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Trichloroacetic acid

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

References