Some scars tell a story. Other scars meet TCA Paint. Our TCA Paint procedure uses high-strength Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) applied with precision directly to each individual scar, not the surrounding skin. This targeted approach prevents damage to healthy tissue, resulting in significantly faster recovery and fewer side effects than broader chemical peel approaches.
TCA CROSS (Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars) is one of the most clinically validated techniques for ice pick and boxcar acne scars, and SDL's TCA Paint takes it further by treating each scar individually around its perimeter.
TCA Paint is designed for clients with acne scars and deep depressed scar tissue. It works best for ice pick and boxcar scars, and may also be effective for dilated pores. A consultation and physical examination to establish suitability is essential before proceeding.
Your skin is thoroughly cleansed and a small amount of TCA is deposited into the base and along the interior of each scar using a precise applicator. This triggers a localised inflammatory response, resulting in collagen remodelling and the formation of new collagen fibres.
Each scar is treated individually by painting around the perimeter, carefully avoiding the surrounding skin. Treatment takes 5 to 30 minutes depending on the extent of scarring. The treatment does not require topical anaesthesia and is well tolerated. Lasers and microneedling procedures are often performed at the same session as TCA Paint.
TCA is self-neutralising. Once the characteristic white ‘frosting’ of the treated area is visible, the process is complete. Treated areas may remain white for 3 to 9 hours after treatment.
The white spots will turn red for approximately 3 to 4 days before they shed. Complete recovery is usually achieved within 5 to 7 days, though slight redness may persist for up to 2 weeks.
Cleanse using non-soap cleansers and apply moisturiser as normal. Vitamin A cream can be resumed once redness has fully settled.
Phase 1
Skin is stabilised through calming inflammation and barrier function repair. Some technologies and methods include the Lutronic DermaV, the SDL Glass Skin Method, and controlled chemical support.
Phase 2
Targeted device-based treatments are clinically introduced, spaced and layered. Technologies such as the PicoSure Pro may be used for laser toning, pigment management, resurfacing, and texture improvement.
Phase 3
The focus shifts to refining skin tone, pore quality, and smoothness. This phase may involve the Lutronic LaseMD Ultra alongside SDL's depigmentation protocols.
Phase 4
Structured skin maintenance is designed to help sustain results and support skin long-term. This may include regenerative treatments, periodic laser toning, and hydrating chemical support.
*The above is only a general overview of our SDL pathway process. For more information about our specialised 4 phase treatment structure, get in touch with our Sydney Dermal Lounge team.
Every SDL Lounge is grounded in clinical dermatology and wrapped in warmth. Four things are true of every treatment plan we write with no exceptions.
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“This is the place to visit! I am a matured aged person and I visit for anti-aging laser skin tightening and I undergo pigmentation treatment. I feel and look 20 years younger it’s the best my skin has felt and looked in many years.”
“This is the place to visit! I am a matured aged person and I visit for anti-aging laser skin tightening and I undergo pigmentation treatment. I feel and look 20 years younger it’s the best my skin has felt and looked in many years.”
"Life changing. Claudia calmed my red and inflamed sensitive skin, leaving me with clear and glowing skin! These girls gave me my confidence back, I’ll recommend this place to anyone who’ll listen."
“If you want immaculate skin then you have come to the right place, all thanks to Emma and the amazing team at SDL Australia, they made me feel comfortable from the moment I walked in, I struggled with Melasma & hyperpigmentation. The results honestly speak for themselves, all my friends and even strangers now comment on how amazing my skin looks! Thanks so much again to the Sydney Dermal Lounge!”
“I had struggled with scars, pimples, pimple marks, blemishes, and sunburn on my face for a long time before I discovered SDL Australia. At the beginning of my treatment journey, I didn't notice much of a difference. However, as I reached the end of the process, the transformation was truly amazing. Not only did the frequency of pimples reduce significantly, but I also saw a remarkable improvement in the disappearance of pimple marks.”
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