TCA (trichloroacetic acid) is commonly used in treating various skin conditions. It is also used in preparing the tattooed area for cover-ups or for pre-laser treatment. Tricloroacetic acid has also been medically proven to be effective in removing tattoos even those that are more than 10 years. In fact, in a study published in British Journal of Plastic Surgery, TCA has 85% success rate among the 670 patients who made use of the peel method. Aside from being successful, the study also established the cost-effectiveness of using TCA in removing tattoos.
Trichloroacetic acid is a water-like substance so do not be fooled by creams as they may be fake. This acid reacts with the skin by gradually fading and removing the ink particles in the skin. Pure TCA does not contain hydroquinone and if it does, the solution would not be that effective.
TCA reacts with the epidermal or the top layer of our skin and deeper into where the ink particles are. The controlled burning causes the ink particles to rise into the surface, fading the skin slowly with repeated peeling. While it involves skin peeling it is generally less painful than laser tattoo removal. Nevertheless, a slight burning sensation might be felt which can be addressed by splashing cold water in the area. You may also use a mixture of baking soda and water to relieve any discomfort that you are feeling.
TCA tattoo removal while effective requires patience as it will take months before a tattoo will be completely removed. It will take about a week or two before the skin will start to peel after applying the trichloroacetic acid solution. Peeling will occur for about two to three weeks. You have to wait until the peeling stops and for your new skin to heal a little before reapplying the solution to fade it more.
Also the effectiveness of is partly due to its non-color dependent capabilities. It can remove any tattoo regardless of its color. Compared to laser treatment where certain colors are difficult to remove with a laser. Lighter shades of red, blue and green as well as white, turquoise and yellow are some of these colors. TCA is also useful for fading tattoos with these ink colors before subjecting it to laser treatment. When pre-faded, lesser treatment will be then required which means lesser cost as well as lesser pain.