Is TCA cross painful?
Some patients report experiencing a stinging or burning sensation during the TCA cross procedure. Your treating doctor may apply a numbing cream to help reduce discomfort.
Expected discomfort as it relates to your unique circumstances will be discussed at your complimentary consultation with an experienced cosmetic doctor.
Can I do TCA cross and microneedling together?
Yes. The combination of TCA cross and microneedling is a perfect combination for improvement of acne scarring. The same is said for the combination of skin resurfacing laser and TCA cross.
Can TCA cross make scars worse?
Yes, using overly concentrated TCA there is a chance that scars could get worse. Risks as they relate to your unique circumstances will be discussed with you at a complimentary consultation. Characteristics of acne scars that make them more prone to side effects include:
- Those in darker skin types. The darker your baseline skin type the higher the risk of pigmentation forming in the area treated by TCA cross. There is also a slightly higher risk of keloid scarring post TCA.
- Large pit. Scars with a central pitting more than 2-3mm wide are more likely to worsen, rather than improve after TCA cross
- Rarely areas treated with TCA cross can experience hypopigmentation
Does TCA cross work?
Yes. TCA cross has peer reviewed clinical research supporting its use for the treatment of depressed scars, especially ‘icepick’ and ‘boxcar’ acne scars.
Expectations around treatment results as they relate to your unique circumstances will be discussed at your complimentary consultation.
Can I wash my face after TCA cross?
Yes, although we prefer you avoid soaps, exfoliative and active ingredient face washes for 2 weeks post treatment.
Can you do TCA cross at home?
No. TCA cross is a very potent acid, that used incorrectly can end in permanent scarring/discolouration of the skin.
