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Acne is one of the most common dermatologic skin conditions facing teenagers and adults today. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne vulgaris is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting nearly 50 million individuals annually from early adolescence through adulthood. Although pimples and breakouts are common, getting the right acne treatment isn’t always so straightforward. With an abundance of over-the-counter topical treatments and skincare products, from benzoyl peroxide spot treatments to salicylic acid cleansers and retinoid creams, it can be a challenge to select just the right treatment options for one’s specific type of acne. An experienced dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, can customize your acne treatment plan to help you manage your breakouts and prevent and treat acne scars.

There are a number of factors that cause acne, whether it be a mild breakout of blackheads and whiteheads or persistent severe acne, including genetics, hormone changes, skincare regimens, environmental factors, diet, stress, and sleep patterns. To treat acne, Dr. Green starts by collecting a thorough medical and family history and physically evaluating your skin condition. Once it’s been assessed which underlying factors are contributing to the breakouts, the types of acne present, and the patient’s skin type and age, Dr. Green will recommend the acne treatments best suited to their particular needs. Often, the best acne treatment is a unique combination of acne medications like isotretinoin, spironolactone, or oral antibiotics, specially formulated skincare products, in-office treatment options like chemical peels or laser treatments, and topical prescription medications like clindamycin, erythromycin, or retinoids. Consulting an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, is the best first step regarding customized acne treatment.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience treating some of the most discerning men and women from around the world, including acne scar and acne treatment. Dr. Green takes pride in the relationships that she builds with her patients, taking the time required to understand the specific skin concerns of every individual to artfully customize their treatment approach in a way that centers the particular needs and goals of each patient. She developed a line of specially formulated skincare products, MGSKINLABS Inc., that includes advanced acne products designed for individuals with acne-prone skin. For her dedication to her patients and expertise, she is consistently voted as one of New York’s best dermatologists by Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, and New York Magazine. When you work with Dr. Green to resolve your acne and reduce your acne scars, she will recommend a combination of the best skincare, acne medications, and in-office treatments to provide you with ideal results and a clear complexion that lasts.

What causes acne?

Acne vulgaris is a medical skin condition that occurs when dead skin cells and excess sebum clog the oil glands at the base of hair follicles in the skin. Sebum is a type of natural skin oil that keeps it healthy, soft, and moisturized. Sebum is usually released from the pores onto the skin, but when too much sebum is produced, or an accumulation of dead skin cells has built up in the pores, the sebum can get trapped in the hair follicle. When sebum and dead skin cells clog the pores, the naturally occurring skin bacteria rapidly grow, causing inflammation, redness, and pain. Acne may occur anywhere on the body where there are sebaceous glands, though it is most commonly found in areas such as the face, chest, and back, where there is the highest distribution of sebaceous follicles. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the most common skin condition in the U.S., affecting over 50 million individuals each year.

Although anyone can potentially be affected by acne, some factors increase the likelihood of having a breakout. Acne is considered to have a genetic component, usually running in families. Patients can simply be more prone to experiencing acne breakouts as a result of the way their skin naturally produces and secretes sebum. Hormone changes, such as those during puberty, pregnancy, and around one’s menstrual cycle, can also cause breakouts. Androgens, in particular, have been linked to higher rates of acne breakout. Androgens are sex hormones, like testosterone, that have been shown to cause acne to develop in men and women alike by increasing sebum production in the sebaceous glands. Breakouts can also be caused by factors like stress, diets that are rich in sugar and fat, and poor sleeping or hygiene habits.

When you consult with an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, you will thoroughly discuss your family and medical history, as well as your skin care regimen and other environmental factors that may be contributing to your acne breakout. Dr. Green may collect and send a sample of blood to the laboratory to be evaluated for any hormonal abnormalities that could indicate increased breakout. Determining the underlying cause of your acne with Dr. Green is the best first step in understanding and managing your breakouts.

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Before and after Accutane 1 and 5 months

What are the different types of acne?

Six different types of acne lesions fall into one of two main categories: inflammatory or non-inflammatory. Inflammatory acne is most closely associated with the development of acne scars, as the inflammation of these acne lesions can cause extensive damage to skin tissue and lead to irreparable collagen loss. Papules, pustules, cysts, and nodules are inflammatory types of acne. Blackheads and whiteheads are non-inflammatory types of acne.

  • Papules – Papules are acne lesions that appear as raised bumps on the skin, typically 1 centimeter or smaller in diameter. Papules are lesions that do not contain pus but rather are composed of solid material. Pimples can develop into abscesses if they later become filled with pus.
  • Pustules – A pustule is an acne lesion, usually less than 1 centimeter in diameter, that is filled with pus and appears as an inflamed and red bump on the skin.
  • Blackheads – A blackhead is a type of comedone that has an opening at the surface of the skin. Exposure to oxygen is what gives this type of acne its dark color, as the buildup of sebum, dead skin cells, and debris becomes oxidized.
  • Whiteheads – A whitehead is a closed comedone. Whiteheads are a type of pimple that forms when dead skin cells and sebum clog the pores. They do not have any exposure to air but instead are covered with skin, preventing oxidization of the material built up inside the pore.
  • Cysts – Cysts, often referred to as “blind pimples,” develop deep below the surface of the skin where topical treatments can not penetrate. Cysts are lesions that are filled with pus and do not come to a “head” like other types of acne but present as large, red bumps that are often painful. Cysts should be treated by a dermatologist as soon as possible in order to prevent acne scars from developing effectively.
  • Nodules – Nodules, much like cysts, are larger and more painful than many other types of acne. These lesions form deep below the skin’s surface, too, and do not form a “head” but instead look like a firm red bum. The biggest difference between cysts and nodules is that cysts are pus-filled, whereas the material within nodules is a harder, firmer substance. Like cysts, nodules are closely associated with the formation of acne scars and should be treated by a dermatologist immediately.

What is the most common type of acne?

The most common types of acne lesions are whiteheads and blackheads. These types of acne form when oil glands at the base of hair follicles in the skin produce excess sebum that, in combination with dead skin cells, bacteria, and dirt, clog the pores in the skin. Whiteheads are closed comedones, meaning that the excess sebum and dead skin cells within the pores are covered with skin and do not have any exposure to oxygen. Blackheads are open comedones, and their dark color is due to the oxidization of the debris, sebum, and dead skin cells inside the pores that occur after exposure to air. Other types of acne include pustules, papules, nodules, and cysts. A board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, should always be your first resource to treat acne. Working with a dermatologist helps guarantee the acne treatments in your plan are well-suited to the specific types of acne you have, as well as best prevent acne scars from forming.

What are the best topical acne treatments?

The best topical acne products work by speeding up skin cell turnover, decreasing sebum production, reducing inflammation, and inhibiting bacterial growth. Some of the most effective topical acne treatments include skincare products containing active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids. Topical antibiotics and hormonal acne treatments may also be prescribed by a dermatologist like Dr. Green, depending on the type of acne you’re dealing with. Understanding your breakout is important to treat acne, as different types of acne lesions may be more responsive to certain topical treatments than others. Below is a list of some of the best topical treatments for acne:

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is a powerful ingredient against comedonal acne, such as whiteheads and blackheads. Salicylic acid is oil-soluble and treats acne by gently chemically exfoliating the skin. Since it is oil-soluble, salicylic acid is able to penetrate deep within clogged pores and break up sebum.

Benzoyl peroxide is an excellent skincare ingredient for treating inflamed types of acne, such as pimples and blemishes. This ingredient works by killing bacteria on the skin that contribute to the development of acne, as well as by drying up the excess sebum within the pores.

Dapsone is a topical acne treatment that your dermatologist may prescribe for mild or moderate acne breakouts. Dapsone, known by its brand name Aczone, reduces the amount of acne-causing bacteria on the skin. This helps to eliminate acne lesions and clear up the complexion. Other topical antibiotic treatments, such as Clindamycin and Erythromycin, work to reduce acne similarly.

Retinoids and retinoid-like products such as adapalene are a class of skincare products derived from vitamin A that works by exfoliating dead skin cells from the top layers of the skin. Dead skin cells, sebum, and debris are sloughed away at an increased rate, preventing the material from becoming trapped within the pores that cause acne. Dryness is the most common side effect that patients experience from using adapalene and other retinoid topical treatments, as well as mild flaking and some redness. It is normal for patients to undergo a skin purge when they begin treatment with a product like adapalene, as it works to reveal new and healthy skin cells below the surface layers; it also removes the material in the pores that clog them. A purge may last for up to twelve weeks after you begin using a new acne product like Differin. Other topical retinoids that are available in prescription strength when you consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green include tazarotene and tretinoin (Retin-A).

Winlevi is a topical prescription medication for acne designed to treat acne breakouts due to hormonal changes in both men and women. This topical acne cream contains clascoterone and is an androgen receptor inhibitor, meaning that it blocks hormones in the skin from producing too much sebum. By preventing the production of excess oil, Winlevi helps prevent and treat acne breakouts and keeps the pores unclogged. The most common side effects of using Winlevi include mild redness and dryness in the treatment areas.

When you consult with Dr. Green regarding your acne treatment, she will recommend the topical treatments and skincare products that are best for your skin type and the type of acne you’re dealing with.

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Female treated for acne with Accutane: 5 months

How do Dermatologists Treat Acne Breakouts?

The most effective acne treatment for any given patient varies depending on the type of acne they have. Patients may have a single kind of acne or a combination of types. Depending on the underlying cause of acne and the type of acne present, treatments can include oral antibiotics (such as doxycycline, minocycline, and tetracycline), topical antibiotics, oral contraceptives (birth control pills), chemical peels, laser treatments, and HydraFacial. During your acne treatment consultation with Dr. Green, you will determine which combination of in-office treatments, acne medications, and skin care products is best suited to clearing up your skin.

  • Isotretinoin, commonly known as Accutane, is often recommended for the treatment of severe acne, cystic acne, or recalcitrant acne, which has not responded to any other treatment, including oral antibiotics and retinoids. The most common side effect associated with this oral vitamin A derivative is dry skin, lips, and eyes. Patients have to take certain precautions while using Accutane, as the medication can cause increased photosensitivity as well as elevate liver enzymes. Refraining from alcohol consumption and limiting dietary fat intake are recommended for patients on Accutane. In addition, female patients need to have monthly blood tests for pregnancy throughout Accutane since the medication can cause severe birth defects in a developing infant.

  • Acne surgery entails the opening of acne lesions and removal of excess sebum, debris, and dead skin cells, followed by intralesional corticosteroid injections to shrink the acne. Intralesional cortisone (corticosteroid) injections are used to reduce inflammation in pimples and acne cysts. If the cystic acne is large, the lesions may need to be drained first before cortisone is injected into the lesion. Usually, this type of acne benefits from topical and oral antibiotics as well. Oral Antibiotics such as Minocycline, Tetracycline,  and Doxycycline are highly effective in treating acne pimples, rosacea (adult acne), and inflammatory acne. Topical antibiotics like Erythromycin and Clindamycin are commonly prescribed for reducing acne-causing bacteria and minimizing inflammation associated with acne.

  • HydraFacials are a medical-grade hydradermabrasion treatment that is used to cleanse, gently exfoliate, and intensely nourish the skin deeply. The vortex fusion technology is exceptional for extracting sebum, dead skin cells, and debris that are trapped in the pores and causing acne. The infusion of antioxidants, vitamins, and peptides that follow the cleansing and exfoliating steps helps to enhance the natural protective barrier of the skin. It can be used to aid in the prevention of breakouts.

  • Chemical peels are a great treatment option for rejuvenating the overall appearance of the skin, exfoliating away dead skin cells, and helping to treat acne breakouts. Dr. Green often employs trichloroacetic acid to perform chemical peel acne treatment. TCA application stimulates skin cell turnover and clears the pores of the skin, resulting in a clear, healthy, smooth complexion.

  • Spironolactone is a type of hormonal therapy used to treat breakouts in patients with an underlying hormonal imbalance, such as patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. For these patients, spironolactone will help decrease the androgen (testosterone) levels and treat their acne. In other patients, it helps regulate the hormonal changes that can cause adult acne.

  • Oral Contraceptives are used to manage hormonal acne breakouts by regulating your hormonal cycle. The FDA has approved oral contraceptives to treat women with hormonal acne. Two popular brands of birth control pills to treat acne are Yaz and Ortho Tri-Cyclen, which combine estrogen and progestin. Some potential side effects of birth control pills are weight gain, nausea, mood swings, and an increased risk of blood clots. Women should avoid cigarette smoking while on oral contraceptives as this increases their risk for blood clots.

  • Winlevi is a topical prescription medication for acne designed to treat acne breakouts due to hormonal effects in both men and women. This prescription acne cream contains clascoterone and is an androgen receptor inhibitor, meaning that it blocks hormones in the skin from producing too much sebum. By preventing the production of excess oil, Winlevi helps prevent and treat acne breakouts and keeps the pores unclogged.

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Before & After: Accutane 3 months

What is the most popular acne treatment?

There are many different types of acne treatments available, ranging from oral acne medications to topical treatments and over-the-counter skincare products. The most effective acne treatment plan for any given individual must include the treatment options best suited to the underlying factors that cause acne. A board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, is the best guide for properly managing breakouts and preventing acne scars. While the most appropriate acne treatments for a patient will depend on their unique skin condition, age, and skin type, there are some specific acne treatments that most people are familiar with.

The most popular topical treatments include products containing active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids. These ingredients help to exfoliate dead skin cells, break up excess sebum, and keep the pores clear. One of the most popular oral acne medications is isotretinoin, widely known by the brand name Accutane. Accutane is a derivative of vitamin A and treats acne through various mechanisms, making it effective against almost all types of acne breakouts. Isotretinoin reduces the size of the skin’s sebaceous glands and the amount of sebum production while it increases the rate of skin cell turnover. Isotretinoin is incredibly effective, with a high success rate of nearly 90% for those who complete the standard 5-month course—about 50% of people who take Isotretinoin report never having to treat acne again afterward. Of the 5% of patients who do not have success after five months, 50% are completely acne-free after the second course of Isotretinoin. Patients who are breastfeeding, pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or struggling with hormonal acne breakouts are not candidates for Isotretinoin. Depending upon Dr. Green’s expert evaluation of your skin condition and the underlying contributing factors, she may recommend other acne treatments, such as topical or oral antibiotics (clindamycin, erythromycin, doxycycline), hormonal therapy (oral contraceptives, spironolactone, Winlevi), in-office procedures (chemical peels, laser treatments, Hydrafacials), or certain lifestyle changes (targeted skincare, improving sleep, reducing stress, maintaining a healthy diet).

Do Acne Treatments Work?

Acne treatment works when the skin care products, topical treatments, in-office procedures, and acne medications in your protocol are designed for your skin type and to reduce the specific types of acne that you have. When looking to treat acne, it’s important to assess what underlying factors are contributing to the breakouts, the types of acne present, and the patient’s skin type and age. Consulting with an experienced board-certified dermatologist for a customized acne treatment plan helps ensure that you get the right acne treatments for your skin type and your particular needs. Dr. Green is an authority in the field of cosmetic dermatology with over 25 years of experience treating patients with active breakouts and residual acne scars to reveal a healthy, radiant, and clear complexion that lasts. When you work with Dr. Green to treat acne, she takes the time necessary to understand the underlying factors that cause acne and physically assess your skin condition. Your acne treatment with Dr. Green will be specific to the causes of your acne and the types of acne that are present, guaranteeing that your acne treatment protocol works best for you and your skin.

Will topical treatments help hormonal acne?

Topical treatments are a common way to help reduce the appearance of hormonal acne. Typically, Dr. Green will recommend topical retinoids as a first step for acne treatment, mainly to reduce the effects of unwanted dead skin cells clogging a patient’s pores. Topical retinoids can help prevent new acne breakouts with continued treatment and have minimal side effects from long-term use. Retinoids are topical skincare products derived from vitamin A and work by accelerating the rate of skin cell turnover, sloughing away dead skin cells, and preventing the pores from clogging. A popular, topical retinoid-like product that is available over the counter is Differin Gel (adapalene gel). However, Dr. Green can provide prescription-strength concentrations of retinoid creams, like tretinoin, for patients experiencing more severe acne.

Winlevi is a prescription medication and popular, topical treatment option for hormonal acne that contains the medication clascoterone. Clascoterone is an anti-androgen topical medication. As a topical anti-androgen medication, Winlevi works by inhibiting androgen activity in the sebaceous follicles, blocking androgen hormones in the skin from producing too much sebum. By preventing the oil glands from producing excess sebum, Winlevi helps prevent future hormonal acne breakouts. Winlevi treats hormonal acne in a similar way to the oral medication spironolactone. Spironolactone is a hormonal therapy reserved for female patients, as it can cause undesired side effects in males. Male and female patients can use topical Winlevi safely and effectively.

During your initial consultation with Dr. Green for acne treatment, she will collect a thorough medical and family history, physically assess your skin condition, and potentially request lab tests to determine the best course of treatment, including any topical treatment options.

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28 year old female, acne treatment – 3 month

Is acne treatable?

Yes! Acne vulgaris is one of the most common skin conditions in the world, and thousands of patients every year are treated for their acne breakouts to achieve and maintain clear skin. It’s important to treat active pimples as soon as possible in order to prevent acne scars from developing since acne scars are often even more challenging to treat than the initial breakouts. There are many effective treatment options for acne breakouts, including topical treatments, oral medications, lifestyle adjustments, in-office treatment options, and skincare products. Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, has the experience and expertise to create a customized acne treatment plan that caters to an individual’s specific needs and skin type, guaranteeing the most appropriate and effective treatment plan is developed. It’s important to consult with a dermatologist as soon as possible regarding active acne in order to prevent acne scars from forming. Should acne scars form, however, there are many effective treatment options for reducing their appearance, including microneedling, chemical peels, dermal fillers, and laser resurfacing treatments.

When do you need to consult a dermatologist for your acne?

Ideally, consulting with a board-certified dermatologist is step one for patients who are struggling with any type of acne, whether it be mild acne or moderate to severe acne. Treating breakouts quickly and correctly is the best way to prevent acne scars from developing, which are often more difficult to treat than the acne itself. If you have a family history of acne, have inflammatory acne that has started to lead to the development of acne scars, or have acne that is persistent or unresponsive to over-the-counter treatments, you should consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green. Although these indications may mean that it’s time to visit a dermatologist, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Green at any time to learn more about how to keep your skin healthy, radiant, clear, and youthful. Patients with acne breakouts often have feelings of self-consciousness due to their breakouts, and early treatment of their skin condition can restore feelings of confidence.

In addition, if your acne lesions have resolved and you are someone who is now struggling with the appearance of acne scars that have been left behind from previous breakouts, Dr. Green in New York City can help. Just as there are many varieties of acne lesions, there are many different types of acne scars that may form, including icepick scars, boxcar scars, and rolling scars. No two patients with acne, however, will develop acne scars in the same way. For this reason, it is important to customize acne scar treatment for each patient. Dr. Green is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist who is recognized and appreciated around the world for her holistic approach to treating acne and acne scars.

MGSKINLABs Topical Skincare Products to Treat Acne Breakouts

Many patients who struggle with acne benefit from using a skincare regimen that includes the right active ingredients to fight acne. Internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green has developed a line of topical skincare products that are incredibly effective for acne blemishes. The Acne Kit from MGSKINLABs consists of a three-step system that is designed to clear skin as well as minimize the appearance of pores. The Pore Minimizing cleanser contains glycolic and salicylic acid, perfect for eliminating acne. These two active ingredients gently exfoliate the skin’s surface, reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne breakouts, and break down excess oil to clear acne. The Retexturizing Pads provide at-home peel benefits, exfoliating away dead skin cells and keeping the pores from becoming clogged to prevent acne breakout. Finally, the acne spot treatment containing benzoyl peroxide should be applied to any active acne lesion. Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria and helps unclog pores. Of course, during your consultation with Dr. Green, you will have the opportunity to discuss your medical history and skin concerns thoroughly, and she will work with you to create a customized skincare protocol that incorporates the right topical medications and products to provide you with a healthy, clear, smooth complexion that lasts.

How much does acne treatment cost?

The cost of acne treatment is influenced by a number of contributing factors, including the experience level of your provider, the geographic location of the office in which you are treated, the extent of your insurance coverage, and the severity and type of acne being treated. Acne breakouts that are more severe, including cysts and nodules, will require more involved acne treatments than breakouts that consist of blackheads or whiteheads. During your consultation for acne treatment with Dr. Green in her private dermatology office, located in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, you will discuss your medical history in-depth and any previous treatments that you may have had. Some blood samples may be collected and sent to the lab for evaluation if deemed necessary. You will then have the opportunity to develop a customized acne treatment plan with Dr. Green that works best for you and addresses the underlying causes of your acne. At this time, the total cost of your acne treatment can be estimated.

Which treatment is good for acne? What acne treatment should I use?

Rather than suffer through trial and error with over-the-counter acne treatments, your acne treatment plan should be customized by an experienced board-certified dermatologist to meet your specific skincare needs. Upon your initial consultation for acne with Dr. Michele Green in NYC, she will collect a thorough medical history, physically assess your skin condition, and likely collect a blood sample to be tested for hormonal imbalance. Once it’s been determined what is causing the acne, Dr. Green will recommend a unique combination of oral medications, topical treatments, specially formulated skincare products, and in-office procedures for permanently resolving your breakouts and achieving a smooth, clear, healthy complexion.

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Accutane, 6 months before and after

Will acne go away without treatment?

Acne often begins in one’s teenage years and, for many, can persist into adulthood. While some breakouts may resolve on their own, any pimple has the potential to leave behind an acne scar if it isn’t treated properly. The inflammation associated with acne can cause permanent damage to underlying skin tissue, resulting in an acne scar. Acne scars are often more challenging to treat than the initial breakouts, which is why prompt, effective acne treatment is so important. Consulting an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, is the best first step regarding customized acne treatment. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience treating acne and acne scars, and she will work with you to develop a plan that’s best suited to your particular needs, aesthetic goals, skin type, and skin tone.

Which treatment is best for acne-prone skin?

The type of acne treatment that works best for each patient is catered to their specific need. A number of factors, including genetics, hormones, skincare routines, hygiene, diet, and more, can cause acne breakouts. Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist is the best way to understand what underlying and external factors are contributing to the breakouts, as well as determining what the most effective treatment will be. In addition to using a proper skincare routine, Dr. Green typically suggests a unique combination of oral medications and topical treatments to help her patients achieve and maintain healthy, clear skin. When you meet with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, she will work with you to develop a customized acne treatment plan that is best suited to your skin type and the type of acne that is present.

What acne treatments are safe during pregnancy?

During pregnancy and while breastfeeding, treatment options for acne breakouts are much more limited. The reason for this is that topical and oral acne treatments have the potential to enter the bloodstream and, if pregnant, have the potential to affect a developing infant. Many acne treatments have not been evaluated for safety in pregnancy and are not advised for use in order to avoid risking any side effects. Azelaic acid, clindamycin, and erythromycin are topical acne treatments that are considered safe for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals. Always consult with both your board-certified dermatologist and OBGYN prior to beginning any acne treatment while pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. Isotretinoin, Spironolactone, and Tazarotene should never be used during pregnancy. While pregnant, continue the use of your gentle cleanser twice a day and refrain from applying products that may clog the pores of the skin and cause acne to form. In addition, never pop your pimple! Attempting to perform your extractions can worsen an infected acne lesion and lead to scarring, which is often more difficult to treat than acne itself.

Is acne treatment considered cosmetic? Will my insurance cover acne treatment?

Acne is considered a medical skin condition, and most health insurance policies will cover acne treatments with a dermatologist. Additionally, HSA/FSA can usually be applied to skincare products, acne medications, and topical treatments for acne treatment. Although insurance typically covers acne treatment, it is advised to reach out to your insurance provider to access more information about your specific benefits and coverage before undergoing any treatment.

Are acne treatments supposed to burn?

No, acne treatment should not burn the patient. Many patients express that certain topical treatments for acne are associated with a burning or tingling sensation. A slight tingling sensation is a common experience while using active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide. Still, if the sensation is severe or is accompanied by redness or other skin irritation, the product should be discontinued. One of the benefits of consulting with a board-certified dermatologist for your acne treatment is that you have an experienced and knowledgeable skincare expert monitoring your treatment and progress, who can make adjustments in your acne treatment plan as necessary. This guarantees you receive the most effective treatment for your breakouts without any skin irritation. Dr. Green in NYC is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience treating some of the most discerning individuals in the world, and she will work with you to create a customized, comfortable skincare regimen that best suits your skin condition, type, and particular needs.

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Age 25-30: 6 months before and after Accutane

Can acne treatments make acne worse? Why is my acne getting worse with treatment?

Acne treatments may worsen the appearance of your blemishes if you are using the wrong ingredients for your skin type or the type of acne you have, using acne products incorrectly, or if you’ve recently started a new kind of acne treatment.

When you start a new acne treatment, whether it is a topical treatment or an oral acne medication, your skin may go through a purging period. A purge describes the process of skin shedding the dead skin cells, debris, and sebum that are in the pores deep below the surface of the skin. This can look like red bumps on the surface of the skin that may be mistaken for an acne breakout, though it can often be expected when starting a new acne treatment that works by stimulating skin cell turnover at an increased rate. Give your new acne treatment a few months to determine if it’s effective before giving up on it due to a purge period; skin may look slightly worse before it starts to look better. Being treated for acne by a dermatologist like Dr. Green means that throughout your acne treatment, your progress will be continually evaluated, and it can be determined whether you are purging or if you would benefit more by changing treatment methods.

Using acne products incorrectly could indicate a number of different things. Scrubbing skin too aggressively with an abrasive cleanser can result in skin irritation, dryness, and worsening of acne. It’s recommended to cleanse your skin twice a day with a gentle cleanser containing an active ingredient such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, depending on the type of acne you have. Benzoyl peroxide is best suited to treating inflammatory acne, whereas salicylic acid is better for treating comedonal acne, such as blackheads and whiteheads. Both of these ingredients can be rather drying, and using too many acne products in your routine at once, using your acne products too often, or using the wrong kind of active ingredient can result in dry, flaky, irritated skin and worsened acne breakout.

Consulting with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green is the easiest way to learn which skincare ingredients would be best for resolving your acne breakouts and the correct way to deliver those active ingredients in your skincare routine. Dr. Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist with a special interest in helping patients with acne-prone skin understand their skin condition, get the right treatment, and achieve healthy, smooth, clear skin. Her line of specially formulated skincare products, MGSKINLABS, Inc., carries a three-step Acne Kit containing the essential skincare products for achieving and maintaining a clear complexion.

Skincare for Acne-prone skin

To keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and functioning at its best, it is important to maintain a regular skincare routine that is suited to your skin condition and type. Moisturizer is a non-negotiable step in any skincare regimen, including for individuals with skin that is oily or acne-prone. Acne breakouts can actually be worsened by avoiding using moisturizer since moisturizing helps to loosen sebum in the pores, making it easier to remove with other acne products, as well as enhancing the natural protective barrier of the skin. Choosing the right moisturizer for your skin type is imperative for keeping your skin looking and feeling its best. When you consult with Dr. Green, you will have the opportunity to discuss a proper skincare routine, including which products should be a part of your regimen, as well as learn which active ingredients would be best suited to your skin type and your skin concern. Many patients with acne-prone skin prefer to use a lightweight moisturizer, and MGSKINLABS, Inc. Ultimately Sheer Hydrating Lotion is the perfect product. The formula is rich in aloe and rosewater, instantly hydrating skin without feeling heavy or clogging pores. Additionally, the Ultimately Sheer Lotion has an enhanced pore-regulation formula that helps control oil production, preventing excess sebum production and leaving a matte finish.

One of the biggest myths about acne-prone skin is that it’s okay to skip sunscreen. Sunscreen is another essential component of any good skincare routine. Patients may be opposed to the application of sunscreen at the end of their routine if they struggle with acne since many sunscreens may have formulas that clog their pores with the product and lead to more breakouts. Choosing a non-comedogenic lotion formula for sunscreen is an ideal option for those who have oily or acne-prone skin. Dr. Green’s MGSkinLabs, Inc. produces a non-comedogenic Hydrating Sunscreen with SPF 50 that combines a moisturizer and SPF into a single product. This kind of sunscreen is the perfect option for those who want to reduce the number of steps in their skincare routine, keep their skin moisturized and healthy, as well as protect against UVA and UVB rays that contribute to the development of skin cancer and signs of premature aging.

Which natural acne treatment is best?

Tea tree oil is an all-natural treatment that is often recommended for acne, as it has natural anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal properties, making it a helpful topical therapy for inflammatory acne lesions. Tea tree oil should not be applied directly to the skin on its own but instead mixed with a carrier oil. The carrier oil should be non-comedogenic to prevent clogging the pores. A patch test should be performed before using tea tree oil as an acne treatment. A reaction to the product might look like redness, stinging, peeling, or burning. Tea tree oil is also often used to manage symptoms of eczema, dandruff, and nail fungus, among others. Tea tree oil may help mild acne, but for moderate to severe acne, other acne treatments are likely to be required. If over-the-counter products have not worked for resolving your acne, schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green, who can recommend the right combination of acne medications and topical treatments.

Does laser acne treatment work?

Patients with active breakouts can absolutely benefit from having laser treatments with Dr. Green in NYC. Dr. Green often uses the V-Beam laser to treat her patients with acne and rosacea. The VBeam is considered the gold standard for patients with rosacea, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, broken capillaries, and other forms of facial or bodily redness. The laser technology operates on a wavelength that exclusively targets skin cells with red pigment while leaving the surrounding skin untouched. One of the greatest benefits of the V-Beam laser is that there is no downtime involved with the treatment, meaning that patients can resume normal daily activities immediately upon completion of the procedure and that treatment sessions can be scheduled with ease.

Additionally, the V-Beam laser incorporates a patented Dynamic Cooling Device, the DCD, that releases a burst of cool air prior to each pulse of the laser. This feature makes the treatment much more comfortable for the patient, and it can be performed without the use of a topical anesthetic. If you are struggling with inflammation and redness associated with acne breakouts or other skin conditions, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green, who can advise you on whether you are a good candidate for treatment with the V-Beam laser. Many patients who struggle with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation benefit from using a topical vitamin C serum in conjunction with their V-Beam treatment. The Vita-C serum from MGSKINLABS, Inc. has an exceptionally high concentration of Vitamin C and helps to improve skin texture, skin tone, and overall radiance. Vitamin C promotes enhanced skin cell renewal and supports collagen synthesis. A potent antioxidant, topical vitamin C also helps neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals.

JZ 25 F before and after 6 months of Accutane FRONT MGWatermark 1

Will laser treatment remove acne scars?

Laser treatments are considered one of the most effective treatment options for reducing acne scars. Lasers are an ideal acne scar treatment as they can help boost skin cell turnover while stimulating new collagen production to improve overall skin health. Acne scars form when inflammation associated with acne lesions causes irreparable damage to underlying skin tissue. Lasers induce new collagen production, leading to a smoother, healthier, more even-toned complexion.

Laser treatments can also help treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation affects many individuals with acne breakouts and can be characterized by dark spots that vary in color depending on one’s skin tone. PIH is a type of skin discoloration that commonly occurs after an inflammatory skin condition such as a rash, acne, or other wound. During the natural healing process of the skin, there is potential that cells involved with healing the area also contribute to the overproduction of melanin, leading to the development of hyperpigmented skin spots. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can often go away on its own or be treated more quickly through the use of curated gels and in-office cosmetic treatment options in order to help soothe the skin. The V-Beam laser is an excellent treatment option for improving the appearance of acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, as it targets the excess pigment in the skin while leaving the surrounding skin untouched. Most patients require a short series of V-Beam treatment sessions to obtain the best results.

When relying on laser resurfacing for acne scars, it’s important to work with an expert dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green in NYC, who can determine the best treatment for your scar type and skin type. Laser treatment options that aren’t suited to your skin type or tone can result in unwanted side effects, including hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and scarring. Dr. Green has vast experience with laser skin resurfacing for various patient needs and can work with you to help determine the safest and most effective laser treatment for you.

Which treatment is best for acne scars?

The best treatment options for reducing the appearance of acne scars are those that are selected for you by an expert, such as internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC. This is because the best method of diminishing acne scars is often a unique combination of different treatment options. During your initial consultation for acne scars, Dr. Green will collect a thorough medical history and physically assess your skin condition. Dr. Green will personalize your acne scar treatment plan, taking into consideration your skin tone, skin type, and ideal aesthetic goals. Dr. Green offers a host of acne scar treatment options, including chemical peels, laser treatments, subcision with dermal fillers, Microneedling, and more. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will help you achieve and maintain a smooth, clear, healthy, and radiant complexion that lasts.

How to get started with acne treatment today

Acne, whether it be a single pimple, mild acne, or a persistent breakout of moderate to severe acne, can be a frustrating skin condition to try and treat with trial-and-error over-the-counter acne products. For many, acne breakouts can induce feelings of self-consciousness and negatively impact their self-esteem. Additionally, untreated blemishes have the potential to leave behind acne scars, which can be even more challenging to resolve than the acne lesions themselves. One of the greatest benefits of consulting with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, early on about your pimples is that they can recommend the best acne medications, topical treatments, in-office treatment options, and skincare products for you depending on your skin type and the type of acne that you’re experiencing.

Dr. Michele Green in New York City is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist who is internationally renowned for her holistic approach to treating active breakouts and residual acne scars, with over two and a half decades of experience treating some of the most discerning men and women from around the globe. She has a particular interest in helping patients who struggle with acne achieve a healthy, clear complexion and has developed a line of specially formulated skincare products- MGSKINLABS, Inc., that includes topical acne treatments designed for acne-prone skin. Dr. Green takes the time to understand the underlying factors that are contributing to the presence of acne, designing acne treatment protocols that have been customized to address the specific skin concerns of each patient. Her dedication to her patients and her expertise is reflected by the fact that she is consistently voted as one of New York’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine. To get started with a customized acne treatment plan, please call the NYC office of Dr. Michele Green at 212-535-3088 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation.

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