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Is TCA Cross, Not TCA Peel, Truly an Effective Method for Treating Ice Pick Scars?

asked 8 months ago by VKZ in California
Latest answer by Benjamin Barankin, MD
Question viewed 682 times
Tags: effectiveness, ice pick scar, treatment

I've seen numerous pictures posted by users/patients (not doctors) on sites, like acne.org, who have had amazing success with TCA Cross on ice pick scars. Many of them have tried Fraxel Re-Pair, Fraxel Re:store, and various other laser/peel treatments in the past with disappointing results. Some have had multiple laser treatments. If TCA Cross is a method that actually produces satisfactory results, why can't I find a doctor who offers the service?

4 answers to Is TCA Cross, Not TCA Peel, Truly an Effective Method for Treating Ice Pick Scars?

+1

TCA Cross for Ice Pick Acne Scars

TCA CROSS is a nice technique whereby high concentration trichloroacetic acid is placed inside a deep hole/ice pick scar resulting in reduction in the size of the ice pick scar. This is different from TCA peel which is a much lower concentration of the same acid placed on the entire face. Talk to your dermatologist about the best acne scar treatment option for you.
Benjamin Barankin, MD

Toronto Dermatologic Surgeon
+1

TCA Cross is effective for ice pick scars

I have performed many TCA CROSS treatments for ice pick scars. I find it to be an effective and non-invasive treatment option for ice pick scars. I use 100% TCA placed deep into ice pick scars in a precise, pinpoint fashion. Multiple treatment sessions are necessary for best results. Healing is quick with little downtime and most patients are satisfied with the improvement. It is important to not apply too much TCA to the skin as this could itself... more
Richard Ort, MD

Lone Tree Dermatologic Surgeon
+1

Can Be Effective

TCA Cross is not some sort of evangelical twist on a facial peel. TCA cross stands for Trichloracetic acid Chemical Reconstruction by skin scarring. How this is done is that 100% TCA is placed deeply into the ice pick scars, including the tissue around them. The chemical cauterization of this procedure sometimes causes the ice pick scar to close. This method does seem to work on occasion. It is not nearly as successfully employed as in treating sebaceous gland... more
Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD

Virginia Beach Dermatologist
+1

TCA Cross is not a new treatment. It has been practiced for over 30 years, but not with this name.

I have used this treatment on a lot of patients and I do not think my results with TCA Cross are as good as my results with eMatrix treatments. Fractional ablative lasers do not work well in oily skin because the oil fills the ablated holes and prevents them from healing well. eMatrix uses a different technology that give better results in my hands than TCA Cross.
Mark Taylor, MD

Salt Lake City Dermatologic Surgeon

www.gatewaylasercenter.com

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