TCA is the abbreviation for trichloroacetic acid, a chemical commonly used in a wide range of chemical peels. TCA peels use a type of acid that can be customized to a variety of applications and strengths, from a quick lunch-break treatment to a complete restart for your skin.
“Trichloroacetic acid is a derivative of acetic acid (vinegar) and is used to remove the top layer of cells for a smoother, clearer complexion,” explains Dr. Rhonda Q. Klein, MD, MPH, FAAD, of Modern Dermatology in Westport, CT.