TCA CROSS for pores: what to know

Some acne scars are narrow and deep, making them look like enlarged pores. TCA CROSS uses carefully placed trichloroacetic acid in selected depressions rather than spreading a peel across the whole face. The aim is to create a focused repair response in the scar, so it is different from a cleanser or product intended to reduce oil.

Not every visible pore is a scar, and several texture concerns can exist together. A clinician considers scar shape, active acne, pigment history, healing tendency and the location of the marks. The expected course includes temporary redness and dark crusts, followed by gradual texture assessment rather than an immediate judgement.

Before treatment, disclose recent irritation, cold sores, acne medicines and any history of dark marks after skin injury. Use only the preparation advised by the clinician. Afterwards, cleanse gently, avoid picking, and pause irritating products until the skin surface has recovered. Sun protection helps limit additional colour change. Learn about [Trichloroacetic Acid](/materials/trichloroacetic-acid/) and the full [TCA CROSS](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/tca-cross/) procedure.

Contact the treating clinic if treated points become increasingly painful, hot, swollen or red, or if drainage, pus, fever or a bad smell develops. Swelling near the eyes or breathing difficulty requires urgent assessment. A new dark mark may need review, but do not scrub or peel it while the skin is healing.

Ask whether your concern is a pore, an ice-pick scar or another depression; how many areas would be treated; what aftercare is required; and when progress should be assessed.