TCA cross Vs microneedling for ice pick scars?

Question

I was interested to know which is best for ice pick scars, TCA cross or micro needling? Or if there are other more effective treatments

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

Best, 
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

A combination using TCA cross with microneedling and prp, lasers and punch excision would give the most improvement for ice pick scars. It may take a series of treatments and may need life-long treatments to maintain. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Faiyaaz Kalimullah, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Acne scars, particularly ice pick scars, are among the hardest skin conditions to treat and often require a combination of treatments.  I often recommend TCA CROSS in combination with microneedling and/or skin resurfacing lasers for my patients with ice pick scars.  Please consider scheduling a consultation with a cosmetic dermatologist or plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns.  Best of luck!

Michael J. Brown, MD · Answer

Good afternoon and thank you for your question! A combination of treatments would be the best approach for improving ice pick scars. I would suggest a combination of TCA cross, microneedling, and/or lasers. Best of luck! For more information please feel free to visit our website!

TCA cross Vs microneedling for ice pick scars?

Answers (4)

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