compared to TCA peels, the pyruvic acid and lactic acid peel causes fewer side effects such as redness, swelling, and scabbing. It is gentler and typically results in a shorter recovery time.
*Source: Cosmetic Dermatology Journal, 2018*
5. Better control of peeling depth
Since pyruvic acid has more controllable depth effects on the skin, estheticians and dermatologists can better tailor the treatment to the skin type and needs of the patient.
*Source: Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2018*
6. Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects
Pyruvic acid also has antimicrobial effects and helps treat acne by reducing the growth of bacteria on the skin. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory properties, which is beneficial for sensitive or inflammation-prone skin.
*Source: Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2017*
Comparison with TCA Peel
The TCA peel (trichloroacetic acid) is known for its strong exfoliating effect, but it has some significant drawbacks:
1. Stronger side effects
TCA peels tend to cause stronger side effects, including redness, swelling, scabbing, and longer-lasting downtime. In comparison, the side effects of the pyruvic acid and lactic acid peel are milder, and the recovery time is shorter.
*Source: Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2019*
2. More difficult control of peeling depth
TCA is harder to control in depth, which can lead to undesirable outcomes, especially in patients with sensitive skin. Pyruvic acid offers more precise control of peeling depth, resulting in better and more predictable results.
*Source: Dermatologic Surgery, 2020*
3. Higher risk of post-peel hyperpigmentation
Especially in patients with darker skin tones, TCA can increase the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The peel with pyruvic acid and lactic acid reduces this risk as it is gentler and less irritating.
*Source: American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2020*
Why it is important to replace TCA with pyruvic acid and lactic acid peels
1. Gentler effect on the skin
TCA can be too aggressive for patients with sensitive skin or those prone to side effects. Pyruvic acid and lactic acid are gentler alternatives that still provide effective results in skin renewal.
*Source: Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2019*
2. Shorter recovery time
A shorter healing process and less downtime make the pyruvic acid and lactic acid peel more attractive to many patients. Unlike TCA, which often requires a week or longer to heal, the pyruvic acid peel allows for a quicker return to daily activities.
*Source: Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2017*
3. Better results for acne patients
Pyruvic acid has additional antimicrobial benefits that are advantageous in treating acne. In comparison, TCA does not have this property, making it less suitable for patients suffering from acne.
*Source: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018*
Overall, the pyruvic acid and lactic acid peel represents a safer and more effective alternative to the TCA peel, especially for sensitive skin or for patients prone to hyperpigmentation.
