What is Acne
Conveniently located to serve Western Canada.
Before & After images are available during consultation.
EDMONTON’S ACNE CLINIC
WHAT IS ACNE?
Edmonton’s Acne Clinic provides a full range of medical and surgical treatments for acne and acne scarring under the direction of Dr. Sapijaszko – Board Certified Dermatologist. Acne (medically known as acne vulgaris and commonly known as blackheads, whiteheads pimples, or zits) is a very common skin condition mostly seen in teenagers (for some people it can persist into adulthood). Acne continues to be the most common skin problem affecting up to 99% of teenagers as well as, to a lesser extend, young adults.
Although acne eruptions are temporary, lasting anywhere from months to years, the disfigurement persists for life. Although mostly seen on the face, it can also occur on the neck, scalp, chest, and back. Prevention of acne scarring and improvement of unsightly acne lesions is the most common reason for patients to seek medical attention. In addition, while not life-threatening, acne can have a profound impact on social and psychological functioning. Early and appropriate therapy is needed to prevent long-term scarring and dyspigmentation from occurring.
THERE ARE MANY CAUSES OF ACNE INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING:
- Increased oil (sebum) production
- Presence of bacteria in the oil glands
- Plugging of the hair/oil gland units
- Inflammation
There are many types of acne. Just beneath the surface of the skin lie many tiny glands called sebaceous (oil) glands. Their function is to collect and excrete the oily substance called sebum, to keep the skin healthy. Acne is an inflammatory condition of the hair follicle/oil gland (pilosebaceous unit) and it happens when oils (sebum) are produced by active or overactive sebaceous glands. However, the tiny pathway for the sebum to escape often becomes clogged, and a bacterium grows inside. In a short time, the area swells up, and forms a pimple on the skin. This mostly happens during puberty under the influence of changing hormone levels.
In the presence of bacteria, especially propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) the oils are converted to more inflammatory substances that lead to the development of blackheads (open comedones), whiteheads (closed comedones), red-inflamed bumps, pustules or cysts. When not treated properly, these changes can lead to permanent acne scarring and significant psychological effects.
Dr. Sapijaszko believes that the effective treatment of acne requires a thorough examination and history. Acne is a medical condition and it deserves to be treated in a professional manner deserving of expert care and attention. Appropriate acne therapy to ensure prompt improvement will help lead to long-term remission and minimize scarring and improve self-esteem.
Acne is treatable. Acne scarring is preventable. Treatment options need to be tailored to each patient. You and your face deserve the best care available and Dr. Sapijaszko and his team are ready to help.
Edmonton’s Youthful Image Clinic has been helping clients for over 25 years and it is one of Edmonton’s longest, same owners operated, clinics in Alberta!
If you are interested in Edmonton acne care, please contact us to see if you are a candidate for this popular therapy!
The information provided on this website is for Canadian patients only and is meant for information and education that is based on experience and research.
