Acne Clinic

Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It typically occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to the formation of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and sometimes more severe inflammatory lesions like nodules and cysts. Acne most commonly appears on the face, but it can also affect the neck, chest, back, and shoulders.

Several factors contribute to the development of acne, including:

• Excess Oil Production: The sebaceous (oil) glands in the skin can produce too much oil, which can clog pores.
• Clogged Pores: When dead skin cells and oil combine, they can block hair follicles, creating an ideal environment for acne-causing bacteria to thrive.
• Bacteria: Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is a bacterium that lives on the skin and can contribute to acne when it multiplies excessively within clogged pores.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during puberty, pregnancy, or menstruation, can increase oil production and contribute to acne.
• Diet and Lifestyle: Some studies suggest that certain dietary choices and lifestyle factors, like high-sugar diets and stress, may exacerbate acne in some individuals.
• Family History: A family history of acne can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.

Treatment options for acne vary depending on its severity. Mild to moderate cases of acne may be managed with evidence based/medical grade topical treatments containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxy acids as well as laser treatments we have in clinic at RIO. For more severe cases, our NP MJ, may recommend prescription medications, including oral antibiotics, topical retinoids, or oral contraceptives (for females with hormonal acne). In very severe cases, isotretinoin (Accutane) may be prescribed, but it comes with potential side effects and requires close monitoring.

It’s important to note that treating acne can take time, and what works for one person may not work for another. At Refined Image Ottawa we have an acne clinic where MJ and Nathan can provide personalized recommendations based on the individual’s specific condition.

Additionally, maintaining good skincare habits, such as gentle cleansing, avoiding excessive scrubbing, and protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure, can help manage and prevent acne breakouts. If you’re dealing with acne.

At RIO we understand that acne can be very frustrating and getting professional help can be difficult with long wait times and lack of resources in the Ontario Health care system. We have started an acne clinic at RIO with Nurse Practitioner MJ and Skin Specialist Nathan to help patients get to the bottom of their acne without the long wait times. 

Nathan Strom

Nathan has been a passionate professional in the woman’s health and medical aesthetic industry for over a decade. He has a huge passion for the skin especially treating the skin with energy devices (Lasers) and skincare.

Nathan refers to himself as a Personal Trainer for the skin. He understands the intricate differences about each layer of the skin and what is required to help you look and feel your best.

Healthy skin is beautiful skin. For best results your skin requires a blend of different laser treatments to target each layer with skincare acting as the nutritional fuel for that extra special result. The more consistent you are the better the results you will have. Just like physical and mental fitness.

In his spare time Nathan works globally as an industry Key Opinion Leader speaking at many conferences teaching other professionals how to successfully use skincare and energy devices in their practice for best patient results.

Nathan is excited to join Sandra and the team at RIO to help all patients find a consistent skincare and energy device regimen to maximize their healthy skin results.