The efficacy of various degreasing agents used in trichloroacetic acid peels.

BACKGROUND

Adequate preparation of the skin is necessary for a successful chemical peel. Little detailed attention has been given to the effect of degreasing on the efficacy of the peel.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the influence of degreasers on the peel, compare their flammabilities, and discuss alternatives.

METHODS

Six patients with androgenetic alopecia and widespread actinic keratoses of the scalp were treated with 35% trichloroacetic acid. Scalps were divided into sections and degreased with acetone, rubbing alcohol, Freon Skin Degreaser, or Hibiclens. The influence of these degreasers on trichloroacetic acid peels was assessed by clinical and histologic examination.

CONCLUSION

Acetone was not found to be superior to the other agents. Furthermore, the flashpoint of acetone is markedly lower than the others, making it more flammable and hazardous in the workplace. The use of alternative degreasers may lessen or eliminate this hazard.