What should you know about TCA CROSS after?

Treated scar openings can look white at first and then become red, tender, crusted, or darker. Mild tightness and local swelling may occur as the skin forms a new surface. The crust is part of the healing cover; pulling it off can reopen the area and increase the chance of a mark.

Scar remodelling happens gradually, so early redness or pigment does not show the final appearance. Healing differs between treatment points and between people, particularly when skin is prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Use the cleanser, ointment, dressing, and moisturiser recommended by the treating clinician. Wash hands before touching the area, keep crusts intact, and avoid rubbing, shaving across the points, exfoliating acids, retinoids, and fragranced products until advised.

Avoid direct sunlight and tanning while the skin is healing. Once the surface has closed, use the recommended sunscreen consistently. Do not judge the treatment too early or book another procedure without a review of the healing skin.

Contact the clinic promptly if pain, warmth, redness, swelling, or discharge is increasing, or if you develop fever. Ask for review of blisters, an open wound that is not closing, spreading crusting, or marked darkening or lightening. Seek urgent help for eye swelling, vision changes, or breathing difficulty.

Ask when to wash the area, whether a dressing is needed, when sunscreen can be applied, which products are temporarily paused, and which changes deserve an immediate call.