TCA Cross for Ice Pick Scar on Nose Tip?

Question

I have ice pick scars on my nose tip and was wondering if TCA Peel Cross could help and at which concentration. I am Asian (Chinese).

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Acne scars are usually characterized within the subtypes of atrophic, hypertrophic, pigmented, or inflammatory. These subtypes of acne scars can be visually discerning in ambient light and can cause significant cosmetic concerns. Indented and atrophic scars require a combination approach to stimulate collagen and elastin, thereby smoothing contour and uneven skin. These are usually combined with lasers and depigmentation protocols to reduce inflammatory hyperpigmentation (Melarase AM and Melarase PM). Our Hidef protocols for acne scars include fillers such as Sculptra, Juvederm, Radiesse, and Restylane to improve deep acne scars; Vascular lasers to reduce inflammation and post-inflammatory redness and erythema; Fractional lasers to smooth contour and collagen; and Fractional RF to stimulate production of collagen within atrophic scars. Textural improvement and superficial scarring can be improved with Cosmelan peels, TCA Cross for ice-pick scars, deep chemical peels, and fractional CO2. We offer a personalized approach to your combination of scars and a formal evaluation with consultation is recommended to help you achieve your final results. Our plastic surgery office offers subcision and combination TCA Cross to help reduce deeply pitted scars. In terms of pigmentation and skin resonance, we recommend daily use of Melarase AM and Melarase PM coupled with Retinoid creams to achieve brilliant skin.

Best, 
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

David Hansen, MD · Answer

A few TCA 35-40% acid peels to the individual ice pick scars do well, but a real dermabrasion would do better for the nose, even with your skin color.  
Sincerely,
David Hansen, MD

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

I do not classify these wide pores on your nose as ice picks scars. They are very superficial.
Well executed few TCA peels or Dermabrasion will improve on them.

Mary P. Lupo, MD · Answer

I have seen great results with high concentration TCA placed in ice pick scars, but sometimes they can worsen if the scab is manipulated or picked.  Dermabrasion and Fraxel Restore are very safe on Asian skin and should also be considered as options with your dermatologist.

Bryan K. Chen, MD · Answer

TCA cross would probably help fill the scar in; results are variable.   Expect red/brown discoloration of the treated area for up to 2-3 months.  Results are gradual, over the period of about 1 year after the treatment(s).
Good luck.

TCA Cross for Ice Pick Scar on Nose Tip?

Answers (5)

Answer: Dermabrasion, Fraxel might be better

Answer: Dermabrasion, Fraxel might be better

Answer: TCA cross for scar on nose

Answer: TCA cross for scar on nose

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Everything you need to know about TCA Peel

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TCA Cross for Ice Pick Scar on Nose Tip?

Answers (5)

Answer: Dermabrasion, Fraxel might be better

Answer: Dermabrasion, Fraxel might be better

Answer: TCA cross for scar on nose

Answer: TCA cross for scar on nose

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about TCA Peel

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.