TCA CROSS (Ice-Pick Scars)

Service Description

WHAT IT IS TCA CROSS — Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars — applies a high concentration of trichloroacetic acid to the base of individual ice-pick scars using a fine applicator, without touching the surrounding skin. The controlled injury prompts collagen to fill the scar from the bottom up. WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE IT Ice-pick scars are narrow and deep — like a puncture — and microneedling cannot reach the base of them. TCA CROSS is one of the very few techniques that treats this specific scar type effectively, which is why it exists as a separate treatment. WHAT WE AIM FOR Progressively shallower, narrower ice-pick scars as collagen builds at the base of each, over a course of sessions. WHO IT SUITS · Deep, narrow ice-pick scars · Scarring that microneedling has not improved · Pitted scarring on the cheeks · As one component of a combined scar plan · Mixed scarring including ice-pick type TREATMENT DETAILS Appointment: 30–45 minutes Discomfort: Brief sharp sting at each point Downtime: White frosting immediately, then small scabs for 5–7 days First results: After 2–3 sessions Sessions: 3–6, two to eight weeks apart Aftercare: Do not pick the scabs; strict SPF 50 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Will the scars disappear? No. They become shallower and narrower, which makes them far less visible under normal lighting. Complete closure of an ice-pick scar is not achievable, and it would be wrong to suggest otherwise. Why does it take so many sessions? Each session builds a small amount of collagen at the base of the scar. It is a gradual filling process, and being aggressive in a single session risks widening the scar rather than improving it. What are the risks? Applied outside the scar base, high-concentration TCA can cause a larger area of injury and worsen the appearance. This is a technique-dependent treatment and should only be performed by an experienced practitioner. Post-inflammatory pigmentation is also a risk, particularly in richly pigmented skin. What result can I realistically expect? Improvement, not erasure. No treatment removes acne scarring completely, and any clinic telling you otherwise is misleading you. A realistic outcome from a well-planned course is typically a 40 to 70 per cent improvement — the difference between scarring that is the first thing someone notices and scarring you have to look for. Why do I need more than one type of treatment? Because acne scars are not all the same. Ice-pick, boxcar and rolling scars have different structures and respond to different techniques. Applying one treatment to every scar type is the single most common reason scar treatment underdelivers. Do I need my acne under control first? Yes, absolutely. Treating scars while new ones are still forming wastes your money. Dr Selvi will get the active acne controlled before starting scar work — and will say so even if it delays the treatment you came in for. Is scar treatment suitable for darker skin? Yes, with appropriate technique and settings. The main consideration is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which is more likely in richly pigmented skin. Dr Selvi may prime your skin, adjust the approach, or space sessions further apart. How important is sun protection? Critical. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 50 throughout the course and for months afterwards. Freshly treated skin pigments readily, and sun exposure is the most common cause of a disappointing scar treatment result. Who will treat me? All treatments at Dr Selvi Clinic are carried out by a doctor, following a face-to-face consultation and an assessment of your suitability. BOOKING Book online, or start with the free 15-minute initial consultation if you are unsure which treatment is right for you. Prices are a guide and may vary according to your personalised treatment plan.