Acne Treatment

Acne occurs when a hair follicle or pore within the skin becomes plugged with oil (sebum), trapping a certain type of bacteria and allowing it to grow. Testosterone increases sebum production. The culprit bacterium in acne is Proprioniibacterium acnes. At first either whiteheads or blackheads aka comedones form.  Whiteheads (closed comedones) develop from sebum and bacteria trapped below the surface of the skin. Blackheads (open comedones) occur when the trapped bacteria and sebum are partly exposed to the air. The reaction of the skin to these bacteria is inflammation, which typically creates redness and possibly a pimple. Deeper areas of inflammation can create a cyst or nodule, which may be painful, pus-filled, and create a bump on the skin.

Prevention & Treatment

What causes acne? One myth is that acne is triggered by certain foods high in fat or processed sugar (eg. chocolate and potato chips). And while some individuals may notice that certain foods worsen their acne, no studies have established a causal link between diet and acne. Similarly, no evidence supports the contention that Coca-Cola™ or milk causes acne flare-ups. Another myth is that stress causes acne; in fact, stress can worsen existing acne, but it does not cause it. Neither does dirt on the skin cause acne; in fact, scrubbing too much can irritate skin and worsen acne. Sun exposure does not improve acne; a tan will only temporarily make acne appear less blotchy. In truth, the risks of tanning (eg. skin cancer, wrinkles and blemishes) far outweigh the benefits of smoothing blotchy skin.

Acne can be controlled, but it is not curable. Before discussing acne treatments, it must be understood that it takes time for acne to clear. On average, 6–8 weeks* are necessary for noticeable results. Also, not everyone’s acne is the same, nor will it necessarily respond similarly to treatment.

A gentle skin cleanser should be used twice a day. You should talk to your skin specialist about which one is best for your skin type. If your skin is oily, products such as SkinTX Foaming Cleanser works well. Try not to pick at pimples or black/whiteheads as this can cause spreading of acne to non-infected skin. Any cosmetics used should be non-comedogenic; this information can be found on the labels. Topical medications and products (those put on the skin) can be used in less severe cases of acne, but oral antibiotics (those taken by mouth) and other medications may be needed. Another popular and effective treatment may be deep cleansing facials and/or extractions.

Deep Cleansing Facials / Extractions

A personalized Deep Cleansing Facial with Extractions in order to cleanse, gently extract clogged pores, massage and hydrate your skin. This facial helps to heal some of the most problematic acne. Read more...

Scar Treatment

To deal with acne scarring, options include chemical peels, IPL / Intense Pulse Light Treatment, similar to Broadband Light (BBL), laser resurfacing and a skin care product regime.

An individual consultation defines a patient's most effective acne treatment. Expected results are discussed and realistic treatment outcomes are established. 

Cost may be covered by MSP, or if elective, then private pay – we will advise you during your consultation with a Medical Doctor or nurse expert. Number of treatments required and ongoing skin care regime will also be determined during your consult. We provide an expert recommendation – and you choose the right treatment for you.

You are unique – and so is your skin treatment – come in for an expert consultation to reduce or eliminate acne issues!