What Is It?
“CROSS” stands for “Chemical Reconstruction Of Skin Scars.” A chemical peel, usually trichloroacetic acid (TCA), is applied directly on the area of the acne scar in order to maximize the effects of the chemical peel and to spare the surrounding skin. During application, the chemical peel is either (1) applied by pressing hard for a few seconds, using a sharpened wooden applicator, until a white frosting appears, or (2) injected directly into scars. TCA concentrations greater than 50% increase the efficacy of the peel because of increased thickening of the skin and collagen production.
This procedure is normally repeated 4 times in 2-week intervals.
Results
Results
Strength of Evidence: Moderate
70% of patients achieved a good (>50%) or excellent (>75%) improvement in scarring after 3 - 4 sessions
Expand for result statistics
Good or Excellent Response
70% of patients achieved a good (>50%) or excellent (>75%) improvement in scarring after 3 - 4 sessions
Moderate Response
91% of patients achieved at least a moderate (>25%) improvement in scarring after 3 - 4 sessions
Side Effects
Side Effects
Medium side effects and adverse reactions