Before and after TCA CROSS

The procedure places trichloroacetic acid precisely inside selected depressed scars rather than peeling the entire face. A controlled white reaction appears at the treated point, followed by local inflammation and repair that may gradually soften the scar's depth and edges.

Small white spots during application are an expected chemical reaction. The points can then become red, darken, and form tiny crusts before shedding. Temporary colour change may persist after the surface closes, particularly in skin that develops pigmentation after inflammation.

The early healing phase is not the final result. Collagen remodelling is gradual, and narrow deep scars may respond differently from broad rolling or tethered scars. Standardised photographs help separate real contour change from differences in shadows, swelling, or camera angle.

Tell the clinician about active acne, eczema, recent tanning, cold sores, slow healing, raised scars, previous pigment changes, and all medicines or skincare products. Treatment should be deferred over infection or broken, inflamed skin. Do not attempt TCA CROSS at home because acid spreading beyond the scar can injure normal tissue.

Use only the cleanser, moisturiser, or ointment advised for recovery. Leave crusts in place, avoid scratching and harsh active skincare, and protect the area from ultraviolet exposure with shade, clothing, and broad-spectrum sunscreen once appropriate for the healing surface. Follow the clinic's instructions about exercise, swimming, shaving, and makeup.

Contact the treating clinician if pain, redness, warmth, or swelling intensifies, or if you notice pus, spreading blisters, a widening raw area, or delayed closure. Prompt review is also sensible for marked darkening or lightening beyond the treated points. Seek urgent care for facial swelling with breathing difficulty, eye exposure, or severe rapidly worsening pain.

Ask which scars will be treated, why their shape is suitable, how surrounding skin will be protected, and how your pigment response affects the plan. Discuss what improvement is realistic, whether another scar technique is needed for broader depressions, what normal healing looks like, and whom to contact if the acid reaction extends outside a scar.