We know that penetration of the TCA depends on the
way it is applied. Application with a brush is always lighter than application with
a pad.
A brush should not be used for applying Easy TCA, in
order to avoid superficial penetration; however, a pad is not advisable either
because, apart from the fact that moistening a pad uses up a lot of acid solution, the pad
has an abrasive potential that can remove a few layers of corneocytes and thus makes the
acid solution penetrate too deeply, with more an increased risk of side-effects.
Mini-wipes present the same disadvantages.
We therefore use cotton buds. There are many
types of these, large and small. the large cotton buds are not entirely suitable, for they
consume a great deal of product and are too long for making precise movements. The small
cotton buds, of the type used for ear-care, may be made of wood or plastic.
Wood is not elastic enough, strong enough and does
not allow a good pressure to be exerted. Plastic does have the required elasticity, but
not enough strength; so, in the end, the answer is to use two plastic cotton buds
at the same time for applying the Easy TCA solution.
Some plastic cotton buds are too fine (Chinese
model) and three have to be used together to prevent them from twisting during application
of the acid.