Can I use Glycolic Acid instead of TCA for my acne scars?

Question

Hi, I have done one test of TCA cross on a deep ice-pick acne scar on my cheek. The TCA I could buy was only 30% strength, so I am wondering if I can use Glycolic Acid 70% instead of TCA for the same purpose.

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

Jyoti Gupta, MD · Answer

Are you saying that you have done TCA CROSS by yourself on your scars? 
If that's true, I would recommend you to stop experimenting with your precious skin. Doing it in a wrong manner or without full knowledge can lead to permanent scarring. Even with expert hands, in Indian skin type, TCA CROSS can have side effects too.
The potency of TCA and glycolic are completely different. one is self neutralising and other has to be neutralised by neutralisers. Also 70% GA is equivalent to 30% TCA only in potency.
kindly visit a dermatologist to get the procedure done

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

Glycolic acid peels are the second peel I see that results in severe scars (apart from DIY TCA CROSS and TCA Peels at high concentrations). TCA is self neutralising as your know, with the endpoint being coagulation of proteins. AHA at 70% is like playing with gasoline near a fire. At this concentration, if you multi-coat and don't neutralise in time will scar you. If you have darker skin type, PIH may be PERMANENT, if you get away with scars. All specialist do not use this peel on acne scars for a reason- safety, predictability and side effects. Obviously referring to 70% Glycolic peel first session, for acne scars, in your skin type. Please don't do this as side effects are likely to happen. See a dermatologist or plastics early, not to repair scars from at home AHAs. Dr Davin S. Lim. Brisbane. Australia.

Can I use Glycolic Acid instead of TCA for my acne scars?

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Can I use Glycolic Acid instead of TCA for my acne scars?

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