TCA CROSS For Acne Scarring

What is TCA? 

TCA is an abbreviation for trichloroacetic acid, which is typically used in low concentration for Chemical Reconstruction Of Skin Scars (CROSS), overall improvement of scars, & skin ageing.  

How does it work?  

The TCA CROSS procedure involves depositing small amounts of TCA into the surface of the atrophic scar. This causes a local inflammatory reaction leading to the formation of new collagen fibres. The aim is to improve the appearance of the scar by increasing collagen reflectance & reducing shadows cast over scar depressions.  

TCA CROSS is inexpensive, safe, efficient & is useful in the following types of atrophic scar: 

• Boxcar acne scar
• Rolling acne scars 
• Ice-pick acne scars.  

TCA CROSS is straightforward to perform & can be undertaken in a matter of minutes, depending on the number of scars to be treated. It is generally repeated on several occasions at 2 to 4-week intervals.  

Postcare Advisory: Frosting of the scar surface could last up to 12 hours. The skin around the treated sites can be red & sore for 24 to 48 hours & should be moisturized regularly.  After 2 to 3 days a small scab will develop, which falls off after 3 to 7 days. You can wash as normal & apply mineral based make-up if desired. Full spectrum sunscreen is recommended to reduce the chance of hyperpigmentation.  

Most patients require about 3 to 6 treatments with TCA CROSS for optimum improvement. Treatments may be repeated at 2 to 8 week intervals over 6 months. Some patients may require additional post resurfacing treatments.