TCA CROSS—Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars—is a highly targeted treatment designed to improve the appearance of deep ice-pick scars and selected narrow boxcar scars. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is applied precisely inside each individual scar, creating a controlled healing response that stimulates new collagen production and gradually remodels the scar from within.

 

Unlike a traditional full-face chemical peel, TCA CROSS treats only the selected scars while leaving most of the surrounding skin untouched. The treated areas usually develop temporary frosting followed by small crusts as they heal. A personalised assessment is essential because the treatment strength and technique must be carefully adapted to the scar pattern, skin type and risk of pigmentation changes.

 

TCA CROSS may help to improve:

• Deep ice-pick acne scars

• Selected narrow boxcar scars

• Pitted or sharply defined atrophic scars

• The depth and visibility of individual scars

• Overall skin texture when incorporated into a wider acne-scar programme

 

For optimal outcomes, a course of treatments is usually recommended because collagen remodelling occurs gradually. TCA CROSS may also be incorporated into a carefully staged programme with treatments such as microneedling, PRX-T33®, laser resurfacing or dermal filler, depending on the types of scarring present. Medical-grade homecare and daily sun protection will be recommended to support healing and reduce the risk of pigmentation changes.