From the Research
The recommended treatment for deep icepick scars using TCA CROSS involves applying high-concentration trichloroacetic acid precisely to the base of each scar, typically using 90% TCA, with a wooden applicator or toothpick, and repeating the treatment every 4-6 weeks for 3-6 sessions, as supported by the study published in 2010 1.
Key Considerations
- The procedure begins with cleansing the face and applying petroleum jelly around the scars to protect surrounding skin.
- Using a wooden applicator or toothpick, the physician carefully deposits a tiny amount of TCA solution into each icepick scar, avoiding overflow onto normal skin.
- A white frosting reaction indicates proper application.
- Post-procedure care includes gentle cleansing, strict sun protection, and moisturizing.
- Patients should expect temporary redness, crusting, and darkening that resolves within 5-7 days.
Efficacy and Safety
- The study published in 2010 1 demonstrated that the CROSS technique with 100% TCA is a safe, efficacious, cost-effective, and minimally invasive technique for the management of ice pick acne scars.
- Another study published in 2014 2 compared the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma, CROSS technique with 100% trichloroacetic acid, and combined skin needling and platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of atrophic acne scars, and found that all three modalities showed promising efficacy and safety.
Important Notes
- The study published in 2021 3 highlighted the importance of using a precision applicator, such as a 30-gauge needle, to prevent TCA spread to adjacent healthy skin and worsening of acne scars.
- The choice of TCA concentration and treatment protocol may vary depending on the individual patient's needs and response to treatment, as noted in the study published in 2008 4.