Acne Treatment from mild to severe acne in Laval and the greater Montreal area

Acne Overview

Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
Acne is a prevalent dermatological condition characterized by the obstruction of skin pores. These blockages can lead to the formation of blackheads, whiteheads, and various other forms of pimples. Pimples are typically pus-filled lesions that may cause discomfort and pain on the skin’s surface. The clinical designation for acne is acne vulgaris.

Various classifications of acne

Acne can manifest in various forms, such as:

Fungal acne, also known as pityrosporum folliculitis, arises from the accumulation of yeast in the hair follicles, leading to itchy and inflamed skin.

Hormonal acne is a condition that impacts adults experiencing excessive sebum production, which leads to clogged pores.

Nodular acne is a serious type of acne characterized by the presence of pimples on the skin’s surface, along with painful, nodular masses located beneath the skin.

Each type of acne can have a significant impact on your self-esteem, with cystic and nodular acne posing a risk of lasting skin damage, including scarring. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional promptly to identify the most suitable treatment options for your condition.

Which groups of people are impacted by acne?

Acne is a condition that impacts many individuals at various stages of life. While it is particularly prevalent among teenagers and young adults experiencing hormonal fluctuations, it can also manifest in adulthood. Adult acne tends to be more frequent in women and those assigned female at birth. A family history of acne may increase your likelihood of developing this skin condition due to genetic factors.

What is the prevalence of acne?

If you are dealing with acne, rest assured that you are not alone in this experience. Acne is the most prevalent skin condition affecting individuals.

According to the Canadian Dermatology Association acne affects 5.6 million Canadians, which is nearly 20% of the population. More than 80% of acne sufferers fall between the ages of 12 and 24. Acne affects approximately 90% of adolescents and 20-30% of adults aged 20 to 40. In 99% of cases, acne affects the face, but it can also impact the body in 50% of cases.

The most common parts of the body where acne can appear

Acne typically appears in the following common locations on your body:

Throughout your body, oil glands are present in various locations, and acne typically develops in regions with a higher density of these glands.

Symptoms and Causes.

What signs indicate the presence of acne?

Indicators of acne affecting your skin are:

Fluid-filled elevations on the skin (papules).

Small, pigmented elevations on the skin, typically appearing in shades of red, purple, or darker than the surrounding skin tone.

Clogged pores characterized by a darkened surface.

Clogged pores that present with a white surface.

Refer to prominent swellings beneath the skin’s surface that may be associated with pain.

Uncomfortable, pus-filled sacs located under the skin.

The severity of acne can differ significantly, with mild cases producing a few occasional pimples and moderate cases leading to inflammatory papules. In severe cases, individuals may experience the formation of nodules and cysts.

Factors and causes that contribute to the development of acne?

The development of acne is linked to blocked hair follicles or pores. Hair follicles serve as small channels that house hair strands. Numerous glands release substances into these follicles, and when there is an overabundance of material, it results in a clog.

Various factors can lead to the clogging of your pores, including:

A lipid-rich secretion that forms a protective layer on the skin, helping to maintain its health and integrity.

Your skin naturally hosts small quantities of bacteria. However, an excessive buildup can lead to clogged pores.

The process of shedding dead skin cells is a natural part of skin renewal, allowing for the growth of new cells. However, when these dead cells are released, they may become trapped in hair follicles.

Clogged pores occur when various substances obstruct your hair follicles, leading to the formation of pimples. This blockage initiates inflammation, resulting in sensations of pain and swelling. Additionally, inflammation can manifest as skin discoloration, such as redness surrounding the affected area.

Also, various causes in your surroundings can influence the development of acne or exacerbate existing breakouts, such as:

Nutritional factors that contribute to the development of acne

Various studies have established a relationship between particular dietary choices and the onset of acne, for example:

To lower your risk of acne, it is advisable to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet that features a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Pay special attention to those that are rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene, as these nutrients can help alleviate inflammation.

The impact of hormones on acne formation

Acne is mainly a hormonal disorder influenced by androgens, particularly testosterone. It typically becomes noticeable during the teenage and young adult phases of life. Many people may find that their acne worsens around the time of their menstrual period due to hormonal changes. The sensitivity to these hormones, in conjunction with bacteria present on the skin and secretions from the body’s glands, can lead to the occurrence of acne.

Analysis and Testing Procedures

In what ways is acne identified by our healthcare professionals?

Our healthcare professionals can diagnose acne through a skin examination. In this assessment, our specialists will carefully examine your skin to gather information regarding your symptoms. They may also inquire about potential risk factors associated with acne, such as:

In most instances, our healthcare professionals will not need to conduct diagnostic tests for acne. However, if you are experiencing sudden and severe outbreaks, particularly as an adult, they might recommend tests to explore any underlying conditions.

How intense can acne manifestations become?

Acne severity is typically classified into four main levels:

Mild Acne: Characterized by a few non-inflammatory comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) with minimal redness or swelling.

Moderate Acne: Involves more comedones, papules (small red bumps), and pustules (pus-filled bumps). Some inflammation is present.

Severe Acne: Includes nodules (large, painful bumps) and cysts (deep, pus-filled lesions). Severe inflammation and scarring may occur.

Very Severe Acne: Rare but extreme cases with widespread nodules, cysts, and significant scarring.

Methods for treating acne and Supervision at LABELLE Clinic

Various methods exist for treating acne, and the choice of treatment depends on your age, the type of acne present, and its severity. Our healthcare professionals may suggest the use of oral medications, topical treatments, or laser therapies to address your skin condition. The ultimate goal of these treatments is to prevent new pimples from developing and to aid in the recovery of existing blemishes.

Medications for the treatment of acne

Topical acne medications

Topical acne medications are creams, gels, lotions, and washes used on the skin to treat acne. They contain ingredients that address various aspects of acne, such as unclogging pores, inhibiting bacterial growth, speeding up skin cell renewal, or decreasing the formation of comedones.

Oral acne medications

Oral acne medications consist of pills that are ingested to help eliminate acne. When it comes to treating acne, oral medications can be effective when topical treatments alone aren’t sufficient.

Types of medications administered orally for acne could involve: Antibiotics, Isotretinoin, Contraceptives, Hormone therapy.

Extra options for acne treatment in our clinic

In cases where topical or oral medications do not yield satisfactory results for your acne or if you have existing scars, our healthcare specialists may recommend a range of alternative acne therapies to achieve clearer skin, such as steroids, lasers, chemical peels.

Different Light and Laser Treatment Options We Provide for Acne

We provide a range of laser technologies designed to effectively eliminate acne and enhance the radiance of your skin.

xeo® Cutera Laser Treatment

The xeo® Laser Treatment is among the most advanced technologies we offer for non-surgical skin rejuvenation, particularly in the treatment of acne and acne scars. It serves as a powerful combination of laser and photo-facial treatments, which include:

Laser Genesis is a non-invasive laser procedure that effectively addresses acne and its associated scarring, suitable for every skin type. By heating the dermis, it encourages collagen production and reduces blood vessel size, which assists in eliminating dirt, oil, and bacteria that lead to acne, while also promoting a more balanced skin tone.

The Cutera LimeLight Facial takes a different approach by utilizing multiple wavelengths of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) to treat acne and other skin issues, rather than solely targeting the deeper skin layers with a single, focused wavelength.

So...let's go with Laser Acne Treatment

Our Cutera laser features innovative technology that merges Nd:YAG and Xeo laser treatments with light-based solutions to combat acne-causing bacteria and mend skin imperfections. This comprehensive approach promotes an even skin tone, culminating in a radiant and flawless complexion.

Procedure Time (depending on area treated) – 30 – 45 minutes

Recovery Time – mild redness for 1 – 2 days

Pain Level – mild

Results – 4-8 treatments to ensure proper results

To fully reap the advantages, it is essential to maintain an effective skin care routine.

The 1064 nm Nd: YAG quasi long-pulsed laser has shown high efficacy in treating acne. In a case study, patients with moderate to severe acne received this laser treatment, resulting in significant improvement.

Here are the key findings:

Treatment: Patients were treated with the 1064 nm Nd: YAG quasi long-pulsed laser at 8 J/cm² fluence and accumulated 1000 to 4000 kJ at 2-week intervals.

Results: An average of 6.6 treatments were needed to achieve a minimal Acne Global Severity Scale (AGSS) score of 1 to 2.

Efficacy: There was a significant reduction in AGSS scores after only 2 treatment sessions, and this reduction was sustained throughout the study.

Patient Satisfaction: All patients were highly satisfied with the treatment, reporting noticeable and worthwhile improvements in appearance.

The Cutera Xeo platform, which combines IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and Nd:YAG technology, is FDA-approved for treating various skin concerns, including acne. It provides epidermal cooling for patient comfort and can be used individually or in combination for skin aging signs.

Can Laser Treatment Successfully Treat Acne?

Laser therapy is a proven treatment for acne and the scars it leaves behind. It effectively targets the root causes of acne by decreasing oil production and destroying the bacteria that cause breakouts, while also stimulating collagen production to improve skin texture and reduce scar visibility. The effectiveness of this treatment can vary based on skin type, the severity of acne, and the nature of the scars. Therefore, it is important to consult with our skilled specialists to determine the most appropriate treatment options for your specific skin issues.

Does Laser Acne Therapy Cause Pain?

The Cutera XEO Laser Genesis treatment for acne is generally well-tolerated by most patients. It’s a non-invasive procedure that delivers gentle micro-pulses of laser energy to the skin. Here are some key points regarding discomfort:

Minimal Discomfort: Patients typically describe the sensation as warm or tingling, rather than painful.

No Downtime: There’s no downtime after the treatment, and you can resume your daily activities immediately.

Topical Cooling: The provider may use a cooling gel or air cooling during the procedure to enhance comfort.

Remember that individual experiences can vary, but most people find the procedure quite manageable.

Advantages for Laser Treatments

The choice between medication and laser treatments for acne depends on several factors, including the severity of acne, individual preferences, and any underlying health conditions.

Here are some advantages of XEO Laser Treatments for acne:

Non-Invasive: XEO laser treatments are non-surgical and require no incisions or downtime.

Minimal Discomfort: Patients typically experience minimal discomfort, with a warm or tingling sensation during the procedure.

Quick Sessions: Treatment sessions are relatively quick, allowing you to resume your daily activities promptly.

Improves Skin Texture: XEO laser treatments can enhance overall skin quality, reducing redness and improving texture.

Customizable: The XEO platform is customizable based on individual skin type and concerns.

Does acne come back after laser treatment?

Laser skin treatments are effective in eliminating persistent acne scars, resulting in skin that is both smooth and visually appealing. However, it is important to note that these procedures alone will not prevent future acne outbreaks unless appropriate preventive measures are taken.