Overview:
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Treats: Atrophic acne scars, particularly ice pick and small boxcar scars.
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Targets: Deep scar tissue and collagen remodeling.
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Treatment Area: Focused on facial scars.
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Sessions for Optimal Results: Typically 3-6 sessions.
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Frequency: Every 4-8 weeks.
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Maintenance: Assess annually
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Duration: 30 minutes.
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Preparation: no numbing required.
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Pain Level: Mild discomfort, rated 1/10.
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Downtime: Up to 7 days with possible crust formation and redness. Results: Gradual improvement in scar depth and skin texture.
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Makeup Application: Can be applied after crusts fall off, usually within 5-7 days.
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Skin Tone:*Caution with darker skin tones due to risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation/hypopigmentation.
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TCA Concentration: 50-100%, customized to scar depth and skin type.
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Price Range: $$
Who is TCA CROSS for?
Individuals with deep acne scars looking for a minimally invasive solution.
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Problem and Solution:
Deep acne scars, such as ice pick or boxcar types, can be particularly resistant to many treatments. TCA CROSS involves the careful placement of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) into the scars, promoting fibroblast activity and collagen production to elevate the scar floor.
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Other Benefits:
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Encourages precision in treating specific scarred areas without affecting surrounding skin.
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Stimulates local collagen production for natural skin regeneration.
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Improves the appearance of pores and skin texture over time.
How Does TCA CROSS Work?
TCA CROSS involves applying a high concentration of TCA directly into the scar tissue, causing a localized inflammatory reaction that leads to the formation of new collagen and subsequent elevation of the scar.
Why We Like TCA CROSS for Scars at AcneClinicNYC:
TCA CROSS is favored for its effectiveness in treating particularly stubborn deep acne scars with a relatively simple and precise procedure that requires minimal downtime with great effectiveness compared to more invasive surgical methods.
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Contraindications:
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Active acne or skin infection in the treatment area.
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History of keloid formation or poor wound healing.
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Recent isotretinoin (Accutane) use within the past 6 months.
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Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
FAQs:
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When Can I Wear Makeup?
After the crusts have naturally fallen off the treated scars.
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What to Expect After Treatment?
Mild to moderate redness, scab formation on treated scars, and temporary skin darkening (rarely hypopigmentation).
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Minimum Age for Treatment?
Generally suitable for adults 18 years and older.
Pre-Treatment Guide:
Download
Post-Treatment Care:
Download
Maintenance:
Follow-up treatments may be necessary for optimal results.