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Our providers understand the physical and psychological challenges that deep, atrophic acne scars like ice pick or boxcar scars can pose to our Houston patients. We’re proud to provide TCA CROSS, a highly effective treatment that targets the stubborn indentations caused by severe acne.1 TCA CROSS offers a powerful, minimally invasive solution to improve the skin’s surface and texture through chemical reconstruction. If you’re ready to reduce the appearance of your acne scars and boost collagen production for smoother-looking skin, TCA CROSS may be the ideal treatment option for you.
- What is TCA CROSS?
- Benefits TCA CROSS
- Preparing for TCA CROSS
- The TCA CROSS Treatment
- Recovery After TCA CROSS
- FAQs About TCA CROSS
What is TCA CROSS?
TCA Cross uses a high concentration of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) for the chemical reconstruction of skin scars (CROSS) in a dermatological procedure that improves the appearance of deep, atrophic acne scars. This treatment is particularly effective for ice pick scars, smaller boxcar scars, and other deep indentations in the skin.2 TCA CROSS stimulates new collagen production by applying the TCA directly into the scar tissue, encouraging the skin to heal from within. Unlike superficial chemical peels, TCA CROSS targets the base of deep scars, promoting long-term rejuvenation.
Benefits of TCA CROSS
- Effective for Deep Acne Scars: Ideal for treating ice pick and smaller boxcar scars that are resistant to other treatments like creams or dermal fillers
- Stimulates Collagen: Encourages collagen production, which helps repair scar tissue and improve skin texture over time
- Minimal Downtime: Most patients can return to their regular activities after a few days of healing
- Safe for Many Skin Types: The treatment can be adjusted to suit different skin types and scar depths
- Works Well with Other Treatments: Can be combined with microneedling, fractional laser treatments, radiofrequency, and fillers for optimal results
Preparing for TCA CROSS
Before undergoing the TCA CROSS treatment, it’s important to consult with one of our experienced dermatologists. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your skin type, the depth and type of acne scars, and discuss your treatment goals. To prepare for the procedure, avoid sun exposure and harsh skin care treatments such as chemical peels, IPL, or fractional laser treatments for at least two weeks. Additionally, your skin should be free of any active infections or inflammation.
The TCA CROSS Treatment
During the TCA CROSS procedure, your provider will apply a high concentration of trichloroacetic acid directly to the base of individual acne scars using a fine tipped applicator such as a toothpick. The TCA penetrates the skin and reaches the base of the scar, triggering a controlled injury to stimulate new collagen formation. The process typically takes 15-30 minutes, depending on the number of scars being treated.
Recovery After TCA CROSS
Following the TCA CROSS treatment, patients may notice a frosting effect on the scar surface, typically lasting up to 12 hours and is a normal part of the healing process. The skin around the treated areas will likely be red and sore for 24 to 48 hours. Within 2 to 3 days, small scabs will form over the treated scars, which will naturally fall off after 3 to 7 days. It’s important to avoid picking at the scabs and to apply sunscreen and any recommended skin care products daily to prevent hyperpigmentation. During this time, you can wash your face as usual and apply makeup if desired. Applying sunscreen daily to protect the healing skin and reduce the risk of discoloration is crucial. As the skin heals, you’ll notice a gradual improvement in texture and scar appearance.
FAQs About TCA CROSS
Is TCA CROSS safe for all skin types?
TCA CROSS can be safely performed on many skin types.3 Our dermatologists can advise if a test spot should be performed to ensure safety based on your skin type.
How many treatments will I need?
Most patients typically need 3 to 6 TCA CROSS sessions to achieve optimal results. These treatments can be spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart and completed over a 6-month period. Deeper scars may require additional treatments.
What is the downtime after TCA CROSS?
There is minimal downtime. You may experience redness and scabbing for about a week, but most patients can resume their normal activities within a few days.
Can TCA CROSS be combined with other treatments?
Absolutely. TCA CROSS can be part of a comprehensive acne scar treatment plan that includes microdermabrasion, microneedling, laser treatments like Fraxel skin resurfacing, or subcision.
Will TCA CROSS improve all types of acne scars?
TCA CROSS is particularly effective for treating depressions in the skin caused by atrophic scars, including ice pick and boxcar scars. For keloid scars, your dermatologist may recommend other treatment options, such as excision with laser resurfacing.
Schedule A Consultation
We are committed to helping patients in Houston, Texas, achieve smoother, clearer skin with advanced treatment options like TCA CROSS. Contact us today to book a consultation and discover how this powerful acne scar treatment can transform your skin.
1 Scars, Burns & Healing. A systematic review of treatments for acne scarring. Part 1: Non-energy-based techniques. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/2059513117695312. Accessed October 3, 2024.
2 Dermatologic Surgery. Therapeutic response of 70% trichloroacetic acid CROSS in atrophic acne scars. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25899884/. Accessed October 3, 2024.
3 Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery. An Assessment of the Efficacy and Safety of CROSS Technique with 100% TCA in the Management of Ice Pick Acne Scars. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2956965/. Accessed October 3, 2024.