TCA Cross, also known as Trichloroacetic Acid Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars, is a medium to deep chemical peel that is used to treat acne scars, wrinkles and photo-aging. This technique involves using a high concentration of TCA (70%-100%) to alter the natural qualities of the proteins at the deeper layers of the skin where scar tissue is found. It stimulates collagen growth, dermal thickening, and improvement of your acne scar appearance.
How Does TCA Cross Acne Scar Work?
When TCA is applied to the skin, it causes a local inflammatory reaction and kills the skin cells. The treated area will turn white, also known as frosting, which meant that the proteins in the skin are being denatured. The dead cells eventually peel off, leading to the formation of new collagen fibres. This helps to reduce the appearance of acne scars by increasing collagen reflectance and reducing shadows cast over scar depressions.
Types Of Acne Scars That TCA Cross Can Treat
Rolling Scars
Wave-like appearance and is formed when scar tissues grow under the skin. It is similar to boxcar scars but it is much shallower.
Boxcar Scars
Big with sharp edges. Chickenpox scars are an example of a boxcar scar.
Icepick Scars
Much more severe type of acne scar that is deep and narrow. Because of their small size, they are harder to treat with over-the-counter products and require professional treatment.
Atrophic Acne Scars
Wave-like appearance and is formed when scar tissues grow under the skin. It is similar to boxcar scars but it is much shallower.
Keloid scars
Big with sharp edges. Chickenpox scars are an example of a boxcar scar.
Enlarged Pores
Much more severe type of acne scar that is deep and narrow. Because of their small size, they are harder to treat with over-the-counter products and require professional treatment.
Summary – Types of Acne Scar
Benefits of TCA Cross Acne Scar
Minimally-Invasive Treatment
Revitalise your Skin Complexion
Reduces Enlarged Pores
Improve Appearance of Deep Acne Scars
Witness Significant Results within 4-6 Weeks
TCA Cross vs Chemical Peeling
Several chemicals are used in chemical peeling, most notably alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), beta hydroxy acids (BHA), Jessner’s solution, and Trichloroacetic acid (TCA). In chemical peeling, superficial depth peels are most popular as it improves skin texture and removes mild pigmentation by resurfacing the epidermis layer of the skin. Superficial peels can be used for full-face chemical peeling with minimal downtime and discomfort.
Deep acne scars such as icepick scars do not benefit much from superficial peeling, as the chemical penetration into the skin is limited. It is also risky for the patients to use deep peels over the entire face. With TCA cross, 70%-100% TCA strength can be applied to selected areas on the face to target deep acne scars only, without harming the surrounding skin tissues. This makes TCA Cross a safe and effective treatment for removing acne scars.
What Can You Expect During The Procedure?
Our doctors will conduct an in-depth consultation with you to discuss your desired results and the areas to focus on prior to the treatment.
Before starting on the procedure, your face will be cleaned and disinfected to remove any impurities before a numbing cream is applied and left on to settle. The doctor will choose the right concentration of TCA depending on your skin type and scar depth. It will then be applied on the base of the acne scar with a syringe-dropper or tooth-pick method.
Patients may experience a warm heating sensation during the treatment, but it is very well tolerated by most individuals. After the procedure, an antibiotic ointment is applied to aid healing and to reduce the risk of infection.
Meet The Doctors
Dr. Daniel Wee
MBBS (Singapore) | GDFM (Singapore) | Accredited Family Physician (MOH) | Accredited Certificate Issuer for Lasting Power of Attorney (Ministry of Community and Youth Singapore MCYS) | Member of Singapore Medical Association (SMA) | Member of College of Family Physicians Singapore (CFPS)
Dr. Lau Xin Rou
MBBS (University Malaya) | Accredited by Singapore Medical Council for Medical Aesthetic Procedure
FAQ On TCA Cross Acne Scar
Is TCA Cross Painful?
No, the procedure may only feely slightly uncomfortable due to the warm heating sensation. However, it is tolerable.
How Often Do I Need To Get The Treatment Done?
This depends entirely on the patient’s scar depth and skin type. Generally, it is recommended to get 3-4 sessions, with an interval of 4-6 weeks between sessions.
Is There Any Side Effect Or Downtime?
The frosting may remain for up to 12 hours, and the surrounding skin will appear red and swollen for 1-2 days. However, there will not be any pain during recovery. Patients are encouraged to apply ample sunscreen and moisturizer to avoid hyperpigmentation or darkening at the treatment areas. Makeup should only be used on day 3 onwards.
What Can I Expect After The Treatment?
The frosting would develop into scabs a couple of days after the treatment and falls off in 3-7 days. Patients should avoid picking at the scabs at all costs to avoid further scarring. It takes at least 3-4 weeks for collagen stimulation to form and 3-4 months to see the maximum results.
Joyre Medical & Aesthetic Clinic
Visit Us @Serangoon NEX #02-28
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