TCA Cross for Acne Scars

TCA Cross is a specialized dermatological treatment focused on improving skin texture and appearance, used for deep, hard-to-treat acne scars. This treatment utilizes high-concentration trichloroacetic acid to promote skin resurfacing and collagen production, which leads to smoother skin.

If you’d like to address deep acne scars that won’t fade and are in Prosper, Plano, Frisco or the greater Dallas-Fort Worth region, book a consultation at Lockhart Matter Dermatology to see if TCA Cross is the right solution for you.

What is TCA Cross?

TCA Cross, short for Trichloroacetic Acid Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars, is a procedure in which a high concentration of trichloroacetic acid is carefully applied directly into deep scars. The method is particularly effective for treating atrophic acne scars, including ice pick and boxcar scars. 

The acid stimulates the healing process and new collagen production, resulting in the reduction of scar depth and improved skin texture. Over the course of several treatments, the scar will become less deep and blend more smoothly into the surrounding skin.

Benefits

• Reduces the appearance of deep acne scars
• Promotes new collagen production, enhancing skin elasticity
• Improves overall skin texture, making it smoother and more uniform
• Offers long-lasting results with minimal downtime

What Types of Acne Scars Does TCA Cross Treat?

TCA Cross is primarily used to treat atrophic acne scars, which are lower than the surrounding skin and look like indentations or valleys. These scars appear when collagen is lost during the healing process after inflammatory acne and vary in depth according to the severity of the condition.

TCA Cross is a highly precise technique best suited for scars that are deep rather than wide. They include:

• Ice pick scars: deep, narrow and sharp-edged scars
• Boxcar scars: broad, box-like depressions with sharp edges

Ideal Candidates for TCA Cross

TCA Cross is a specialized procedure that treats deep ice pick or boxcar acne scars. Ideal candidates span a wide range of ages and include both men and women. This treatment is best suited for those in good overall health, without active skin infections or chronic skin conditions in the treatment area.

Although this treatment is safe for most people, contraindications include pregnancy or breastfeeding, a history of keloid scarring, and severe forms of rosacea or eczema in the treatment area. 

Additionally, certain medications, like isotretinoin (Accutane), should not be used for a certain period before undergoing TCA Cross. If you experience cold sores caused by the herpes virus, you may wish to take antiviral medication before treatment to prevent a recurrence.

Before & Afters

After undergoing TCA Cross, patients typically observe noticeable improvement in the appearance of scars and skin texture. The full effect of the treatment becomes evident as the skin heals and new collagen develops. For comprehensive results, a series of treatments may be recommended.

What to Expect at Your TCA Cross Treatment

Initial Consultation: Your journey begins with a personalized consultation at Lockhart Matter Dermatology. During this session, one of our board-certified dermatologists will assess your skin, discuss your aesthetic goals and determine if TCA Cross is the right treatment for you. We address any concerns and outline the expected outcomes.

Preparation: Before the treatment, we provide specific instructions to prepare your skin, which may include avoiding certain medications or skin care products.

Treatment Session: On the day of your TCA Cross treatment, the targeted areas will be thoroughly cleansed. High concentration trichloroacetic acid is then precisely applied to each scar. The procedure is quick, typically taking less than an hour, with minimal discomfort.

Recovery: Post-treatment, you’ll experience some redness and scabbing in the treated areas, which is a normal part of the healing process. We provide detailed aftercare instructions, including how to care for your skin and when to apply sunscreen to protect the treated areas.

Follow-Ups: Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor your progress. Results are typically visible after several weeks, as new collagen develops and skin texture improves. Depending on your skin’s response, additional sessions may be recommended for optimal results.

Alternative Acne Scar Treatments

In addition to TCA Cross, we offer several other treatment options for deep, hard-to-treat acne scars. They include:

Subcision

A surgical technique that involves inserting a small scalpel or needle below the skin to break up scars and release adhesions to the underlying tissue. Subcision can be more effective than TCA Cross for rolling or valley scars.

Excision 

A surgical procedure where individual acne scars are carefully cut out of the skin and the resulting wound is closed with stitches, creating a new, less noticeable scar.

Microneedling

Microneedling involves using a device tipped with fine needles to create tiny punctures in the skin, breaking up scar tissue and promoting the production of new, healthy tissue. For faster healing and optimal results, opt for radiofrequency microneedling, which deeply heats the skin to further boost collagen production.

Dermal fillers

Dermal fillers are injectables that temporarily restore volume and fullness to the skin. When injected into depressed acne scars, they can give the skin a more even, smooth appearance. Popular brands include Juvederm, Restylane and Sculptra.

Cost of TCA Cross in Texas

The cost of TCA Cross in Texas is influenced by several factors, including the severity of the skin condition, the number of sessions required and the expertise of the practitioner. For specific pricing details and to understand how these factors might affect your treatment, please contact us at Lockhart Matter Dermatology.

Other Services We Offer

At Lockhart Matter Dermatology in Prosper, Texas, we provide a range of aesthetic treatments designed for skin rejuvenation. Each utilizes advanced techniques and technologies to enhance your skin’s appearance and health.

• Botox Cosmetic: An injectable treatment, Botox Cosmetic temporarily relaxes facial muscles to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Ideal for those seeking a non-surgical solution to achieve smoother, younger-looking skin.
• Chemical Peels: This treatment involves applying a chemical solution to the skin, causing exfoliation and eventually peeling off. It rejuvenates the skin by revealing a smoother, more radiant layer underneath. Perfect for individuals looking to address issues like sun damage, uneven skin tone, or fine lines.
• Laser Hair Removal: This treatment uses concentrated light beams to target and destroy hair follicles, effectively reducing hair growth. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a long-term solution to unwanted hair on various body areas, offering a smoother skin surface with minimal discomfort. Laser hair removal is ideal for individuals looking to reduce the time and effort spent on traditional hair removal methods.

FAQs

How long does it take to see results from TCA Cross?

Results vary, but many patients notice improvements in their skin texture and scar appearance within several weeks after the treatment. For optimal results, a series of treatments may be recommended.

Are there any side effects associated with TCA Cross?

Common side effects include temporary redness, scabbing and mild swelling in the treated areas. These typically resolve within a few days. It’s important to follow aftercare instructions to minimize risks and enhance healing.

How long do results last?

Once an acne scar has been healed, it’s not likely to return. Therefore, it’s possible to say that results are permanent. However, if you still suffer from acne, it’s possible that you may experience new scarring in the future.