Arkansas Esthetics Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive Test Preparation

In the context of esthetics and chemical peels, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is commonly used for various skin treatments, including exfoliation and treating skin conditions such as acne scars and wrinkles. The maximum percentage of TCA that estheticians are permitted to use is 30%. This level is effective for deeper exfoliation while still allowing estheticians to perform treatments safely and effectively within their scope of practice.

Using TCA at this concentration can help improve the skin's texture and appearance, but estheticians must also adhere to proper protocols, including skin assessment and preparation. Knowledge of the correct concentration is crucial, as higher concentrations of TCA are typically reserved for use by licensed medical professionals due to the potential for more significant skin reactions and complications.

Lower concentrations, such as 5% or 10%, are often used for surface peels, while the 20% concentration can be more effective for moderate skin concerns but still falls under the supervision of a licensed practitioner in many states. The 30% TCA concentration offers a balance of effectiveness while still remaining within the legal limits for estheticians, making it the appropriate choice for advanced skincare treatments in a licensed setting.