DERMA LESIONS
medspa & training center
Calgary Acne Facials | Extractions, HydraFacial, Chemical Peels & LED
Acne Facials in Calgary, HydraFacial
Clearer skin starts here. Our Calgary, AB clinic provides medical-grade acne facials—manual extractions, BHA/AHA peels, HydraFacial, and LED blue/red light—performed by licensed providers using Health Canada-approved devices. We treat teens and adults across Fitzpatrick I-VI, including sensitive and skin-of-color. Same-day and evening appointments available. Book a consultation to get a personalized plan.
Ready to start your journey to clearer skin?
Understanding Acne Facials
What Is an Acne Facial?
A Clinical Approach to Clearer Skin
An acne facial is a professional skincare treatment designed to go beyond the surface and target the root causes of acne. Unlike a traditional spa facial, it is a clinical procedure that helps to reduce inflammation, unclog pores, and address active breakouts.
Overview
An acne facial is a specialized treatment that goes beyond regular facials. It specifically targets the root causes of acne through deep cleansing, professional extractions, and therapeutic treatments. Unlike basic spa facials, acne facials use medical-grade skincare products and techniques to address active breakouts and prevent future ones.
How it targets acne-causing (C. acnes, comedones)
Acne facials work by targeting Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes), the bacteria responsible for inflamed acne. Through careful exfoliation and extraction of comedones (blackheads/whiteheads), these treatments clear blocked pores. Ingredients like salicylic acid (BHA) penetrate deep into pores, while LED light therapy (blue/red) kills bacteria and reduces inflammation.
How It Works
The Science of a Smoother, Blemish-Free Complexion
How Acne Facials Work: Extractions, BHA/AHA Peels, HydraFacial & LED
Our acne facials use a multi-step approach, combining deep cleansing with manual extractions to clear pores. We also incorporate medical-grade peels, advanced HydraFacial technology, and therapeutic LED light therapy to control bacteria and reduce redness.
Step-by-Step: Treatment, Mask, SPF
Your acne facial follows these essential steps:
Technologies: High-Frequency, LED Blue/Red
We combine multiple approaches for optimal results:
- HydraFacial technology for gentle extraction and hydration
- Dermaplaning to remove dead skin cells
- High-frequency device to kill bacteria and provide comfort post-extraction
- LED light therapy (blue/red) for bacterial control and inflammation reduction
- Medical-grade skincare products for maximum efficacy
Actives: Salicylic (BHA), Niacinamide, Azelaic Acid
Key ingredients include:
- Salicylic acid (BHA) for deep pore penetration
- Glycolic acid (AHA) and lactic acid (AHA) for surface exfoliation
- Niacinamide for oil control and calming redness
- Azelaic acid for inflammation and PIH reduction
- Benzoyl peroxide for bacterial control
Barrier Repair (Ceramides)
Treatments include lymphatic drainage to reduce puffiness and support healing. Barrier repair with ceramides ensures skin maintains moisture while healing. We also support collagen stimulation and elastin support for improved texture.
Candidate Suitability
Who's a Candidate?
A Safe and Effective Treatment for All Skin Types
Acne facials are a great solution for both teens and adults with acne-prone skin. This gentle but effective treatment is suitable for all Fitzpatrick skin types (I-VI) and is customized to meet your unique needs and concerns.
Active Acne
Acne facials benefit anyone dealing with breakouts, from teenagers experiencing hormonal acne to adults with persistent skin concerns. We treat both active breakouts (papules and pustules) and aftermath concerns like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and scarring. Blue/red LED and azelaic/niacinamide specifically help calm redness and reduce PIH over a series of treatments.
Medications & Special Circumstances Rosacea)
You're not a candidate if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, have active infections in the treatment area, or have bleeding disorders. A thorough patient consultation ensures your safety.
Important considerations include:
- Currently taking isotretinoin (Accutane)? Wait 6 months after completing treatment
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Salicylic acid strengths and benzoyl peroxide may be limited; we emphasize pregnancy-safe options like gentle enzyme exfoliation, LED red light, and niacinamide
- Active herpes simplex (cold sores): History may require prophylactic antivirals for procedures involving peels—coordinate with your provider
- Rosacea: Active, inflamed rosacea may flare with heat/steam and strong acids; we offer gentler, cooling protocols or defer during flares
Benefits: Fewer Smoother Texture
Key benefits of regular acne facials include:
- Significant reduction in active breakouts and prevention of new ones
- Smaller-looking pores through deep cleansing and oil regulation
- Reduced redness and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- Smoother skin texture through controlled exfoliation
- Improved oil balance without over-drying
What to Expect
What to Expect at Our Calgary Clinic
Your Journey to Clearer Skin
Your treatment begins with a thorough skin analysis to tailor the facial to your specific needs. The session is performed in a clean, professional environment, with your provider explaining each step to ensure you are comfortable and informed.
Consultation & Personalized Plan
Your visit begins with a thorough skin consultation/assessment. We review your medical history, current skincare routine, and treatment goals to create a customized plan addressing your specific concerns.
Pre-Appointment Prep (Pause Retinoids/Exfoliants, Sun Protection)
Stop using retinoids (adapalene, tretinoin) 3-5 days before treatment. Avoid sun exposure and arrive with clean skin. For deeper skin tones, we prefer lower-strength peels, no aggressive extractions, mandatory daily tinted mineral SPF 30-50, and strict sun avoidance for 1-2 weeks post-treatment.
Comfort Measures During Sterile Extractions
We prioritize your comfort with options including cooling applications, desensitizing gel, and high-frequency treatment post-extraction. All extraction tools are sterilized per protocol to ensure safety.
Time on Site & What to Bring
- Session length: 45-75 minutes depending on treatment complexity
- Arrive makeup-free for accurate assessment
- Bring your current skincare product list
- Bring any dermatologist prescriptions you're using
- Avoid workouts/sauna 24 hours before appointment
Downtime and Recovery
Downtime, Recovery & When to Resume Actives
A Quick and Simple Path to Healing
Most clients experience minimal downtime. Mild redness typically resolves within 2-4 hours. Some peeling may occur 2-3 days post-treatment. Wait 48-72 hours before resuming retinoids, acids, or benzoyl peroxide. Apply SPF 30+ daily to protect healing skin.
What's Normal vs. When to Call
Normal effects include:
- Mild redness lasting up to 48 hours
- Light flaking or peeling days 2-3
- Temporary tightness or sensitivity
Contact us immediately if you experience:
- Redness persisting beyond 48 hours
- Swelling, hives, or allergic reaction
- Crusting or scabbing
- Worsening pain or intense stinging
Results, Sessions Needed & Maintenance Plan
Initial improvements appear within 24-48 hours. Significant clearing typically occurs after multiple treatments. Typical ranges by severity:
- Mild acne: 3-4 sessions
- Moderate acne: 4-6+ sessions
- Severe acne: Co-managed with dermatology
At-Home Regimen Synergy (Retinoids, Benzoyl Peroxide, Non-Comedogenic SPF)
Sustain and enhance results with a curated home regimen including non-comedogenic SPF, gentle cleanser, niacinamide, and provider-guided use of retinoids/benzoyl peroxide. Medical-grade at-home skincare maintains results between facials.
Cost & Investment
Cost of Acne Facials in Calgary
Transparent Pricing for Effective Care
The cost of an acne facial can vary depending on the specific services included, such as HydraFacial or LED therapy. We offer competitive pricing and flexible payment options, with packages available for those undergoing a series of treatments.
What's Included
Your facial will include a comprehensive, step-by-step treatment plan with a deep cleanse, exfoliation, extractions, and a custom mask to target your specific acne concerns.
-
Each acne facial includes consultation, full treatment, aftercare products for the day, and follow-up support. Prices vary based on treatment complexity and add-ons.
Packages & Savings
We offer discounted packages for a series of treatments to ensure you receive the full regimen needed to achieve lasting results and save on the overall cost.
-
Save with treatment packages designed for optimal results. Most clients benefit from our 4 or 6-session packages, offering 10-15% savings over individual sessions.
Consultation Fees (If Applicable)
Your initial consultation is complimentary, with the cost of your first treatment applied toward your customized acne facial plan.
-
Initial consultations are complimentary when booked with treatment. Stand-alone consultation fees may be applied toward your first treatment package.
Alternatives & Combination Treatments
Alternatives & Complements: Chemical Peels, LED, Laser Genesis, Microneedling
Building a Comprehensive Plan for Optimal Skin Health
Acne facials are a foundational treatment that can be combined with other therapies for enhanced results. Our team can help you create a customized plan that may include chemical peels, laser genesis, or microneedling to target your specific concerns.
Enhance with:
LED Therapy
LED therapy (blue/red) as standalone treatment for inflammatory acne and maintenance between facials
Laser Genesis
Laser Genesis for deeper acne scars
Sterile Technique
Targeted chemical peels between facials
Microneedling
Microneedling for textural improvements
At-Home Skincare
Medical-grade at-home skincare regimens (retinoid, BPO, niacinamide, non-comedogenic SPF)
Dermatology Co-Management
Dermatology co-management for severe cases
Why Choose Us
Expert Care and Uncompromising Safety
Why Choose Us: Licensed Providers, Health Canada-Approved Devices, Sterile Technique
Your safety is our top priority, which is why all our acne facials are performed by licensed professionals. We use Health Canada-approved devices and maintain a strict sterile technique to ensure a safe and effective treatment environment.
Our
Licensed Providers
Licensed providers with specialized acne training
Approved Products
Health Canada-approved devices and products
Sterile Technique
Sterile extraction techniques and protocols
Flexible Appointments
Same-day and evening appointments available
Personalized Plans
Personalized plans for sensitive skin and skin of color
Our Calgary Location
Calgary Location, Parking & Directions
Conveniently Located for Your Skincare Needs
Our clinic is situated in a central Calgary location with easy access and ample parking. We strive to make your visit as convenient as possible, from your initial booking to your final appointment.
Neighbourhoods
Conveniently located to serve Downtown, Beltline, Mission, Kensington, and Inglewood residents. Easy access via Calgary Transit with ample parking available.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Most Common Questions Answered
We have compiled a list of the most common questions we receive about double chin treatments. Our goal is to ensure you feel fully informed and confident about your decision, from the science behind Belkyra to your long-term results.
An acne facial specifically targets breakouts using medical-grade products, professional extractions, and treatments like chemical peels or LED therapy. Regular facials focus on general relaxation and maintenance.
Prices typically range from $120-250 per session, depending on treatment complexity. Package deals offer better value for multiple sessions.
Anyone with active acne, clogged pores, or post-acne marks. Not suitable for those on Accutane or with active skin infections.
Cleansing, steam, exfoliation, extractions, treatment application, mask, and SPF protection.
Initial improvements within 24-48 hours, with best results after 3-4 treatments.
Temporary redness, mild peeling, or purging may occur. Serious complications are rare with proper technique.
Stop retinoids 3-5 days before, avoid sun exposure, and arrive with clean skin.
Gentle cleansing, hydration, sun protection, and avoiding harsh products for 48-72 hours.
Look for licensed estheticians or nurses with specialized acne treatment training.
Yes, including chemical peels, laser treatments, LED therapy, and prescription medications.
No, wait at least 6 months after completing Accutane before having an acne facial.
HydraFacial offers gentler extraction with hydration, while traditional acne facials allow for more thorough manual extractions. Your provider will recommend based on your needs.
Professional extractions using sterile tools actually prevent scarring by properly clearing pores. Improper at-home picking causes damage.
Yes, we safely treat Fitzpatrick IV-VI skin types. We prevent PIH by using lower-strength peels, avoiding aggressive extractions, and requiring daily tinted mineral SPF 30-50 with strict sun avoidance for 1-2 weeks post-treatment.
Yes, with modifications. We limit salicylic acid strengths and benzoyl peroxide, focusing instead on pregnancy-safe options like gentle enzyme exfoliation, LED red light therapy, and niacinamide.
h peels, avoiding aggressive extractions, and requiring daily tinted mineral SPF 30-50 with strict sun avoidance for 1-2 weeks post-treatment.
For active acne, acne facials with extractions work best. Laser Genesis targets deeper scars and overall texture. Chemical peels address both but require more downtime. Your provider will recommend the best option during consultation.
Ways to With Us
Supporting Collagen Production with Retinoids and Peptides
You have different questions?
Our team will answer your questions. We ensure a quick response.
Ready to achieve clearer, healthier skin? Our Calgary acne facial experts are here to help.
Results vary by individual. This information is for educational purposes and not medical advice. Consult with our licensed providers for personalized treatment recommendations.