Laser and Skincare MedSpa in Red Deer offers a multi-therapeutic approach for the treatment of acne. Acne can be an embarrassing condition that leaves many sufferers feeling self-conscious and, at times, socially withdrawn. This is especially true for teenagers where the problem can magnify existing angst regarding peer relationships. Even insurance companies have recognized the difficulties acne can present in a beauty/fashion conscious society. Some costs of acne treatments are now covered by insurers, giving more and more individuals the opportunity to seek medical treatment. Acne treatments have evolved over time with many types of treatment now available depending on the type of acne (comedonal, pustular, cystic and mixed) being treated and the patient’s skin type. In the past, oral antibiotics and prescribed topical creams and lotions were considered the most effective medical treatments available to the physician, with a success rate of approximately 40 – 50%. Today there are a variety of combination therapies used alongside traditional medicine including: microdermabrasion, chemical peels, photodynamic and IPL (light) therapy, electronic heat devices and a vast array of skin care products. The success rate for clearing moderate to severe acne will depend on the dermatological management of the condition. It is important, therefore, to look for a doctor who is interested in and experienced with the latest and most effective treatments available for patients. In some cases, the treatment of acne is covered by third party insurance. Patients that are residents of Alberta are able to access free treatments covered by Alberta Health Care if attending Laser and Skincare MedSpa.

About Acne

Acne is a common skin condition in which the pores of the skin become clogged with debris made up of dead skin cells and sebum (oil). Bacteria acting on this debris cause irritation and inflammation, resulting in a blackhead, whitehead, pimple or nodule. While it is thought that hormones play a role in the cause of acne, several other factors also promote blockage of pores include bacteria, cosmetics, oil, and detergents. Acne treatments are designed to specifically modify and control these factors that can vary from patient to patient.

Accutane

Accutane is a powerful drug (chemically related to vitamin A) that is prescribed to treat severe acne. It was used almost exclusively years ago and had a success rate of over 80% for most patients, with marked improvements noticeable after just one or two courses. In most cases the first signs of healing occur after two to three weeks of treatment, although it may take as long as one or two months before others begin to see the benefits. Often, redness and itching of the treated skin occurs initially, with the irritation disappearing with continuous treatment. Because the side effects of this strong skin medication are numerous and in some cases dangerous it is important to closely follow the instructions provided by your physician. Accutane can be beneficial for some patients, although it is most often best used in conjunction with other treatments when treating severe acne.

Health Canada has restrictions on physicians providing information on prescription medications. Please go to the website below for more information on Accutane.

https://www.drugs.com/accutane.html

Photorejuvenation

Photorejuvenation is now the gold standard for non-ablative skin treatments. The most recent advance – Photodynamic Therapy combined with I.P.L. (Intense Pulsed Light) – is known as Photodynamic Skin Rejuvenation. Photodynamic Skin Rejuvenation involves the application of Levulan (a natural photosensitizing agent), which is then activated with a light laser or Blu-U light. This results in significant improvement in moderate to severe cystic acne. Additionally, treatment with photodynamic skin rejuvenation will improve skin texture, pore size and pigmentation.

Levulan Photodynamic Therapy for Acne

Unclogs pores and shuts down sebaceous gland activity (often the root cause of the formation of acne cysts). Resistant and cystic acne frequently fail to respond to typical control measures and Levulan Photodynamic Therapy can bring relief by minimizing acne and preventing scarring that may otherwise occur. There is also a noticeable improvement in skin tone and texture (as can be seen in the photo above).

What to expect with Photorejuvenation Treatments

An active scrub or microdermabrasion will be done prior to applying Levulan. Incubation time is then required in a dark room, after which you will be positioned under a Blue-U light or I.P.L. (light). Levulan is washed off after treatment and a sun block is applied to the treated area before leaving our Red Deer clinic. 

Post-treatment: You should stay out of bright light and sunlight for 24 hours after photodynamic skin rejuvenation to avoid skin damage and pigmentation problems. We will recommend topical treatments to apply in the days following the procedure to enhance results and take care of your skin. Skin will turn various shades of pink to red and some mild swelling is possible over the first 3-7 days following treatment. Some mild crusting may develop, with the dead skin cells sloughing off around day 3. Approximately 5-10% of patients will have some degree of redness for longer than a week. Any redness can be covered with Jane Iredale makeup or other oil-free natural mineral products.

BLU-U

Laser and Skincare MedSpa uses the most advanced treatments, including the use of an acne device called Blu-U. This device uses a specific wavelength of blue light to selectively activate photosensitizers within the microorganism (Propionibacterium acnes) that causes acne. The Blu-U creates a toxic bactericidal environment in the sebaceous gland that inhibits the growth of bacteria that can obstruct the sebaceous follicle and result in the formation of acne lesions. Blue light therapy treatment is particularly effective for cystic and oily skin. Treatment with the Blu-U is completely painless and very efficient, with sessions taking only 30 minutes or so. The patient sits in the light booth at our Red Deer clinic and has their face, chest, or back exposed to the light at 7 – 10 day intervals in a treatment series. Blue light therapy is a great treatment by itself but it can also be combined with other therapies to enhance results for acne clearance. Call today for your complimentary consultation with us to see if this therapy is right for you or for your children. What makes this such a popular treatment? With blue light therapy for acne, Red Deer residents of all ages can see results with this safe, painless and simple treatment that’s great for kids and even pregnant women. In some cases insurance will cover this procedure, so please ask our staff for a letter (included with your receipt) for your insurance carrier, if needed.