- Duration
- Depends on the number of scars; explained after consultation
- Recommended sessions
- Usually several sessions 4–6 weeks apart
(explained after consultation) - Downtime
- Treated spots turn white, then crust
(about 1 week / varies by individual)
TCA CROSS is a treatment for narrow, deep icepick scars that improves them step by step over several sessions, to a degree that depends on scar depth and skin condition. Crusting and pigmentation may occur, and the realistic goal is to make scars less noticeable rather than to remove them.
01Overview
TCA CROSS
Encouraging regeneration inside narrow, deep icepick scars
TCA CROSS is a scar treatment in which high-concentration trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is dabbed, point by point, only onto the base of each scar using a very fine applicator. CROSS stands for Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars.
- Duration
- Depends on the number of scars; explained after consultation
- Recommended sessions
- Usually several sessions 4–6 weeks apart
(explained after consultation) - Downtime
- Treated spots turn white, then crust
(about 1 week / varies by individual) - How long it lasts
- Improvements tend to last
(builds up over sessions)
How we approach it
The same device can be run very differently.
Depressed scars cannot be resolved with a single method. We first distinguish the scar types, and TCA CROSS takes on the narrow, deep scars among them.
Scar treatment does not repeat the same treatment every time. At each session, we look again at the shape of the remaining scars and decide on the next combination.
Dr. Tae Hoon Kim, Medical Director
02What to expect
Changes over time
Applying a localised chemical stimulus inside the scar allows new collagen to fill in during healing, so the depth of narrow, deep scars gradually becomes shallower.
01Right after application
The treated spots turn white. They change to red within a few minutes to a few hours.
02Days 2–3
Small crusts form. Please do not pick them off.
03About 1 week
The crusts fall off and some redness may remain. Sun protection is especially important.
044–6 weeks
We check how collagen has filled in inside the scars and decide on the next session.
05Over the sessions
Over several sessions, the aim is for scar depth to become shallower step by step.
03Device & Technology
TCA CROSS Device
High-concentration TCA
An agent that applies a localised chemical stimulus to the base of the scar to draw out a regenerative response.
Point application
Dabbed only onto the base of the scar with a fine applicator, barely touching the surrounding normal skin.
Scar map
Each scar's type is identified, and TCA CROSS is applied only to the scars it suits.
04Procedure
How your visit goes
01Specialist diagnosis
We examine the shape and depth of each scar individually and select the scars suited to TCA CROSS.
02Preparation
After cleansing and disinfection, we confirm the scars to be treated.
03Application
The specialist dabs TCA, point by point, only onto the base of each scar with a fine applicator and checks for the skin's whitening reaction.
04Aftercare
We explain crust care, sun protection and when to schedule your next session.
Every procedure is performed directly by a board-certified dermatologist.
05Aftercare
Recovery & care
- 01
Day of treatment
Do not rub the treated spots, and apply the ointment and moisturiser we recommend.
- 02
Crusts
Do not pick off the crusts. Letting them fall away naturally is important for preventing pigmentation.
- 03
1–4 weeks
Apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen daily, and reapply every two hours when outdoors.
- 04
Follow-up
Based on changes in your scars, we decide on the next session and its combination with other scar treatments.
06FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What kind of treatment is TCA CROSS?
It is a treatment in which high-concentration trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is dabbed only onto the base of each scar with a very fine applicator. When a localised stimulus is applied inside the scar, new collagen fills in as it heals, with the aim of gradually making narrow, deep scars shallower.
Is it different from a peel applied to the whole face?
Yes. A full-face peel evenly removes the skin surface, whereas TCA CROSS is dabbed point by point only onto the base of each individual scar. That is why it barely touches the surrounding normal skin.
What kinds of scars is it suited to?
It is mainly used for icepick scars, which have a narrow opening and are deep, as if pierced by an awl. With such scars, laser energy often has difficulty reaching the base. For broad depressed scars, we plan other methods such as Subcision or lasers alongside it.
Does it hurt?
You feel a stinging, burning sensation the moment it is applied, but it passes quickly. It is mostly performed without numbing, and if you are sensitive to pain, we can proceed after applying topical numbing cream.
How long do the crusts last?
The treated spots turn white, then red, and small crusts form that usually fall off in about a week. Do not pick off the crusts; letting them fall away naturally reduces the risk of pigmentation.
How many sessions do I need?
Deep scars often need several sessions, usually continued at intervals of 4–6 weeks. At each session, we look at changes in scar depth and decide on the next treatment.
Is it combined with other scar treatments?
Since one face often has a mix of scar types, it is frequently planned together with Subcision, Pico Fractional, CO2 Fractional and others in a set order. The combination and order are decided by looking at your scar map.
Are there side effects or precautions?
Redness and crusting occur, and pigmentation may develop if the skin is exposed to the sun during recovery. Rarely, scars may widen or infection may occur. If you are prone to keloids, or are taking or have recently taken oral acne medication, please be sure to tell us during your consultation.
How much does TCA CROSS cost, and how do I book?
The cost varies with the number and extent of scars and the number of sessions, so it is confirmed after examination. Non-covered treatment fees can be found on the pricing page of our website. Booking and consultations are available via Naver Booking, our KakaoTalk channel, or phone (+82-51-710-1891), and you can also consult with us via LINE.
Fees
Pricing depends on the number and extent of scars and the number of sessions, and is confirmed after consultation.
See the fee schedule →References 3
- Korea MFDS medical device registry
- Korean Dermatological Association
- Reviewed by: Dr. Tae Hoon Kim, Medical Director
⚠ Cautions & contraindications
- Active infection or open wound in the treatment area
- Recent strong sun exposure or tanning (increased risk of pigmentation)
- Pregnancy (not recommended due to insufficient safety data)
- Please tell us during consultation if you are prone to keloids
- Currently taking or recently took oral acne medication (isotretinoin type)
Summary & comparison
| Treatment | Target layer | Main change | Duration | How long it lasts | Downtime |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TCA CROSS | — | Encouraging regeneration inside narrow, deep icepick scars | Depends on the number of scars; explained after consultation | Improvements tend to last (builds up over sessions) | Treated spots turn white, then crust (about 1 week / varies by individual) |
| Ultherapy PRIME | L4 SMAS & Muscle | Ultrasound lifting that reaches the SMAS layer | 40-60 minutes depending on the number of shots | Typically 6 months to 1 year (individual results vary) | Immediate return to daily life; temporary swelling or tingling possible |
| Accent Prime Tune Face | L3 Fat layer | RF lifting that tunes texture, firmness, and contour together | 30-50 minutes | Maintained over several months (individual results vary) | Immediate return to daily life |
| Oligio | L2 Dermis | Monopolar RF tightening with a lighter footprint | 30-50 minutes | Several months to 1 year (individual results vary) | Immediate return to daily life |
| PicoWay / PicoWay Resolve | L1 Epidermis | A picosecond laser that shatters pigment into fine particles | 10-30 minutes | Builds over a course of sessions (maintenance needed) | Toning: immediate return; spot and tattoo removal: small scabs for a few days |
Treatments used for the same concern, placed side by side. Which one fits is decided in consultation after the layer is identified.
Aftercare
Pore · scar lasers
These treatments create micro-injuries to trigger regeneration, so care over the following days is directly linked to the result.
Recovery course
- Day of treatmentRedness, warmth and swelling are clearly visible. Focus on soothing and moisturising.
- Days 2–4Fine crusts and flaking appear. Do not peel them off.
- Days 5–7Flaking settles and makeup can be worn comfortably.
- Months 1–3Changes in scars and pores appear over this period. If sessions are split, keep to the interval.
Precautions
- Sun exposure: for at least 2 weeks; apply sunscreen daily
- Sauna, hot baths, strenuous exercise and alcohol: for 3–5 days
- Exfoliating products: for 2 weeks
When to contact the clinic
- Weeping, pus or fever
- Redness getting worse beyond 2 weeks
- Blisters similar to cold sores if you have a history of herpes
Next session · next visitSessions are usually 3–4 weeks apart. Scars often need several methods combined.
Full aftercare guide →
Next step
Wondering if this treatment fits you?
Tell us what concerns you, and after your consultation we will explain the suitable treatment, schedule and fees in detail.