The Efficacy of Various Degreasing Agents Used in Trichloroacetic Acid Peels

    November 1994 in “ The Journal of Dermatologic Surgery and Oncology ”
    Johann M. Peikert, NANCY A. KRYWONIS, Ellen B. Rest, Christopher B. Zachary
    TLDR Acetone is not more effective than other degreasers and is more flammable.
    The study aimed to evaluate the impact of different degreasing agents on the efficacy of trichloroacetic acid peels, particularly in patients with androgenetic alopecia and actinic keratoses of the scalp. Six patients were treated with 35% trichloroacetic acid, and their scalps were divided into sections degreased with acetone, rubbing alcohol, Freon Skin Degreaser, or Hibiclens. The results indicated that acetone was not superior to the other agents. Additionally, acetone's lower flashpoint makes it more flammable and hazardous, suggesting that alternative degreasers could reduce this risk in the workplace.
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