TCA Cross Treatment in Singapore

Targeted chemical reconstruction for deep acne scars.

Dr Gerard Ee Profile Photo
Dr Gerard Ee

MBBS (UK), MRCS (Edinburgh), DP Dermatology (Cardiff)

What is TCA Cross

TCA Cross is a minimally invasive technique designed to treat depressed acne scars, such as ice-pick and smaller boxcar scars. The treatment is often considered for scars that are difficult to treat with other methods, such as laser therapy.

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How Does TCA Cross Work?

TCA Cross works by leveraging the skin’s natural repair mechanism to address deep scarring.

  • Creates Controlled Chemical Injury: The precise application of the high-concentration TCA solution creates a controlled chemical injury localised to the scar tissue.
  • Stimulates Healing Response: This injury immediately triggers the body’s natural wound-healing response, prompting the generation of new collagen fibres beneath the treated area.
  • Lifts and Smoothes Scars: The new collagen remodels the tissue, gradually lifting the base of the indented scar to be more level with the surrounding skin. This smoothing effect improves the appearance of deep scars.

The TCA Cross treatment in Singapore is a targeted, effective solution for deep scars.

What Types of Acne Scars Can Be Treated with TCA Cross?

Ice-Pick Scars

TCA Cross works well for these narrow, deep scars by stimulating collagen from the base to elevate the scar walls.

Boxcar Scars

This treatment is effective for shallow to medium boxcar scars by lifting the base of the scar to blend with the surrounding skin.

Rolling Scars

While primarily treated with subcision, TCA Cross can be used on rolling scars when they have a deep, defined central indentation.

Who is Suitable for TCA Cross Treatment

TCA Cross treatment in Singapore is an excellent option for many patients, but it is not suitable for everyone.

Ideal Candidates:

  • Individuals with deep, narrow, depressed scars, primarily ice-pick and some boxcar scars.
  • Patients with stable skin who are seeking a highly targeted treatment with minimal downtime.
  • Adults who are able to comply strictly with post-treatment sun avoidance.

Not Suitable For:

  • Patients with active skin infections, inflammation, or cystic acne in the treatment area.
  • Individuals with a history of keloid scarring.
  • Pregnant or nursing patients.

What to Expect During TCA Cross Treatment

Step 1: Consultation & Skin Assessment 

Dr Ee will thoroughly evaluate your acne scars, focusing on their type and depth, and discuss your aesthetic goals to confirm the suitability of TCA Cross.

Step 2: Preparation

Your skin will be cleansed to remove dirt and make-up, ensuring the area is sterile and prepared for the procedure. 

Step 3: TCA Application

Dr Ee will use a fine instrument to apply the concentrated TCA solution directly and precisely into the base of each individual scar, initiating the controlled chemical injury.

Step 4: Immediate Post-Treatment Effects

Immediately following application, the treated scar tissue will turn white or “frost”—a temporary effect that signals the start of the collagen-stimulating process. Mild redness and peeling will follow.

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Trusted Care by Dr Gerard Ee

MBBS (UK), MRCS (Edinburgh), DP Dermatology (Cardiff)

Dr Gerard Ee is an experienced aesthetic physician with comprehensive medical qualifications. He earned his medical degree (MBBS) from St George’s University of London, completed further training to become a member of the Royal College of Surgeons (MRCS) in Edinburgh, and achieved his Diploma in Dermatology (DP Dermatology) from Cardiff University.

Dr Ee has extensive experience in aesthetic procedures, with a focus on evidence-based acne treatment, acne scar laser treatments, and skin rejuvenation. His patient-centred approach involves taking the time to understand your specific concerns to create personalised treatment plans for the best possible outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions About TCA Cross

Patients generally experience a 50-80% improvement in deep ice pick scars after a series of 2-3 TCA Cross treatments. The scars become shallower and less noticeable, particularly in different lighting and shadows. Scar improvement continues over several months following the procedure. Once deep acne scars are raised to a more shallow level, lasers such as Fraxel may be used to complete the acne scar revision process.

The procedure is minimally uncomfortable, with most patients reporting a mild, temporary stinging sensation as the TCA works on the scars. Local anaesthetic is typically not required.

Common side effects of TCA Cross include redness, peeling, and mild swelling, which typically resolve within a week. More rarely, there is a risk of hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin), scarring, or infection. These risks can be minimised by following post-treatment care guidelines, such as avoiding sun exposure and applying prescribed creams to aid healing. Dr Gerard’s extensive experience performing TCA Cross helps ensure the treatment is applied precisely, reducing the likelihood of complications and optimising results.

The treated areas will appear “frosted” for several hours after the procedure, followed by redness that lasts for several days. The treated areas typically remain red for 3-4 days before shedding or peeling. Full recovery is expected within 5-7 days.

During recovery, the treated areas may initially appear white or “frosted” for a few hours post-procedure. Redness and swelling typically follow and last for 3-4 days. Scabbing or crusting may develop as the skin begins to peel and heal. By the end of the first week, most patients notice that peeling subsides, and the skin continues to recover, with final healing expected in 5-7 days. Full recovery depends on the depth of the scars and adherence to aftercare instructions.

Yes, TCA Cross is safe for all skin types, including Asian and darker skin tones. However, in darker-skinned patients, there is an increased risk of post-procedure darkening, where treated areas may appear darker than the surrounding skin for weeks to months. The use of sunscreen or fading creams can help reduce this risk. An extra 1 or 2 TCA Cross sessions may be needed for darker skin, as the concentration of TCA is modified to minimise the chances of prolonged post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Yes, in cases of enlarged pores, 2-3 TCA Cross treatments may be required to achieve a noticeable reduction in pore size.

TCA Cross can be used as a stand-alone procedure to treat enlarged pores or as a preparatory step for laser resurfacing in the treatment of deep acne scars. Techniques such as subcision, lasers, and punch elevation can be combined to achieve optimal results, depending on the type of scars and the patient’s skin condition. Once the depth of scars is levelled, laser treatment can further refine the results.

Find out more about the Fraxel Laser treatment in Singapore.

Yes, when performed by an experienced medical professional like Dr Gerard Ee, TCA Cross treatment is generally safe. The procedure is highly targeted to minimise impact on surrounding healthy skin.

The number of TCA Cross sessions required typically ranges from 2 to 4, spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart, depending on the severity of the acne scars and the individual patient’s response to treatment.

Ready to achieve smoother skin? Call or WhatsApp us now to schedule your TCA Cross consultation!