Trichloroacetic Acid — Allergy Risk & Safety Profile
INCI: TRICHLOROACETIC ACID
Key Facts
- CAS Number
- 76-03-9
- Category
- active
- Risk Level
- high
- Common Allergen
- No
- Found In
- professional peel
Is Trichloroacetic Acid safe in cosmetics?
Trichloroacetic Acid is rated high risk in cosmetic products. It is not classified as a common allergen and is generally well-tolerated by most skin types. Commonly found in professional peel.
What is Trichloroacetic Acid?
Strong chemical peel agent used by professionals. Not for at-home use.
Allergy & Safety Information
Trichloroacetic Acid is classified as a high-risk ingredient. Individuals with sensitive skin or a history of contact allergies should avoid products containing this ingredient.
This ingredient is classified as high risk from an allergenicity perspective. It is a recognised cause of allergic contact dermatitis with a relatively high sensitisation rate in patch-tested populations. People with a history of skin reactions to cosmetics, or with conditions such as eczema or sensitive skin, should exercise particular caution.
About Active Ingredient Ingredients
Active ingredients are formulated to produce a specific skin benefit — exfoliation, brightening, anti-ageing, or acne treatment. They work by interacting directly with skin biology, which also means they carry higher irritation potential than passive ingredients like emollients or thickeners.
Relevance for Trichloroacetic Acid: Actives often require an adjustment period during which temporary redness, dryness, or sensitivity is normal. However, persistent reactions after 4–6 weeks of use, or reactions that worsen rather than improve, suggest true intolerance. Introduce only one active at a time to identify the cause of any reaction.
How to Identify Trichloroacetic Acid in Products
Cosmetic ingredients are listed by their INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name in descending order of concentration. To check whether a product contains Trichloroacetic Acid, scan the ingredient list for its INCI name exactly as it appears above. Ingredients present at 1% or less may appear in any order after the 1% threshold.
Product types to prioritise checking: Professional peel. These product categories are the most common sources of Trichloroacetic Acid exposure based on formulation data.
Not sure if your products contain Trichloroacetic Acid? Paste the ingredient list into the free ingredient checker to scan for Trichloroacetic Acid and other allergens automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Trichloroacetic Acid safe for sensitive skin?
Trichloroacetic Acid is a known allergen and is not recommended for sensitive skin.
What products contain Trichloroacetic Acid?
Trichloroacetic Acid is commonly found in professional peel.
What does Trichloroacetic Acid do in cosmetics?
Trichloroacetic Acid functions as a active in formulations.
Related Guides
Anti-Aging for Sensitive Skin
The safest actives for sensitive skin and how to use them.
How to Read Ingredient Labels
Decode INCI names and find hidden allergens in your products.
Find Your Skin Allergy Trigger
Step-by-step elimination method to identify your trigger.
Contact Dermatitis Guide
Symptoms, causes, patch testing, and treatment options.
Is Trichloroacetic Acid causing YOUR skin reactions?
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