How effective is TCA CROSS for acne scars?

TCA CROSS places a strong chemical solution directly into selected depressed scars rather than spreading it across the whole face. The controlled injury encourages new collagen and can make the edges and depth less noticeable as the skin heals. It is generally more suited to narrow ice-pick-type scars than broad rolling scars or raised scars.

A treated spot may crust, darken or look more obvious before it settles. Several appointments may be suggested, with healing time between them. The final appearance depends on scar depth, skin tone, aftercare and whether active acne continues to create new inflammation.

Have the scars assessed in person, especially if you have active acne, eczema, a history of thick scars or darker marks after injury. Before treatment, share all skin products, medicines and recent procedures. Follow the aftercare plan: leave crusts alone, keep the area protected from sunlight and use only products recommended for healing skin.

Do not apply the solution yourself or treat a larger area than advised. A clinician may combine TCA CROSS with another scar treatment when different scar shapes are present, but the order and timing should be individualised.

Seek prompt clinical advice for increasing pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, swelling that is worsening rather than settling, or a reaction involving the eyes. Contact the clinic if dark or pale colour changes persist or if a treated area develops a firm raised scar. Early review can help distinguish expected healing from infection or a pigment complication.

Ask which scar types you have, what degree of softening is realistic, how long healing may take, how pigment changes will be prevented, and whether another procedure would suit any scars that TCA CROSS cannot reach effectively.