What is the TCA CROSS Procedure?
Trichloroacetic Acid Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars (TCA CROSS) is a minimally invasive chemical pee designed by dermatologists to treat acne scars. In particular, TCA CROSS is effective on narrow and deep acne scars, known as ice pick scars. The technique involves the precise application of highly concentrated TCA directly into the individual acne scars, causing a localized chemical reaction.
TCA CROSS elevates the atrophic scarred area by stimulating collagen production and skin remodeling. Additionally, since TCA CROSS is solely focused on the acne scar tissue, the surrounding healthy skin is spared. Thus, TCA CROSS is a targeted chemical peel treatment for those looking to improve the appearance and texture of their acne scars.
How Will TCA CROSS Benefit Me?
TCA CROSS treatments are highly effective for treating most types of scars, including ice pick scars, boxcar scars, and deep scars.The targeted approach allows for marked improvements in acne scarring without the need for extensive downtime nor damage to surrounding skin that come with alternative procedures for acne scars. Listed below are some of the pivotal benefits that TCA CROSS for acne scars offers:
- 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: By stimulating collagen production, the TCA CROSS technique is able to fill in acne scars from within, comprehensively supporting skin rejuvenation.
- Improved Texture: With the TCA CROSS technique, patients usually notice a more even skin tone and smoother texture.
- High Efficacy: After only a couple of sessions, many patients note major improvement and confidence in their skin, making TCA CROSS an efficient treatment option for acne scarring.
- Minimal Downtime: Compared to more invasive peels for acne scars, TCA CROSS treatment typically requires much less downtime, allowing patients to return to their daily life much earlier.
- Cost-Effective: TCA CROSS is much less expensive than other methods of acne scar treatment, including lasers and dermabrasion, especially when considering the ability to target scars at all depths.
- Long-Lasting Results: Compared to other methods of acne scar treatment that require constant maintenance, once the desired outcome is achieved after TCA CROSS, the improvements are generally long-lasting with proper skin care and protection.
These benefits make TCA CROSS treatment one of the best chemical peels for reducing both the visibility and severity of acne scars.
Am I A Good Candidate for TCA CROSS?
Determining if TCA CROSS treatment is suitable for your acne scars requires careful consideration. TCA CROSS is particularly effective for deep, narrow scars like ice pick and boxcar scars but may not be as effective for rolling or tethered scars.
Ideal candidates are those in good health, with stable skin free of active acne, and realistic expectations about the results. Skin type and color are also important factors; individuals with darker skin tones might be more prone to post-peel hyperpigmentation and should discuss potential risks with their provider.
It is crucial to consult with a qualified dermatologist who can evaluate your specific acne scars, skin type, and medical history to determine if TCA CROSS treatment is right for you. This personalized approach ensures you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment for your skin concerns and acne scarring.
How Long Is The Recovery Process for TCA CROSS?
Compared to other more invasive procedures for acne scars, the recovery time for TCA CROSS is relatively short. However, it can vary from patient to patient depending on skin type, extent of treatment, and TCA concentration. Typically, the recovery period will take a few weeks as the acne scars heal and the skin rejuvenates itself. Below is a summary of a typical recovery timeline:
- Immediate Post-Treatment (Days 1-3): Immediately following the TCA CROSS procedure, redness and swelling is normal in the areas of treated acne scars. Small crusts or scabs can form where the peel was applied.
- Early Healing Phase (Days 4-7): The initial redness will start to fade and the scabs will start to dry out. It is important to avoid picking and let the scabs fall off by themselves in order to prevent infection and more scarring.
- Mid-Recovery Phase (Week 2): Most of the scabs will have fallen off naturally. The skin underneath may appear pink and tender as new, healthier skin forms from the peel.
- Continued Healing (Weeks 3-4): The revitalized skin continues to heal and gradually blends with the surrounding areas. Any residual discoloration will fade during this time.
- Long-Term Healing (Month 2 onwards): Collagen production and remodeling continues for months after the chemical peel, continuously smoothing and improving the skin’s texture.
To ensure a smooth recovery, it is important to follow all aftercare guidelines provided by your dermatologist, including minimizing sun exposure and using recommended products to aid wound healing.
What is the Process of Applying TCA CROSS?
The TCA CROSS procedure is a precise chemical peel that demands careful execution by a trained dermatologist. Here is a step-by-step outline of how the treatment is typically administered:
- Preparation: The skin is cleansed to remove any oils, and an antiseptic is applied to reduce the risk of infection. The area is then dried completely to ensure the peels adheres properly.
- Application: Using a fine-tipped instrument, such as a toothpick or a small, sharp applicator, the dermatologist carefully applies a small amount of high concentration TCA directly into each scar. This minimally invasive technique confines the peel to the scarred tissue thus sparing the healthy surrounding skin.
- Neutralization: Unlike some other chemical peel procedures, TCA self-neutralizes, so no neutralizing solution is applied. The reaction stops once the desired depth is reached with minimal discomfort.
- Immediately After: The treated skin may frost or turn white, which indicates that the acid has penetrated the skin’s surface. This frost typically subsides 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 Happens During Treatment?
During TCA CROSS treatment, you may feel a brief stinging sensation as the trichloroacetic acid is applied to your acne scars. Afterward, expect the treated areas to appear red and possibly slightly swollen, with small scabs forming on the scars. These scabs typically shed naturally within about a week.
Over subsequent weeks, your skill will continue to heal and you will gradually notice improvements in the appearance of your acne scars. Full results will develop over several months as your skin undergoes extensive collagen remodeling. Your dermatologist will provide specific aftercare instructions for TCA CROSS to aid healing and ensure optimal outcomes for your acne scars, advising you on how to care for your skin during the recovery process.
Post-Treatment Instructions
Proper post-care is essential after undergoing TCA CROSS treatment to ensure the best results for your acne scars and to minimize potential side effects. Here are important guidelines to follow:
- Avoid Sun Exposure: Stay out of the sun as much as possible to prevent discoloration, and if necessary, use SPF 50+ sunscreen and consider wearing a broad-rimmed hat.
- Use Lightening Creams if Recommended: Depending on your skin type and color, your dermatologist may prescribe lightening cream to counteract post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Leave Scabs Alone: The scabs that form over the treated acne scars are part of the healing process. Picking at them can lead to scarring and infection. Allow the scabs to fall off naturally to ensure the new skin underneath can heal smoothly.
- General Care: Keep the treated acne scarring area clean and moisturized. Avoid using harsh products that can irritate your face and stick to gentle, non-comedogenic products during the recovery period.
Following these instructions carefully will help expedite the healing process and enhance the effectiveness of the treatment, protecting your skin from any long-term complications.
How Many Rounds of TCA CROSS Do I Need?
The number of TCA CROSS treatment sessions required varies widely among patients, primarily based on the severity and types of acne scarring, such as ice pick and atrophic scars. Most patients typically undergo multiple TCA CROSS sessions to achieve optimal results, particularly those with deeper ice pick scars.
It is important to note that significant improvement is often not immediate after just one session. Given that many individuals have various types of scars, combining TCA CROSS chemical peels with other treatments is often recommended to comprehensively address acne scar revision.
Integrating modalities like microneedling, laser treatments, and subcision enhances the effectiveness of combined therapy, addressing the diverse needs of scarred skin. Sessions are usually spaced several weeks apart to allow adequate healing time and to optimize the response of your acne scars to treatment. Your acne scar specialist will monitor progress and adjust the treatment schedule as necessary.
Pairing TCA CROSS with Other Acne Scar Treatments
TCA CROSS can be combined with additional dermatological procedures to ensure comprehensive treatment for all kinds of acne scarring. Here are four treatments that are often combined with TCA CROSS chemical peels to see further improvement:
- Subcision
- Fractional Laser Resurfacing
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
- Microneedling
TCA CROSS represents a crucial treatment option for addressing various types of acne scars, including deep, ice pick, atrophic, and rolling scars. However, it’s essential to undergo a clinical evaluation by a physician. Contact our acne scar specialist today to explore one of the most effective treatments available for scarring in Newport Beach!