Types of Acne

By Dr. Matete Mathobela2 min read

Acne is a common condition mainly in teenagers. One of the common sequelae for acne is acne scarring. The common type of acne scars are

  • Ice pick scars -narrow and less than 2 mm wide, punctiform deep scars

The opening is usually wider than the base forming a v shape

  • Rolling scars -depressed, distensible scars with gentle sloping edges

  • And box scars -shallow or deep punched out u shaped scars. Maybe round, polygonal or linear

TCA CROSS

What is it?

  • Chemical reconstruction of skin scars using high concentrations of trichloro acetic acid.

  • It is done to improve the appearance of atrophic scars

  • The acid is applied directly to the base of atrophic scars with a sharp wooden applicator

  • This induces inflammation followed by increased collagen formation, resulting in decreasing the depression of the scar

  • Common treated scars are ice pick scars because of acne, chicken pox scars and enlarged pores

Before the procedure

  • Patients are often started on prescription strength acne medications

  • They are advised to use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily

  • Patients prone to pigmentation are started on pigmentation reducing treatments

During the procedure

  • The doctor will clean the skin

  • Followed by degreasing with an alcohol-based solution

  • The acid will be applied to the treatment area until frosting of the skin occurs within 10-15 seconds

  • Most patients report a slight stinging of the treated area

  • Patients are advised to continue with moisturizing and usage of sunscreen

  • Treated area will form scabs that are to be left to flake off on their own

  • Prescription medications can be restarted a week after the procedures

  • Treatment can be repeated every 2 weeks

  • The treatment is suitable for all skin phototypes

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