Since the issues regarding acne have been a key problem in Canada, dermatologists suggest customised treatment plans to provide the best services. Being common and frustrating, it not only affects one’s outer appearance but also disturbs peace of mind. Here, we talk about 8 proven treatments recommended by top Montreal dermatologists.
Research shows that acne affects the face in 99% of cases, and it appears during cold winter. Urban pollution and stress can make acne more stubborn. However, due to the prevalence of acne, dermatologists suggest a relevant treatment plan to improve the skin condition and protect patients from unwanted dilemmas.
| Acne Type | Appearance | Common Causes | Best Initial Treatment |
| Whiteheads | Small white bumps | Clogged pores | Gentle exfoliation, retinoids |
| Blackheads | Dark open pores | Excess oil | Salicylic acid, chemical peel |
| Papules/Pustules | Red, inflamed bumps | Bacteria, irritation | Topical or oral antibiotics |
| Cystic Acne | Painful deep lumps | Hormonal | Oral meds, isotretinoin, laser |
Table 1: Common Acne Types and Their Characteristics
Prescription Topical Treatments
Prescription topical acne treatments include different types of retinoids, like adapalene and tretinoin, preventing clogged follicles and antibiotics, like erythromycin and clindamycin. These reduce inflammation and kill bacteria, while other options like azelaic acid help unclog pores. Retinoids are mostly used in the evening. It starts from a few times a week and increases as per the skin tolerance. However, antibiotics are often combined with benzoyl peroxide to reduce antibiotic resistance.
Oral Medications for Moderate to Severe Acne
Since the issue of acne in Montreal is prevalent, oral medications for moderate to severe acne issues are common. In this regard, isotretinoin, antibiotics, and hormonal therapies for women are considered for extended services.
Antibiotics, like Tetracyclines (such as doxycycline, minocycline) and macrolides (such as erythromycin, azithromycin), are frequently prescribed, and they are often used in combination with topical treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide. On the other hand, dermatologists in Montreal often suggest isotretinoin, an oral retinoid, which shrinks oil glands and kills bacteria and reduces oil production. However, the hormonal therapies, such as combined oral contraceptives and spironolactone, are effective for women facing acne issues, flared with their menstrual cycle, or related to hormonal conditions.
| Medication Type | Use Case | Key Benefit | Medical Supervision |
| Antibiotics | Moderate acne | Reduces bacteria & inflammation | Regular review |
| Hormonal Pills | Hormonal acne | Balances hormones | Gynecologist + dermatologist |
| Isotretinoin | Severe cystic acne | Long-term remission | Monthly checkups |
Table 2: Comparison of Oral Acne Treatments
Professional Chemical Peels
Professionally done chemical peels fights against acne by unclogging pores and exfoliating skin cells with common types, including medium-depth peels for stubborn issues and superficial peels (e.g., salicylic acid, glycolic) for mild acne.
However, treatments are mostly customized by dermatologists to deal with specific concerns, such as scars or acne, and they stimulate the production of collagen to improve skin tone and texture. The depth of chemical peels determines the intensity of treatment results and recovery time. Peels use acids to break the bonds between dead skin cells, which leads to revealing healthier and fresher skin underneath.
Laser and Light-Based Acne Treatments
The laser and light-based acne treatments refer to a therapy, uses various light wavelengths to address scarring by bacteria and address inflammatory acne, stimulating the production of collagen and reducing oil gland activities.
Red and blue LED light therapy, intense pulsed light (IPL), and specific lasers (e.g., pulsed dye lasers) are the most common treatments to fight against acne in Montreal. However, these can be used individually or combined with each other for acne treatment.
Lasers and lights, especially blue light, kill P. acnes bacteria, the primary cause of inflammatory acne. However, some laser and light-based treatments can be effective to target and shrink sebaceous glands, while some of the others, especially the ablative and fractional types, resurface the skin to improve the texture and appearance of acne scars.
Note: These treatments are effective for inflammatory acne; in cases of non-inflammatory acne, such as whiteheads and blackheads, these do not work.
| Laser Type | Target | Results | Downtime |
| Blue Light Therapy | Acne-causing bacteria | Clearer skin in weeks | None |
| IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) | Redness & inflammation | Even tone | Mild |
| Fractional Laser | Scars & texture | Smoother skin | 2–3 days |
Table 3: Popular Acne Laser Treatments in Montréal
Microneedling for Acne Scars
The dermatologists in Montreal (Dermatologue in Montreal) suggest microneedling for acne scars, since it triggers the natural healing process and stimulates collagen production to smooth the scar appearance. This treatment, also known as collagen induction therapy, is effective for depressed and atrophic (sunken) scars, and is considered a reliable option, especially for people with dark skin tones.
The motorised, fine needles create tiny punctures in the skin, while micro-injuries stimulate the skin to produce elastin and new collagen to heal itself. However, the new collagen fills the acne scars, leading to a toned and smoother skin tone.
Note: Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling, a key variation, combines radiofrequency energy with microneedling by using heat to stimulate skin rejuvenation and reduce scars.
Summary
Acne is treatable with the right combination of support and medical care. Since acne issues are prevalent in Canada, various types of acne treatments are suggested by doctors. In this regard, prescription tropical treatment, oral medications, professional chemical peels, laser & light-based treatments and microneedling for acne treatment are some of the major solutions to experience a better skin texture and tone.
Struggling with acne issues?
Not sure what to do, or what could be the possible treatment? Find the best dermatologist in Montreal to experience tailored support to make your skin clear and confident.
