TCA Cross for Acne Scars

TCA Cross in Los Angeles

TCA Cross (Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars) is a specialized treatment for deep, pitted acne scars - particularly ice pick and boxcar scars. Unlike traditional chemical peels that treat the entire face, TCA Cross uses high-concentration trichloroacetic acid applied precisely to individual scars.

At MedBeautyLA, we use TCA Cross as a targeted solution for stubborn acne scars that don't respond well to other treatments. The high-concentration acid triggers intense collagen production from the base of the scar, literally "filling in" the depression from the bottom up.

How TCA Cross Works

Using a tiny applicator, we apply 70-100% TCA directly into each acne scar. This creates controlled injury that:

Triggers massive collagen production at scar base
Causes scar to "fill in" from bottom up
Reduces scar depth by 50-80% over multiple sessions
Improves skin texture and smoothness
Creates more even skin surface

Best For

TCA Cross is most effective for:

Ice pick scars - Deep, narrow, pitted scars
Boxcar scars - Round or oval depressions with defined edges
Deep rolling scars - In combination with subcision
Stubborn scars - That haven't responded to other treatments

Treatment Time

15-30 minutes

Sessions Needed

3-6 treatments

Downtime

3-7 days

Improvement

50-80% reduction

Benefits of TCA Cross

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Highly Targeted

Treats individual scars without affecting surrounding skin

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Dramatic Results

50-80% improvement in scar depth

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Proven Effective

Clinical studies show significant scar improvement

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Quick Treatment

Only 15-30 minutes per session

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Cost-Effective

More affordable than laser treatments

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Long-Lasting

Results are permanent once scars are filled

What to Expect

Consultation

Assess scars and determine if TCA Cross is appropriate

Treatment

Precise application of TCA to each individual scar

Healing

Scabs form and fall off over 3-7 days

Results

Scars gradually fill in over 4-8 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

Does TCA Cross hurt?

You'll feel a brief stinging or burning sensation when the acid is applied to each scar - it lasts only seconds. Most patients tolerate it well without numbing. The discomfort is very brief and worth it for the dramatic results!

What does the healing process look like?

Treated scars will turn white (frost) immediately, then darken over 24 hours. Small scabs form and fall off naturally in 3-7 days. During this time, avoid picking at scabs and keep the area moisturized. Redness fades over 1-2 weeks.

How many treatments will I need?

Most patients need 3-6 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal results. Deep scars may require more sessions. Each treatment builds on the previous one, gradually filling the scar from the bottom up.

Can TCA Cross be combined with other treatments?

Yes! TCA Cross works beautifully with microneedling, subcision, and laser treatments. We often create combination protocols for comprehensive acne scar improvement, using different treatments for different scar types.

Is TCA Cross safe for all skin types?

TCA Cross can be used on all skin types, but darker skin tones have a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. We take extra precautions and may use lower concentrations for darker skin to minimize this risk.

How is TCA Cross different from regular chemical peels?

Regular peels use lower concentrations (10-30% TCA) applied to the entire face for overall texture improvement. TCA Cross uses much higher concentrations (70-100%) applied only to individual scars for dramatic depth reduction. They're completely different treatments!