What is TCA CROSS done with?

TCA CROSS stands for chemical reconstruction of skin scars. A clinician applies a small amount of trichloroacetic acid directly to the base of an individual depressed scar rather than spreading it across the whole face. The controlled chemical injury triggers a healing response that can gradually make some scar depressions look less sharply defined.

The acid is a professional-use chemical and its strength, placement, and contact time require careful judgement. It is not the same as a general facial peel. Temporary frosting or whitening at the treated points, redness, tenderness, and small scabs can occur during recovery.

Have the scars assessed first, especially if you have active acne, eczema, a history of thick scars, or recent tanning. Follow the clinician's instructions about retinoids, exfoliating products, and sun protection. After treatment, leave the small crusts undisturbed, use only recommended products, and protect the area from sunlight while it heals. Improvement is gradual and treatment may be planned in stages.

Ask the treating clinic to review severe or increasing pain, spreading redness, pus, marked swelling, or a wound that is not healing as expected. Seek urgent help for swelling affecting the eyes or breathing, or for signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Discuss whether your scars are suitable, what acid strength and spacing will be used, how active acne should be managed, and how you will protect the treated points during healing.