CROSS Technique (TCA Cross)
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Side Effects

“CROSS” stands for “Chemical Reconstruction Of Skin Scars.” A chemical peel, usually trichloroacetic acid (TCA), is applied directly on the area of the...

“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.

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Done
June 3, 2009

Pros:

made my skin look new

Cons:

a week of down time

use it and love your face get it done by a pro./licensed
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May 1, 2009

Pros:

Fades acne scars, eliminates breakouts, smooths skin. No serious down time.

Cons:

Scars still visible, but fading after repeated use (2 times so far).

TCA EZ Peel from Anais has been very effective. Nothing else has faded my scars as quickly, but since I have tough skin, I need to layer or use a higher concentration. I will continue to use as recommened and be patient. The down time associated with this FOR ME has been very slight (light peeling) and small scabs that formed from applying more to the acne scars (CROSS method still using the EZ Peel concentration). CROSS method is suppose to be done with a higher concentration to be most effective, so maybe that's why the acne scars are still visible, but better. I also applied make up during the entire healing process and it did not seem to irritate me at all. Again, this is my experience, so use with caution.
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March 24, 2009

Pros:

People say it will make you look up to 10 years younger, gets rid of fine lines, makes nasolabial folds much flatter, kills bacteria, unclogs pores, makes skin smoother, gets rid of red scars

Cons:

Makes face bright pink at first, can cause skin weeping while healing, brown patchy skin everywhere, can not go out in public for about 7 days (too humiliating due to horrible looking skin)

I love this stuff! I have only used this once. I really recommend starting at 12.5% and bumping it up. I accidentally used much stronger and it made my face look horribly burnt for the first few days -I cancelled dates to see my boyfriend. Now my skin is healing and the healed areas look much smoother than they have in years -I have the skin I remember having at 16 (minus the acne)! I'm 24 now, and years of lifeguarding and picking at cystic acne left my face so old-looking. The pitted scars were the worst all along my cheeks, and I had countless tiny bumps under the skin that seemed to be filled with sebum or pus. I used microdermabrasion but nothing made my skin feel clean and new. It always felt dirty because of the trapped blackheads and zits under the skin. Now, I don't see any more blackheads. It seems like my skin has a new start. As an added bonus, TCA kills bacteria! There are some residual scars left but as soon as I can, I'm doing the cross method. I highly recommend TCA.
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Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.
Find a Doctor Using The American Acacemy of Dermatology Website

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.
Find a Doctor Using the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Website