Acne can make you feel self-conscious and even guilty, but it’s important to know that it’s never the patient’s fault. This complex condition is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics and hormones.
Acne is also incredibly common, affecting as many as 5.6 million Canadians according to the Canadian Dermatology Association. While it is most common during adolescence, adults (especially women) experience acne frequently, as well.
Acne blemishes form when a pore becomes clogged with dead skin cells. The pore then accumulates sebum (the oily substance secreted by the skin), which can present as a blackhead or a whitehead.
Pimples occur when clogged pores are infected with acne bacteria, which leads to inflammation, redness, swelling, and pain.
Beyond this, the underlying cause of acne is more complex. Factors like genetics and hormones play a big part. During puberty, for instance, increased androgens trigger an increase in sebum production. However, there are many factors that can impact your hormones all throughout your life, which is why understanding its root cause can be difficult.
The best acne treatments take a multi-pronged approach. They address all of the stages of pimple formation, as well as underlying causes. At Discovery Laser, we offer proactive treatments that can jumpstart your journey to clear, blemish-free skin.
Each patient is different, so feel free to contact us for personal advice based on your unique needs.
Mild and moderate acne can be managed very effectively with topical acne creams and medications. For mild acne, your dermatologist may recommend over-the-counter treatments and while an aesthetician can suggest an acne-fighting skincare regimen. Your doctor may also prescribe medications like retinoids or topical antibiotic creams.
Oral medications are often recommended for treating moderate to severe acne. Antibiotics may help in the short term, especially in combination with topical treatments. For women, hormonal birth control or spironolactone can help manage acne very effectively.
Finally, there’s oral isotretinoin which can be prescribed in severe cases or when acne doesn’t respond to other treatments. It should not be taken lightly due to its severe potential side effects.
Chemical peels jumpstart the process of clearing acne by unclogging pores and removing the dead skin cells that cause pimples in the first place.
At Discovery Laser, we offer a range of peels to target acne, including the ZO Ossential Acne and Oil Control Peel. Using AHAs and salicylic acid, this treatment thoroughly exfoliates the skin. The peel is followed by the ZO Bio-Sulfur Masque, which helps to address the acne bacteria and soothe active breakouts.
Some of our other acne treatment peels include dermalinfusion and Jetpeel. Your medical aesthetician will be able to recommend the right peel for your skin’s needs.
Laser treatments like CO²RE target the skin on a much deeper level than most peels and topical skincare. In addition to encouraging exfoliation, these treatments also trigger healing and renewal deep within the skin.
This makes them an excellent solution not just for acne, but also for the hyperpigmentation and scarring that often accompany this condition. Your dermatologist or medical aesthetician will consult with you to make sure you’re a good candidate for laser treatments.
Sylfirm X is clinically proven to safely and effectively address a number of issues including acne scars, by improving the overall tone and texture of the skin.
Also known as collagen induction therapy, Dp4 microneedling offers similar benefits to laser treatments, especially when it also involves radiofrequency. As the needles penetrate the skin, they trigger microtrauma that encourages the healthy production of collagen and elastin.
Microneedling treatments are usually most effective for shallow or new acne scars. We offer a few different microneedling treatments. Your medical aesthetician will recommend the one that will offer you the best results.
We also offer a wide range of customized home care acne treatment regimen with retinoids, based on your skin type. This will also help you prevent breakouts.
The best way to treat acne is with an effective skincare routine and topical treatments recommended by a dermatologist or medical aesthetician. For severe acne, oral medication might be needed. Peels and laser treatments can speed up the process dramatically by stimulating skin renewal, and they can also address acne scarring.
For those suffering from adolescent acne, the breakouts often stop once puberty ends. However, increasingly, we are seeing acne continue or resurface during adulthood. Without treatment, it can go on for years and even decades. With proper treatment, though, you can expect to see improvements within just a few months.
The best treatment depends on the severity of your condition. It’s always best to follow the recommendations of your dermatologist or aesthetician. Clearing acne can sometimes be a process of trial and error as you work together to find the best treatment for you.
Made with ♥ by The Web Smith
