At CanStrive, we treat acne as a clinical condition, not a cosmetic one. Persistent or recurring acne in adults, particularly in medium, deep, and very deep skin tones, involves multiple biological drivers that require a structured multi-phase approach. A single facial or a generic skincare routine will not resolve it. A properly designed corrective program will.
The Two Types of Acne We Treat
Inflammatory Acne
Characterized by active papules, pustules, nodules, or cysts. Driven by a combination of bacterial activity (C. acnes), sebum dysregulation, follicular hyperkeratinization, and
immune-mediated inflammation. In deeper skin tones, inflammatory acne almost always leaves PIH in its wake, creating a compounding cycle of active breakouts and post-inflammatory discolouration.
Retention Hyperkeratosis (non-inflammatory acne)
Characterized by comedones, congestion, milia, and textural irregularity without active inflammation. Driven by abnormal follicular keratinization, impaired desquamation, and comedogenic homecare products. Often misidentified as ‘closed pores’ or ‘bumpy skin’. Requires a different clinical approach to inflammatory acne.
Why a Corrective Program is Necessary for Persistent Acne
Over-the-counter acne products address bacteria or surface oil. They do not address the follicular keratinization, inflammatory signaling, barrier dysfunction, or microbiome imbalance that drive persistent adult acne. A clinical program addresses all of these simultaneously across three structured phases.
How CanStrive Treats Acne
- Phase 1 normalizes the follicular environment, reduces inflammatory load, and repairs the barrier before any corrective procedures. Beginning corrective treatment in the presence of active inflammation increases the risk of PIH and reduces treatment efficacy.
- Phase 2 targets bacterial load, regulates sebum production, and normalizes follicular keratinization using Aerolase NeoClear (acne-specific laser protocol), clinical peels calibrated for acne and skin tone, SkinPen microneedling where appropriate, and retinoid or targeted homecare actives.
- Phase 3 prevents recurrence through ongoing follicular and inflammatory management.
Many acne clients require an ongoing maintenance homecare protocol and periodic in-clinic maintenance sessions to prevent relapse.
Treating Acne and PIH Simultaneously
In deeper skin tones, active acne and PIH frequently coexist and reinforce each other. Every new inflammatory lesion is a new PIH trigger. The CanStrive Corrective Protocol addresses both conditions through the same three-phase framework, with treatment tools and sequencing that target acne pathways and pigment pathways concurrently. You do not need two separate programs.
Treatment Tools Used
- Aerolase NeoClear: The acne-specific protocol of the Aerolase Neo Elite laser. Reduces C. acnes bacteria, sebum production, and inflammation through targeted photothermal action without surface damage.
- Clinical peels: Selected for follicular normalization and anti-inflammatory action. Formulation and strength calibrated to skin tone.
- SkinPen microneedling: Used in the corrective phase for clients with concurrent post-acne scarring and textural concerns.
- Homecare: Regimen designed to normalize keratinization, support the barrier, and avoid comedogenic or irritating ingredients that perpetuate the acne cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I have tried everything. Why would a clinical program be different?
Most over-the-counter and even prescription topical acne treatments address one or two drivers of acne. A clinical program addresses the full picture: follicular keratinization, bacterial load,
sebum regulation, inflammation, and barrier function, simultaneously and in sequence. It also includes in-clinic treatments that products alone cannot replicate.
Q: I have dark skin. Will the laser treatments be safe for my skin tone?
Yes. The Aerolase Neo Elite and NeoClear protocol is one of the safest laser technologies for darker skin tones. It operates at parameters that target sebum and bacteria without the thermal surface injury that risks PIH in melanin-rich skin. Shivali will confirm your skin’s readiness before any laser treatment begins.
Q: I have both active acne and dark marks from old breakouts. Can both be treated?
Yes. The Corrective Protocol addresses both simultaneously. The acne and PIH pathways are treated within the same program framework, with tools and sequencing that target both conditions without aggravating either.
Begin Your Acne Journey at CanStrive MedSpa & Wellness Clinic
If you have been dealing with persistent acne and have not found a clinical approach that addresses it properly, a consultation with Shivali is the best next step. She will assess the type and severity of your acne, identify the contributing factors, and build a program around your skin’s specific needs. Book online or call (905) 569-3555.