How Does TCA CROSS Work?
TCA CROSS, which stands for Trichloroacetic Acid Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars, is a minimally invasive dermatological chemical peel designed specifically for treating acne scars, particularly deep and narrow ice pick scars. This procedure involves the precise application of highly concentrated TCA directly into the acne scars, inducing a localized chemical reaction.
By promoting collagen production and skin remodeling, TCA CROSS treats acne scars by elevating the scarred area. Focusing the treatment strictly on the scar tissue minimizes the risk to surrounding healthy skin, making it an effective chemical peel for those seeking significant improvements in their skin’s appearance.”
Advantages of TCA CROSS
TCA CROSS therapies demonstrate remarkable efficacy in addressing scars, particularly acne scar varieties like ice pick, boxcar, and deep scars. This method employs a precise approach that yields substantial enhancements in skin texture and appearance, all while minimizing downtime and preserving surrounding skin integrity. Here are several notable advantages of TCA CROSS for managing acne scars:
- Precise Application: TCA CROSS treatments involve application directly to the target acne scars, minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy skin and enhancing the accuracy of the acne scar treatment.
- Biostimulation: The TCA CROSS technique fills in acne scars from within by stimulating collagen production, an essential process for skin rejuvenation.
- Improved Texture: Patients typically notice a smoother skin texture and more even skin tone with the TCA CROSS technique.
- High Efficacy: Many patients see significant improvements in their acne scarring after only a few sessions, making this treatment an efficient option for acne scar treatment.
- Cost-Effective: The treatment is often more affordable than other methods of acne scar treatment, such as laser treatments, especially when considering the efficacy in targeting deeper scars.
- Minimal Downtime: Compared to more invasive peels for acne scars, TCA CROSS treatment generally requires minimal recovery time, allowing patients to return to normal activities soon after the chemical peel treatment.
- Long-Lasting Results: Once the desired outcome is achieved, the improvements are generally long-lasting with proper skin care and protection, unlike some other methods of acne scar treatment.
These benefits make TCA CROSS treatment one of the top choices for addressing acne scars, notably for reducing their visibility and severity.
Should I Choose TCA CROSS Treatment?
Making the decision about TCA CROSS treatment for acne scars involves weighing various factors. This treatment option is highly effective for addressing deep, narrow scars like ice pick and boxcar scars, but its efficacy may be limited for rolling or tethered scars.
Ideal candidates include individuals with good overall health, stable skin conditions, and realistic expectations about treatment outcomes. Skin type and color are additional considerations; individuals with darker skin tones should discuss potential risks, such as post-peel hyperpigmentation, with their dermatologist.
Consulting with a qualified dermatologist ensures personalized assessment and treatment planning tailored to your specific acne scars and skin characteristics.
Timeline for Recovery
The recovery period following TCA CROSS treatments is generally shorter than that of more invasive procedures for acne scars, yet it can vary based on factors such as skin type, treatment extent, and TCA concentration. Patients typically experience a healing phase where their skin repairs and revitalizes the acne scars over several days to a few weeks.
- Immediate Post-Treatment (Days 1-3): Treated acne scar areas will likely appear red and swollen with small crusts and scabs forming where the TCA CROSS peel was applied.
- Early Healing Phase (Days 4-7): Avoid picking and let the scabs fall off on their own as the initial redness starts to fade and the scabs dry out.
- Mid-Recovery Phase (Week 2): As the scabs fall off naturally, they will reveal new pink and tender skin underneath. This new, healthier skin will continue to form from the TCA CROSS peel.
- Continued Healing (Weeks 3-4): Gradually, the new skin will fully heal and blend into the surrounding areas. Any residual pinkness will begin to fade during this time.
- Long-Term Healing (Month 2 onwards): The skin’s texture will continue to Collagen production and remodeling continues for months after the chemical peel, further smoothing and improving the skin’s texture.
Throughout this recovery timeline, it is crucial to adhere strictly to the aftercare guidelines provided by your dermatologist. This includes precautions like avoiding direct sunlight and utilizing recommended skincare products to promote healing and mitigate potential complications.
How Does TCA CROSS Application Work?
TCA CROSS is a highly detailed procedure and requires the skill and expertise of a trained dermatologist to ensure both the efficacy and safety of the treatment. Below is a comprehensive overview of the process:
- Preparation: First, the skin is disinfected and cleansed of any oils. Then, it is left to dry completely to allow the peel to adhere properly to the acne scars.
- Application: Highly concentrated TCA is applied little-by-little into each individual scar with a fine-tipped instrument. This method spares the surrounding healthy skin.
- Neutralization: TCA CROSS self-neutralizes, unlike some other chemical peel procedures, so there is no need for neutralizing solution.
- Immediately After: As the acid seeps into the skin, the treated acne scar areas may turn white. This is normal and typically disappears within a few hours.
- Monitoring: The dermatologist will monitor the reaction and the treatment response, adjusting the application if necessary according to your skin type during subsequent sessions.
What to Anticipate
The trichloroacetic acid may sting when applied to the acne scars, and after treatment, the targeted areas may appear red and swollen. Small scabs will form on the treated acne scars and fall off by themselves in around one week, leaving behind rejuvenated skin.
Over the following weeks, as your skin continues to heal, your acne scars will improve as your skin undergoes collagen remodeling. To aid healing, closely adhere to the TCA CROSS aftercare instructions provided by your dermatologist. Caring for your skin is an essential part of the recovery process.
Aftercare Instructions
Adequate post-procedural care is crucial following TCA CROSS treatment to optimize outcomes for your acne scars and reduce potential adverse effects. Here are essential guidelines to adhere to:
- Avoid Sun Exposure: Shield the treated acne scar areas from sunlight can worsen skin discoloration. Additionally, use broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 50+ as well as protective clothing.
- Use Lightening Creams if Recommended: If you have a darker complexion or find yourself prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, your dermatologist may recommend using a lightening cream.
- Leave Scabs Alone: The scabs that form over the treated acne scars are an integral part of the healing process. Refrain from picking at them and allow them to naturally detach to promote smooth healing of the underlying skin.
- General Care: Keep the treated acne scarring area clean and moisturized. Stick to gentle, non-comedogenic products rather than harsh, abrasive ones during recovery
Carefully following these guidelines will help speed up the process of healing from TCA CROSS and also protect your skin from potential complications of chemical peel treatment.
How Many Sessions of TCA CROSS Do I Need?
The number of sessions required for TCA CROSS treatment can vary widely among patients, depending largely on the severity and types of acne scarring, such as ice pick and atrophic scars. Many patients need multiple TCA CROSS treatments for optimal results, particularly those with more pronounced scars like deep ice pick acne scars.
It is important to note that significant improvement is usually not achieved after just one session. Because many individuals have multiple types of scars, combining TCA CROSS with other treatments is often recommended to fully address the acne scar revision process.
By integrating techniques such as microneedling, laser treatment, and subcision, this combined approach becomes more comprehensive, addressing the diverse needs of scarred skin. Sessions are typically spaced several weeks apart to allow adequate healing time and to optimize the response of acne scars to treatment. Your acne scar specialist will closely monitor your progress and adjust the treatment schedule as needed.
Using TCA CROSS with Other Acne Scar Treatments
Pairing the TCA CROSS procedure with other dermatological treatments greatly increases the efficacy of acne scar treatment. Below are four common treatments combined with TCA CROSS chemical peels to achieve optimal outcomes:
- Subcision
- Fractional Laser Resurfacing
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
- Microneedling
TCA CROSS plays a crucial role in treating various types of acne scars, including deep ice pick and atrophic scars. However, it’s essential to undergo a clinical assessment with a physician. Contact our acne scar specialist in Calabasas today to explore the best scar treatment options available!
