Acne Treatment in Coquitlam, BC

Acne is caused by clogged hair follicles and pores — a result of excess sebum production, accumulation of dead skin cells, and the presence of acne-causing bacteria on the skin's surface. When these combine inside a pore, they trigger an inflammatory response that produces the various forms of acne from blackheads and whiteheads to deeper nodules and cysts. Hormones — particularly androgens like testosterone — play a central role in driving sebum production, which is why acne is so common during puberty and hormonal fluctuations in adulthood. Stress, certain medications, diet, and genetics can all contribute to acne formation or worsen existing breakouts.

Acne ranges from mild to severe. Grade 1 acne is mild and primarily involves blackheads and whiteheads with a few papules or pustules. Grade 2 is moderate, with multiple papules and pustules primarily on the face. Grade 3 is moderately severe, involving numerous papules, pustules, and occasional inflamed nodules that may extend to the back and chest. Grade 4 is severe nodulocystic acne — characterized by numerous large, painful, inflamed pustules and nodules that carry a high risk of permanent scarring. Early professional intervention is particularly important for Grade 3 and 4 acne to prevent lasting skin damage.

Yes. When acne penetrates deeper layers of the skin and causes significant inflammation, the pore walls can break down and damage surrounding tissue — resulting in permanent scarring as the skin attempts to repair itself. Cystic and nodular acne carry the highest risk of scarring. Picking or squeezing pimples significantly increases this risk. Seeking professional treatment early — before acne reaches a severe stage — is the most effective way to prevent scarring from forming in the first place.

Smile Well Medical & Spa in Coquitlam offers a range of clinically proven acne treatments including AquaFacial for deep pore cleansing and barrier support, chemical peels for active acne and post-acne marks, Spectra Laser for bacteria reduction and pigmentation, Secret Needle RF microneedling for acne scarring and skin texture, and ECO2 fractional CO2 laser for more significant scarring correction. The right treatment or combination depends on your acne type, severity, and skin goals — all of which are assessed during your consultation.

Yes — adult acne is very common, particularly among women, and is often driven by hormonal fluctuations, stress, certain medications, and lifestyle factors. Adult acne frequently presents differently than teenage acne — typically appearing along the jawline, chin, and lower face rather than the forehead and nose — and may require a different treatment approach. The professional treatments available at Smile Well Medical & Spa in Coquitlam are effective for adult acne and can be tailored to your specific breakout patterns and skin type.

Wash your face twice daily with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser using warm water. Use an oil-free moisturizer and choose non-comedogenic skincare and makeup products. Avoid picking, popping, or squeezing pimples — this significantly increases the risk of scarring and spreading inflammation. Keep your hands away from your face throughout the day. Manage stress where possible, as cortisol elevation drives sebum production and worsens breakouts. Remove makeup thoroughly before bed every night. Your provider at Smile Well Medical & Spa will also provide specific at-home care recommendations aligned with your treatment plan.

Results vary depending on the treatment and the severity of your acne. AquaFacial and chemical peels often produce visible improvement in skin clarity and congestion within days of treatment. Laser and RF microneedling treatments produce progressive results over several weeks following each session. For active acne management, most patients see meaningful improvement within four to eight weeks of beginning a consistent treatment plan. Acne scarring correction typically requires a series of treatments spaced appropriately apart with results developing over three to six months.

Yes — acne can have a significant impact on self-esteem, confidence, and mental wellbeing, particularly for teenagers and young adults whose social and professional lives are closely tied to how they look and feel. Feelings of anxiety, social withdrawal, and diminished confidence are common and valid responses to persistent acne. At Smile Well Medical & Spa in Coquitlam, we treat the whole person — not just the skin — and approach every consultation with empathy, honesty, and a genuine commitment to helping you feel better in your skin as quickly and effectively as possible.