Sun Safety & Actinic Keratosis in Montreal + Advanced Solutions for Acne & Acne Scars

Montrealers enjoy four distinct seasons — from intense summer sun to winter glare reflecting off snow. While our climate is beautiful, it can also expose the skin to UV damage year-round. Sun safety is essential not only for preventing premature aging but also for reducing the risk of actinic keratosis, one of the most common sun-related skin concerns.

At the same time, many clients struggle with acne and acne scars, often made worse by inflammation, hormonal changes, or past sun exposure. With new technologies now available at West Spa Medical, we can address both active acne and textural scarring using Laser Resurfacing, Dual Plasma, and PlaDuo Pro (argon/nitrogen plasma).

This guide explains what you need to know — and how our advanced tools can help restore clarity, smoothness, and confidence.

1. Sun Safety & Actinic Keratosis: What Montreal Needs to Know

What Is Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a rough, scaly patch caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. While AKs are not dangerous by nature, they are considered pre-cancerous lesions — meaning professional evaluation is important.

AKs are more common in:

• Fair or sensitive skin types
• Outdoor enthusiasts
• Individuals with a history of tanning beds
• People who have frequent sunburns
• Anyone over 40, although younger adults may also develop them
  

Common areas include the face, scalp, ears, chest, arms, and hands — all regions frequently exposed to the sun.

Why Montreal's Climate Increases UV Risk

Even though Montreal has long winters, UV exposure is still significant.

• Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, increasing exposure.
• Outdoor winter sports add prolonged sun contact.
• Summer brings intense heatwaves and high UV indexes.
• Cloudy days still allow UV penetration.
  

This means sun protection isn’t seasonal — it’s essential year-round.

Early Signs of Actinic Keratosis

You may notice:

• Rough, sandpaper-like patches
• Red or brown marks
• Flaky areas that recur despite moisturizers
• Sensitive or itchy spots
• A dry “bump” on sun-exposed skin
  

If you notice a persistent rough patch that doesn’t disappear, it’s important to consult a licensed medical professional for assessment and monitoring.

How to Protect Your Skin Year-Round

Daily prevention is the most effective strategy:

• Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every day
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours outdoors
• Wear hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing
• Avoid peak sun hours (10 a.m.–3 p.m.)
• Consider tinted SPF for added protection against visible light
  

Prevention reduces the risk of AKs and supports healthier, more youthful-looking skin.

2. Acne & Acne Scars: Modern Treatment Options at West Spa Medical

Acne is one of the most common skin concerns we see, and the scarring it leaves behind can affect both texture and confidence. Fortunately, medical aesthetics has evolved dramatically. West Spa now offers several advanced modalities tailored to acne-prone and post-acne skin.

Laser Resurfacing (Thulium 1927nm): Targeted Precision for Texture & Pigmentation

Laser resurfacing is exceptionally effective for:

• Acne scars (superficial or textural)
• Pigmentation left from breakouts
• Uneven skin tone
• Rough texture
• Sun-damaged skin
  

The Thulium 1927nm laser precisely exfoliates damaged layers while stimulating new collagen. This helps soften scars, refine pores, and brighten the complexion with minimal downtime.

Ideal for: Clients seeking a more even, smooth surface and long-term collagen renewal.

PlaDuo Pro: Dual Plasma Technology for Acne & Redness

PlaDuo Pro is one of the most innovative non-ablative plasma technologies available today. Combining argon plasma and nitrogen plasma, it targets acne and acne scars at multiple levels.

Argon Plasma (Blue mode):

• Helps reduce active acne
• Minimizes redness and inflammation
• Supports clearer, calmer-looking skin
  

Nitrogen Plasma (Yellow mode):

• Stimulates collagen remodeling
• Improves superficial scarring
• Enhances overall texture and radiance
  

This dual approach makes PlaDuo Pro an excellent option for acne-prone, rosacea-prone, or sensitive skin types.

Dual Plasma Resurfacing (Nitrogen + Argon): Gentle Yet Powerful

This technology offers skin revitalization with minimal downtime. It helps improve:

• Textural irregularities
• Post-acne scars
• Redness and inflammation
• Early signs of aging
• Lack of smoothness and firmness
  

Because it works at controlled energy levels, it suits a wide range of skin concerns and skin types.

Which Treatment Is Best for You?

Every skin is unique. Depending on your concerns, your plan may include:

• Laser for resurfacing & hyperpigmentation
• PlaDuo Pro for redness, inflammation & acne scars
• Dual Plasma for revitalization and texture
• Combination therapies for enhanced outcomes
  

During your consultation, our medical team evaluates:

• Skin type
• Active acne vs. scarring
• Severity of pigmentation
• Sensitivity and inflammation
• Lifestyle & recovery time preferences
  

This ensures your treatment plan truly fits your skin’s needs.