How It Works

• Trichloroacetic acid causes cell turnover, which causes the skin to peel. The formation of new skin cells over minor imperfections may help to camouflage or erase them. Dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons use trichloroacetic acid to remove fine wrinkles and acne scars as well as to fade tattoos.
  
  

Use with Other Treatments

• Trichloroacetic acid is effective in fading many tattoos but may not remove them entirely. As a result, it is often used in conjunction with laser tattoo removal. Fading the tattoo first may result in fewer laser treatments and lower total cost.
  
  

Time Frame

• Within two to three weeks of application, the skin begins to peel. This peeling lasts another two to three weeks. Brightly colored tattoos should begin to fade after the second or third application, although it may take several applications to achieve maximum results.
  
  

Side Effects

• According to TattooHealth, 10 to 20 percent of people who use trichloroacetic acid experience blistering, pain or skin discoloration. In addition, trichloroacetic acid may cause hypopigmentation (loss of skin color) in individuals with dark skin.
  
  

Warnings

• Trichloroacetic acid is not recommended for use around the eyes, nose, lips or ears. It is also not recommended for use more often than every four to six weeks, as more frequent application increases the risk of severe skin peeling.