What is TCA CROSS?
TCA CROSS (Chemical Reconstruction Of Skin Scars) is a procedure primarily applied to depressed acne scars, especially deep and narrow scars like icepick scars. It involves directly applying a high-concentration trichloroacetic acid (TCA) solution to the scar area using a cotton swab or needle, chemically exfoliating the fibrous tissue at the scar base and inducing new collagen production.
When the TCA solution acts within the scar, it coagulates skin proteins, causing a 'frosting' phenomenon where the skin turns white. This process creates micro-injuries to the skin, promoting a natural wound healing response, which in turn generates new collagen and elastin, helping to fill in the scar area. After the procedure, redness and scabs may appear, and the scar depth can gradually shallow over the recovery period. Generally, multiple repeated treatments are necessary, and the interval between treatments is determined considering the skin regeneration cycle.
What is Subcision?
Subcision is an effective procedure for broad, undulating depressed acne scars such as rolling scars or boxcar scars. Depressed scars occur when fibrous bands beneath the skin pull the skin downwards. Subcision uses a special needle to sever these fibrous bands.
During the procedure, the needle enters below the dermal layer of the skin to physically sever the adherent fibrous tissues beneath the scar, allowing the pulled-down skin to rise and the scar to be alleviated. Furthermore, bleeding occurs where the needle passes, promoting blood coagulation and new collagen production, which aids in scar improvement. Subcision can be performed alone or in combination with other laser treatments or filler injections to achieve synergistic effects. After the procedure, bruising or swelling may occur, which naturally subsides over time.
TCA CROSS and Subcision: Which Scars Are They Suitable For?
- TCA CROSS: Primarily effective for deep, narrow 'icepick scars'. Since it directly stimulates the base of the scar to induce collagen production, it is suitable when targeting intensive improvement in a small area.
- Subcision: Effective for broad, shallow, or undulating 'rolling scars' or 'boxcar scars'. Since it severs the adherent fibrous tissues beneath the skin to lift the scar area, it is advantageous for improving depressed scars over a larger area.
Both procedures are used for improving depressed acne scars, but the most suitable treatment may vary depending on the type, depth, and shape of the scar. Therefore, it is important to consult with a medical professional to accurately diagnose your scar type and establish an appropriate treatment plan.
Precautions Before and After Treatment and Potential Side Effects
Precautions Before Treatment
- Before the procedure, thorough consultation is necessary to determine the appropriate treatment method for your skin condition and scar type.
- Medications that may affect blood clotting, such as aspirin, should be discussed with your medical professional and potentially discontinued before the procedure.
- If there is inflammation or infection in the treatment area, it is advisable to receive the procedure after the issue has been resolved.
Precautions and Side Effects After Treatment
- Redness and Swelling: Redness or swelling may appear for a few days after the procedure, which is a natural part of the healing process.
- Scab Formation: Small scabs may form after TCA CROSS treatment; care should be taken not to pick them off. It is important to let the scabs fall off naturally.
- Hyperpigmentation: Rarely, temporary hyperpigmentation may occur in the treated area. It is important to apply sunscreen diligently and follow the medical professional's instructions for care.
- Infection: Maintaining hygiene of the treated area is crucial; if signs of infection appear, visit a medical institution immediately.
- Scar Worsening: Although very rare, there is a possibility of scar worsening due to individual skin characteristics or improper post-treatment care.
After the procedure, it is essential to strictly follow the precautions provided by the medical professional and maintain proper post-treatment care, such as consistent use of sunscreen, to expect effective scar improvement. All procedures have individual variations, and there is a possibility of side effects, so it is crucial to consult thoroughly with a medical professional before making a careful decision.
This article provides general medical information and does not substitute for individual diagnosis or treatment. Decisions regarding specific procedures or treatments must be made through consultation with a medical professional.