Acne Bootcamp

Acne Bootcamp

Acne is a common skin disorder that affects approximately 90% of teens and young adults. Acne can be described as mild, moderate, or severe. Mild acne is defined as < 20 comedones, papules, or pustules without scarring and can typically be treated with topical treatments. Moderate to severe acne includes prominent acne with many comedones and inflamed papules, pustules, and nodules. It often involves more than one area of the skin (including the back and chest as well as the face) and typically has associated scarring. Moderate to severe acne requires a more aggressive approach to reduce permanent scarring. Regardless, all acne can have a profound psychological impact on self-esteem and can contribute to anxiety, depression, and social isolation.

The Infirmary has developed an Acne Bootcamp to meet the needs of teens and adults in Ottawa. All patients are first seen in a complimentary consultation, and a treatment plan is developed based on the severity of the acne. In order to achieve the best outcomes, a multi-modal approach is used that includes some or all of the following recommendations:

1. Medical grade skin care

2. LED blue light therapy

3. Chemical peels

4. Prescription medication (if appropriate), provided through a Nurse Practitioner

5. Microneedling with targeted serums

6. Radio-Frequency Microneedling for acne scarring

7. Non-ablative skin resurfacing for hyperpigmentation

Because of the chronic nature of acne, patients have the option to continue to be monitored by a nurse practitioner as needed for maintenance management of acne and for acute flares of acne after the active treatment protocol has been completed.