The answers in this forum give a superb overview of TCA use for facial acne and other scars. Principally for facial scars that cast shadows because of pigment deep in the pits or recesses, TCA can be helpful in reducing that pigmentation. For the most superficial scars, it may soften the shoulders at the edges... more
Is TCA Chemical peel effective for acne scars?
Will TCA Chemical peel help improve acne scars? If so, for which types (ice pick, rolling, boxcar) is it most effective?
Sort: Date | Helpful
6 answers to “Is TCA Chemical peel effective for...”A: TCA Peel depends on how bad your acne scarring is
Hello, It really depends upon how bad your acne scarring is. TCA peels are good medium depth peels. For thick scarring or scarring involving lots of pits, I would move toward a CO2 laser if the skin type was fair enough. You might want to see a good plastic surgeon about this possibility.
A: Chemical peels is not a very effective treatment for significant acne scarring
Chemical peels is not a very effective treatment for significant acne scarring. Chemical peels in general are placed on the surface and penetration is similar in all areas of the scar so their major improvement relies upon improving skin texture. With acne scarring whether it is raised or depressed, the goal... more
A: TCA and acne scars
No, it does not work; peels are of uniform depth so they cannot be "sculpted' as can dermabrasion and lasers. They also do not go deep enough, unless they are so strong that they risk depigmentation and scarring.
A: TCA better for discolored scars, resurfacing better for indented scars
In my opinion, Fraxel restore, Fraxel Repair, Active/Deep FX, and full dermabrasion are the best for most indented scars. TCA peels work less well for altered architecture, but is excellent for shallow scars and discoloration. Ice pick scars respond poorly to all modalities.
A: TCA can help with acne scars.
The appearance of rolling, depressed scars can be improved somewhat with full-face TCA peels - moreso with a 20-30% peels than lighter peels. Ice-pick and box-car type scars can respond to higher concentrations of TCA (80-100%) applied to the base of these individual scars. Ice-pick scars also... more
Comments
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.
14 posts
22 Jan 2009
Hi Docs, Thanks for the information. First, can you apply 100% TCA cross on rolling scar? If so, how, since there is no scar base unlike ice-pick? Why is it recommended to use a wooden application and not Q-tip? Second, can a TCA peel be performed at the same time as TCA cross? If not, how long do we need to wait before each treatment whether it is peel-cross or cross-cross and peel-peel? Lastly, can you also improve the collagen rebuilding process from the peel/cross by doing subcision or dermarolling on some deeper scars? Are there any contraindications to these procedures when combined together? Many thanks for your advice.
unregistered guest
22 Jul 2009
Hello. I need to know how effective the TCA Chemical Peel 30% would be for post acne marks and for ance? Please send answers to my email: babii_bloo@live.com Thank you so much. - Alexa -