Cleaning, skin defatting

Prior to the application of TCA, a thorough cleaning is of vital importance for defatting the skin to allow for even penetration of the peeling solution. The skin is first cleaned with either Hibiclens or Septisol. Subsequently either acetone or alcohol is used to remove the residual oils and scale until the skin feels dry. 

Prior to the application of TCA, a thorough cleaning is mandatory for defatting the skin, thus allowing a better penetration of the peeling agent. 

In addition to chemicals included in the resin system, mould-releasing chemicals have also induced irritant contact dermatitis (Bourne and Milner 1963). Acetone is used to clean equipment in UP-resin industries. Acetone has a low irritant and sensitizing potential (Fisher 1986), but on repeated contact, acetone defats the skin. Acetone s irritant potential is due to its ability to disrupt the epidermal barrier (Fartasch 1997). It has been reported to be a contributing factor for irritant dermatitis (Bourne and Milner 1963 Tarvainen et al. 1993b Tarvainen 1994). Chlorinated hydrocarbon solvents such as methylene chloride and trichloroethane are used for cleaning purposes and are skin irritants (Midtgard and Knud-sen 1994). 

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