Procedural Treatments

Exfoliations (peels)

Chemical peels are the most popular procedures for mild to moderate acne. They consist of applying a chosen acid on the skin of the face using a cotton pad. The peels help reduce excess oil and dead skin, leaving the skin soft and without acne.

Depending on the severity of the acne, Chemical peels at one-month intervals may be necessary in combination with other treatments. The most common chemical peels used at Acne-Derma are: salicylic acid along with glycolic acid peels which are used for the treatment of acne and acne scars.

Are chemical peels safe for all skin types?

Yes, they are safe for all skin types. The amount applied for each patient is based on the severity of the acne and the skin color of the patient.

Is there a recovery time when doing a chemical peel?

Although most patients have mild redness and a little peeling, some patients may require no recovery time after treatment.

Are chemical peels painful?

Some chemical peels may cause a warm, tingling sensation to the skin for a few minutes, but chemical peels do not hurt. Ice is often applied immediately after to the skin to soothe and reduce discomfort.

In addition to the treatments offered by health professionals, it is important to pay special attention to your lifestyle, which greatly influences the quality of your skin and its ability to remove impurities.

For example, choose your cosmetics well. Some products sold over the counter may not be suitable for you and often contain oil. Only a quality product, approved by the best dermatologists will ensure the correct care for your skin.

Laser treatments

Laser treatments are very effective in treating acne and acne scarring. Reducing inflammation at the source, the laser contributes to the destruction of the bacterium responsible for acne and thus helping prevent the appearance of new comedones and therefore, new scars.

Is the laser treatment painful?

Laser treatment procedures are not painful. The feeling can vary depending on the sensitivity of each patient. Most of the time there will be a feeling of warmth and slight tingling.

Are there any side effects?

Soon after treatment, the skin may appear reddish or slightly swollen. These symptoms are only temporary and should decrease in the hours following the treatment, leaving the skin calm.

How many treatments are needed?

Depending on the severity of the type of acne, several sessions spaced a few weeks a part may be expected to achieve optimal results. A treatment plan adapted to your own needs will be discussed during the consultation with the doctor.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Photodynamic therapy or commonly known as PDT combines the use of a topical photo-sensitizing agent and red light. This therapy is highly effective for the treatment of moderate to severe acne and can also be used in the treatment of actinic keratoses(precancerous lesions), or early skin cancers.

How does Photodynamic Therapy work?

To begin, a special photo-sensitizing gel is applied to the area to be treated. The application must be absorbed by the skin for 3 hours in order to penetrate the tissues. After the 3 hour absorption the light treatment can begin. Exposure to red light in the presence of oxygen generates a reactive oxygen process that eliminates problem cells while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue. This treatment reduces the size of the sebaceous glands and thus helps to slow the excessive production of sebum to prevent the appearance of new comedones. It is also effective in reducing the appearance of scars and preventing new scars.

Are there any side effects?

This effective but powerful treatment requires special attention. The side effects will of course be temporary and will subside within 48 hours. Redness and swelling may occur and it is important to completely avoid exposure to light for 24 to 48 hours after treatment.

Some people do not want to be bothered by the side effects or the constraints of taking an oral medication regularly. Lasers or PDT are therefore a perfect alternative for these people, offering in addition excellent results. Combined with oral treatment, they can also maximize the achievement of the goal. Our Acne-Derma Specialty Center in Montreal offers a multitude of treatment combinations tailored to your needs.