TCA and Phenol Cross for Acne Scars and Large Dilated Pores
Tiffany Pickup, MD - November 2024
TCA/Phenol Cross is a peel technique that has been very well studied and published for its ability to dramatically improve acne scars and deep pores. CROSS stands for “Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars”. This is a form of a medium/deep peel that is targeted to specifically treat ice-pick scars and atrophic box car scars. Dr. Pickup and Dr. Crone are very well trained in this technique and use it frequently in their day-to-day practice. This is a unique treatment offered at the office as many physicians are not trained to do this procedure.
A toothpick or small paintbrush with the highly concentrated chemical is applied to small deep scars or pores. This causes inflammation which leads to skin remodeling and collagen production and ultimately, raises deep scars and pores to the same level as the surrounding skin. Numerous scars and pores can be treated during each treatment. There is mild discomfort for a few minutes with a slight stinging sensation for a few minutes. There is minimum downtime of about a week with mild redness or slight dryness at the site.
Most patients see significant results after 3-5 treatments, spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
TCA can be used on most skin types, while phenol can be used on ALL skin types including darker skin.
TCA/Phenol Cross can be used as a stand-alone procedure or can be the precursor to other full face treatments such as Fraxel, Skinpen Microneedling, or Peels to treat overall scarring and complexion issues.
Our board-certified team at Dermatology Specialists of Greater Cincinnati understand that dealing with acne and acne scarring can be frustrating and even embarrassing. We are experts at recommending what you can do to improve your acne and acne scarring!