What Is Ammonium Trichloroacetate?
Ammonium trichloroacetate is a salt formed when trichloroacetic acid reacts with ammonia. The result is a white to off-white powder that dissolves well in water, making it easy to blend into creams and gels. Chemically, the molecule carries three chlorine atoms attached to an acetic acid backbone, which gives it a strong ability to break down the bonds that hold dead skin cells together.
Trichloroacetic acid itself has been used by dermatologists for controlled skin peels since the mid-1900s. As cosmetic chemists looked for gentler options to give a similar smoothing effect, they began turning the acid into its ammonium salt. This tweak lessens the sting yet keeps the surface-renewing power, allowing the ingredient to move from clinic treatments into everyday skin care.
Manufacturers typically produce ammonium trichloroacetate in a closed reactor where measured amounts of trichloroacetic acid and aqueous ammonia are mixed under cooling. The reaction is simple, yields few by-products and produces a high-purity powder that is then dried and milled.
You will most often find ammonium trichloroacetate in rinse-off masks, resurfacing serums, anti-aging lotions and spot treatments aimed at rough or dull patches. Because it works on the outermost layer of skin, formulators pair it with soothing agents like aloe or panthenol to keep the product comfortable for home use.
Ammonium Trichloroacetate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin care formulas this ingredient serves one main purpose that can make a visible difference in texture and tone.
Exfoliating: ammonium trichloroacetate loosens the glue-like bonds between dead surface cells so they can be shed more easily. Regular, gentle removal of these cells helps smooth rough patches, brighten a dull complexion and allow follow-up products to sink in better.
Who Can Use Ammonium Trichloroacetate
This exfoliant suits most normal, combination and oily skin types that can handle active resurfacing without much irritation. Dry or mature skin can also benefit if the formula includes hydrating buffers, although those with very sensitive or compromised skin barriers may find it too stimulating because even its gentler salt form is still an acid-derived ingredient.
Ammonium trichloroacetate is made synthetically from simple chemical feedstocks, so no animal material is involved at any stage. That makes it acceptable for vegetarians and vegans who avoid ingredients of animal origin.
There is little published data on use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and absorption through intact skin is thought to be minimal. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a doctor before adding products that contain active exfoliants.
Because it thins the topmost layer of skin, the ingredient can heighten photosensitivity. Daily broad spectrum sunscreen and limited direct sun exposure are strongly advised while using it.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical ammonium trichloroacetate differ from person to person. The points below outline potential issues but most people experience none of them when the product is well formulated and used as directed.
- Stinging or burning on application especially on freshly shaved or abraded skin
- Redness or flushing that fades within a few hours but may linger if the product is left on too long
- Dryness or flaking as the outer skin layers shed more quickly than usual
- Increased sun sensitivity which can raise the risk of sunburn without adequate UV protection
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in deeper skin tones if irritation becomes excessive
- Worsening irritation when layered with other strong actives like retinoids, high-strength AHAs, BHAs or benzoyl peroxide
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as swelling, itching or rash
If any of these effects occur and do not settle quickly after rinsing or discontinuing use, stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0-1 (very low risk)
This ingredient is a small water soluble salt with no oily or waxy components, so it rinses away cleanly instead of forming the kind of film that can trap sebum or debris. Because it exfoliates at the surface and does not linger inside follicles, the chance of blocked pores is minimal.
For that reason it is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
One thing to keep in mind is that overuse can overstimulate skin, sometimes leading to rebound oiliness that may indirectly spark blemishes. Using the product as directed and pairing it with calming moisturizers keeps this risk low.
Summary
Ammonium trichloroacetate is a water friendly exfoliant that loosens the bonds holding dead cells to the skin’s surface. By helping those cells shed it smooths rough texture, brightens a dull complexion and lets follow up products penetrate more effectively.
Compared with better known acids like glycolic or salicylic, this ingredient is still something of an insider pick, mostly found in targeted resurfacing serums, masks and spot treatments rather than everyday moisturizers.
It scores well on safety when formulas include soothing buffers and when users follow the label directions. Most people experience only mild, short lived tingling or dryness and it carries very little risk of clogging pores or causing true allergy. As with any new active it is best to patch test first and introduce it gradually to make sure your skin stays comfortable.