Don’t be fooled by the comparatively low percentage on this Serum compared to other serums; 15% Trichloroacetic Acid is still a deep chemical peel and as such, it is very potent and should be diluted with distilled water before use and only left on the skin for a few minutes. It is, however, very effective when used multiple times a month or even bi-weekly, so be assured that even if you over-dilute it, you will still see results in a relatively short time period.
This Serum is best for those with normal to sensitive skin or those with generally good skin but with some problem areas, such as acne scars, brown spots or other hyperpigmentation, and fine wrinkles on areas such as the forehead. Even though I frequently use products on the delicate eye skin area that are not intended for use around the eye, I would never use this product around the eyes because the eye area skin is just too thin to do so. This serum is best used on tougher skin areas such as the forehead or on stretch marks on the legs.
While it can eventually treat scars, moles, warts, and skin tags; it will take multiple treatments and the 45% Trichloroacetic Acid made by the same company will work faster. That being said, anything that can treat a wart, mole, or skin tag is strong, and should be applied accordingly. ALWAYS read all the directions.
RESULTS
What I like best about the 15% Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) is it creates a very even appearance to the skin in both the texture and tone. It reduces the appearance of rough patches, wrinkles, and scars from teenage acne, childhood chicken pox scars, as well as lighten brown age spots.
I also liked the results so far on the texture and appearance of my stretch marks, especially those on the upper outer thighs. They appear more subtle, and while they are not invisible, the texture of that skin seems much more normal.
Do note that this is a deep peel, which is different than a glycolic peel or dermabrasion in that skin will be dry, flake and peel for several days after use. If the area of application is on your face, plan accordingly to since there will be too much peeling to conceal it with makeup. It will be a good week until your skin stops peeling and then new, softer skin appears. Apply an emollient moisturizer daily, and make sure to wear sunscreen.
NO EXCESSIVELY IRRITATING CHEMICALS
When using a more potent product such as this TCA serum, there is always a concern of excess irritation to the skin due to chemical additives intended to preserve the active ingredients. The entire I-Max line of skin care products uses natural preservatives instead of chemical ones, which is excellent for more sensitive skins. The serum is preserved naturally using a pretty ingenious idea of a natural Vitamin “charge” of Vitamin B as a preservative. When you open the bottle for the first time, there is a fizzy reaction similar to when a carbonated beverage such as a soda or seltzer water bottle is opened. That charge keeps the product preservative free. To retain freshness, there is a special inverted dropper to dispense each drop.
What I especially like about the I-Max TCA is there are no excessive irritants to the skin because it uses natural preservatives instead of chemical ones. This is done with a natural Vitamin “charge” that can be seen when opening the bottle; there is a fizzy reaction when some of the carbonated charge is released.
CONCLUSION: A powerful peel that can make skin appear even, soft, and improve texture to look younger and smoother. Works on scars, acne marks, wrinkles and rough patches of skin, especially on the forehead. Suitable for stretch marks. Remember to dilute the product with distilled water before use.
Find it atMax Life USA
I received this product in exchange for my honest and unbiased review. If you have any questions about my experience with it, leave it in the comments section below, and I’ll do my best to answer it!
Baline says
It’s cool that it doesn’t have preservatives.
Style Chicks says
That is one of my favorite things about the brand. And every product I have tried has been so effective!
Emmie says
I had a high percentage TCA peel at a medi-spa and I was peeling forever! It worked great though – took years off my face. I’d like to try a lower percentage one at home.
Style Chicks says
I think the 15% is nice for areas that need a little touch up here and there. But always do a patch test even if you’ve had success with TCA in the past, of course.