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Disinfectant by-product
Trichloroacetic acid
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is a synthetic chemical primarily used in chemical peels and as a chemical reagent. It is not used as a food ingredient and is known for its corrosive and caustic properties. In dermatological applications, it requires careful handling and professional administration due to skin irritation and chemical burn risks. It is hazardous if ingested, inhaled, or comes into contact with skin in high concentrations.
Tracked contaminantUpdated Nov 29, 2023
Health score-5.0
-5Very bad5
Water guidelines
- Legal limit
- Not specified
- Health guideline
- 0.0001 mg/L
Food and supplement guidelines
- Legal limit
- Not specified
- Health guideline
- Not specified
Risks
Corrosive, skin irritation, chemical burns, toxic if ingested or inhaled, environmental hazard
Benefits
Used medically for controlled skin peeling and tattoo removal