TCA Cross in Apgujeong, Gangnam Seoul
Board-Certified Dermatologist Top 2% in Korea 13+ Years
TCA Cross · quick answer
What TCA Cross does, in one paragraph
TCA Cross (chemical reconstruction of skin scars) is a targeted treatment for deep, narrow acne scars. A dermatologist presses a high concentration of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) into the base of each scar with a fine applicator. The controlled injury triggers new collagen inside the scar, so over several sessions it becomes shallower. At Ever Skin Clinic, a board-certified dermatologist identifies which scars are icepick or narrow boxcar types and treats only those, often alongside other scar methods.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jieun Kim, M.D. Founder & Director, board-certified dermatologist. Dermatology residency at Hanyang University Hospital; adjunct professor, Hanyang University College of Medicine. Meet our dermatologists Last reviewed October 2026
- Ingredient
- High-concentration trichloroacetic acid (TCA), applied scar by scar
- Best for
- Icepick and narrow, deep boxcar acne scars
- Sessions
- Usually 3 to 5, about 4 to 6 weeks apart
- Downtime
- Small dark crusts on treated scars for about 5 to 7 days
- Results
- Scars gradually become shallower over months
The treatment
What is TCA Cross?
Icepick scars are narrow but deep, so lasers that treat the whole surface often cannot reach the bottom of them. TCA Cross works scar by scar: the acid is applied only inside the scar, leaving surrounding skin untouched. The treated scar frosts white, crusts and heals, with new collagen gradually filling it from below.
TCA Cross is one part of a scar plan. Rolling scars need subcision instead, and overall texture is usually improved with Fraxel laser or microneedling, timed between TCA Cross sessions.
What TCA Cross can and cannot do
- Can make deep icepick scars shallower over several sessions
- Can improve some narrow boxcar scars
- Cannot lift soft rolling scars, which are tethered beneath the skin
- Cannot treat broad texture; it is applied to individual scars only
Is it right for you?
Who is a good candidate?
TCA Cross suits people with distinct, narrow, deep acne scars and controlled acne. It can be used in many skin types, but darker skin has a higher risk of temporary darkening or lightening around the scar, so your dermatologist may adjust the concentration and recommend pre-treatment care.
It is not suitable on active acne or infection, and caution is needed after recent isotretinoin or in people prone to keloids.
TCA Cross may suit you if you have
- Narrow, deep icepick scars
- Small, steep-walled boxcar scars
- Scars that did not improve with laser alone
- Controlled acne and healthy surrounding skin
- Time for about a week of small crusts
Your visit
What happens during treatment
A session usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes and needs no numbing for most patients.
- Scar mapping A board-certified dermatologist identifies the icepick and narrow boxcar scars to treat.
- Preparation The skin is cleansed and degreased so the acid penetrates evenly.
- Application TCA is pressed into the base of each scar with a fine applicator until it frosts white.
- Aftercare The skin is neutralised and soothed, and crust care and the next session are explained.
Real patient · before & after
Example of our non-surgical results
This case shows a combined lifting, contouring and skin-quality program, shared as an example of our non-surgical work. It is not a TCA Cross or acne scar result.
Ask us for scar-specific cases at consultation, and your dermatologist will explain what is realistic for your scars.
Photos are shared with the patient's consent and are not retouched apart from privacy blurring. Results differ from person to person and are not guaranteed.
See more before & after photosRecovery & safety
Recovery, side effects and aftercare
Treated scars frost white, then form small dark crusts that usually fall off within about five to seven days, leaving pink spots that fade over a few weeks. Temporary darkening (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), lightening, widening of a scar or infection are possible, which is why the acid is applied precisely by a dermatologist.
Tell your dermatologist if you have taken isotretinoin recently, have active acne, infection or cold sores, a keloid tendency, a recent tan, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Aftercare tips
- Let crusts fall off on their own; do not pick them
- Use a gentle cleanser and the ointment or moisturiser advised
- Apply sunscreen daily to reduce pigment changes
- Avoid scrubs, retinoids and acids until healed
- Skip saunas and swimming until crusts have gone
Questions we hear every day
TCA Cross FAQ
Does TCA Cross hurt?
Most patients feel a brief stinging or burning as the acid is applied to each scar, lasting seconds to a minute. Numbing is usually not needed, and the discomfort settles quickly after treatment.
How many TCA Cross sessions will I need?
Most icepick scars need about three to five sessions spaced four to six weeks apart. Very deep scars may need more. Improvement is gradual as collagen builds inside each scar.
What does my skin look like afterwards?
Treated scars turn white immediately, then form small dark crusts for about five to seven days. Once crusts fall off, pink spots remain and fade over a few weeks. Make-up can usually be used once crusts have gone.
Is TCA Cross safe for darker skin?
It can be used, but darker skin has a higher risk of temporary darkening or lightening around treated scars. Your dermatologist may use a lower concentration, test spots and pre-treatment skincare to reduce this risk.
Can I have TCA Cross during a short trip?
Yes, if you can allow about a week for crusts to fall off and avoid strong sun. A single session gives partial improvement; a course works best, so plan follow-up sessions if you visit Seoul regularly.
Talk to a board-certified dermatologist in Apgujeong
Send us your skin concern and photos on WhatsApp. An English-speaking team member will reply and arrange your consultation.
Mon & Thu 10:00–19:00 · Tue & Fri 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–16:00 · Closed Wed, Sun & holidays
