Acne is the most common skin disorder affecting adolescents and young adults, with the vast majority of teenagers experiencing some degree of breakouts or pimples. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)1 estimates that around 50 million Americans suffer from this condition and that around 40% of these will develop scars requiring professional treatment from a dermatologist.
Clogged pores, also known as acne (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples, and even deeper lumps (cysts or nodules) often occur on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders, and upper arms. Although acne affects most teenagers to some extent, it is not restricted to any age group. While not a life-threatening condition, acne is upsetting.
At New York Cosmetic, Skin & Laser Surgery Center we know that acne can be frustrating. Dr. Rokhsar is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City who effectively treats acne and acne scars.
Some of the most common types of acne include:
You may have more than one type of acne at once, which is why it is important to speak to your dermatologist to determine the type of acne you have and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Acne2 can occur for several reasons – most commonly when the pores in your skin become clogged. This often starts with dead skin cells, which come in contact with natural facial oils called sebum. When skin cells stick together and become clogged inside the pore, it leads to acne.
When bacteria are present, acne can become more inflamed and redder and When trapped inside a pore, it multiplies more rapidly and can eventually create a deep and painful acne cyst. Unfortunately, over-the-counter medicine and antibiotics may not always be effective in treating acne.
Most times, acne resolves with age. In others, acne may remain a problem until age 40 or 50. Another myth is that you must let acne run its course – this is absolutely false. There are ways to clear your skin and improve your acne, starting today.
NYC acne specialist, Dr. Rokhsar will formulate an individualized plan involving cleansers, creams, lotions, and possibly oral medications. The dermatologist will carefully search for potential underlying causes of your acne and treat it accordingly. For example, if your acne is hormonal, he may recommend a medication by the name of Spironolactone, Aldactone, or Accutane as a last resort. Skin care procedures such as facials, the Hydrafacial, or chemical peels may also be an effective option.
Isotretinoin, more commonly known as Accutane, is used to treat severe, cystic acne. Accutane is usually used when other therapies have been unsuccessful and results are seen after a few months of use. About half of those who use Accutane are cured of further severe acne breakouts.
Although Accutane is a natural derivative of vitamin A, it is a potent medicine with many side effects and requires careful evaluation of the patient. Before prescribing Accutane to women, two pregnancy tests are needed. If the results are negative, possible side effects will be discussed with you.
Laser treatments can be an effective way to treat your acne in NYC. Dr. Rokhsar uses a laser to target overactive sebaceous glands in your skin – the root cause of acne. Medical lasers such as VBeam or Fraxel lasers (Fraxel restore dual or Fraxel repair) or the CO2 have been used for over two decades to treat many medical conditions. Dr. Rokhsar was involved in the development of the Fraxel laser in 2003.
The laser light penetrates to a depth in the skin where the sebaceous glands are found and causes enough injury to disrupt the overproduction of sebum, thereby disrupting the acne. The outer skin is protected by a cooling spray and is not affected by the treatment.
In most cases, there is no downtime and side effects are quite minimal, which may include slight and temporary redness, or swelling lasting a few hours to a few days or. In some rare cases, you may see a temporary pigmentation change.
Laser treatments can also be used to treat deep acne scars. Because collagen is at the same depth in the skin as sebaceous glands and is composed mostly of water, it is also a target of the laser. The slight dermal injury caused by the laser light stimulates the production and deposition of newly organized collagen beneath the skin, which can result in significant improvement in the appearance of these scars.
In addition, Dr. Rokhsar is extremely experienced at other methods such as subcision as well as punch excisions for the treatment of acne scars. Subcision is a highly effective procedure for rolling scars as well as some deep boxcar scars. It involves the placement of a special needle underneath the skin after local numbing, to free up the tethered scarred scar from the scarred subcutaneous tissue to make concavities better and therefore the scar smoother.
Dr. Rokhsar uses punch excisions for ice pick scars. He usually likes to resurface these scars after punch excision with either the Fraxel restore dual or the Fraxel repair (co2 laser).
* Results May Vary
Photodynamic Acne Treatment (PDT) is a process by which a photosensitizing agent is applied to your skin. A photosensitizing agent is a special solution applied to the skin that is activated by a specific wavelength of light. Photosensitizing agents have been used extensively for the treatment of a variety of different skin conditions.
Levulan is a 20% solution of Aminolevulinic Acid (ALA). ALA is a “natural” product found in all humans throughout the body. It is a precursor for hemoglobin synthesis.
For many patients, PDT-ALA is a procedure that can significantly improve moderate-to-severe acne, including cystic acne. Before Photodynamic Acne Treatment3, the best available treatment option for resistant and cystic acne in NYC was Accutane. However, Accutane is known for its many systemic side effects, both physically and mentally.
PDT Acne Treatment4 provides a viable alternative to Accutane. Three to five treatments are advisable at two to three-week intervals to get optimal results.
Some benefits of ALA PDT include:
You can help prevent acne scars by seeking professional acne scar treatment5 in New York City as soon as possible. However, it is unfortunately still possible to scar despite your best skin protection efforts.
Here are a few tips to help manage your acne:
As a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, Dr. Rokhsar is a pioneer in the science of Fraxel laser treatments and presented the first report on correcting scars with the Fraxel laser. He is expertly trained to offer impressive results with lasers and other acne-treating methods in the NYC area.
For more information about acne and acne scar treatment in NYC, contact Dr. Rokhsar today.
Accutane is used for severe cystic, and nodular acne. When the patient has tried other treatment routes and acne problems persist, Accutane may be recommended. It needs to be prescribed by a doctor.
Accutane is a form of vitamin D. It is an oral supplement that works by reducing the amount of oil released by the glands in your skin. High amounts of oil, also known as sebum, can lead to severe acne and if left untreated, severe acne may cause permanent scarring.
The prescription is taken for a few months, twice daily, and it can take at least a month before the benefits of the medication start to show. Additionally, it may take several months before the patient experiences the full benefits from Accutane.
No. Accutane treats the actual chemical makeup of acne and stops recurring breakouts. Dr. Cameron Rokhsar uses Fraxel, which is considered the gold standard in laser technology, to resurface and rejuvenate the skin.
Accutane is not safe for women that are pregnant. Women of childbearing potential are required to sign a written agreement that they are using two forms of birth control. Accutane can lead to severe, life-threatening birth defects and may be dangerous to the mother’s health as well.
Considered a last resort medication, Accutane should only be considered if the patient has tried other routes of acne treatment and has not gotten the results that were intended. It is suggested that those who are prone to depression or who are on medication for depression should not take Accutane.
No. The skin becomes very sensitive to light and environmental factors, making the skin more susceptible to sunburns and rash breakouts. Patients who are taking Accutane should wear strong sunscreen. Avoid sunscreens that contain fragrances, alcohols, or dyes. Look for high SPF sunscreens and also ones that have more zinc. Zinc is a key nutrient that can help protect your skin from harmful UV rays instead of just UVB rays. It is important to stay out of tanning beds and shade the skin while outdoors.
Accutane (isotretinoin), a medication used to treat severe acne, typically takes around 1 to 3 months to see significant improvement in skin clarity, with some patients noticing improvement as early as two weeks into treatment. However, some people may experience an initial worsening of their acne after starting isotretinoin therapy. The treatment course for Accutane usually lasts from 5 to 7 months, but it may vary depending on the patient’s individual response and the severity of their acne. The exact duration of treatment is decided by a dermatologist. Dosage for Accutane ranges from 40 mg to 120 mg daily, and treatment duration can last anywhere from 5 to 10 months.
It is important to take Accutane as directed by your doctor. Each prescription of Accutane must be filled within 7 days of the date it was written by your doctor, and you will receive no more than a 30-day supply of Accutane at one time. Always take Accutane with a full glass of water and swallow it whole without chewing or sucking on the capsule.
The cost of Accutane can vary widely depending on a number of factors. Most insurance plans cover the cost of Accutane while patients may be responsible for a copay/coinsurance or deductible. Patients are encouraged to discuss pricing options with their health insurance provider and explore various resources for cost-saving opportunities.
The most common side effects of Accutane are dry skin, sensitivity to sun, muscle aches, joint pain, dry/irritated eyes, redness and itching, nosebleeds, and dry lips. These side effects can be managed with over-the-counter creams, SPF, and pain relievers. Other less-common side effects include increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels, increased liver enzymes, and blood sugar problems. Patients taking Accutane must abstain from drinking alcohol until the completion of their course.
Accutane must not be used to treat women who are or are planning to become pregnant, as it can cause severe birth defects in the developing fetus. Women who take Accutane must use two forms of birth control at all times while taking the medication and for at least one month after stopping treatment. Accutane is also not recommended for people with liver disease, high cholesterol, or depression.
Accutane is a controlled substance regulated by the FDA and the office of Dr. Rokhsar adheres to its strict guidelines and iPledge system. Dr. Rokhsar requires all patients to complete blood work every month of treatment to ensure that the patient is responding well to the treatment.
Butt acne is a common skin condition that affects many people. While it is often referred to as “butt acne,” the condition is not actually acne. Rather, there are a few different skin conditions that can cause bumps or pimples on the buttocks.
One of the most common causes of butt acne is folliculitis, which is an inflammation of the hair follicles caused by bacteria, yeast, or fungi that live on the skin. Folliculitis can cause red, inflamed pimples on the buttocks. Keratosis pilaris is another skin condition that can cause butt acne. It is the result of a buildup of keratin, a skin protein, that can sometimes block the hair follicle. Finally, tight clothing rubbing the skin during sports, staying in sweaty clothes, and prolonged occlusion from sweaty clothing can all lead to butt acne.
Butt acne can be caused by more than one of these conditions, and that what appears to be acne on the buttocks may actually be one of these other conditions. If you are experiencing bumps or pimples on your buttocks, it is recommended that you see Dr. Rokhsar who can help diagnose the underlying cause and recommend an appropriate treatment.
Cystic acne can be a stubborn and painful condition to deal with, but there are several effective treatment options available. Here are some of the most common treatments for cystic acne:
Butt acne can be an uncomfortable and embarrassing condition, but there are several ways to treat it. One option is to use an acne wash containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which can help to dry out the skin and reduce acne-causing bacteria. However, it is important not to overuse these products, as they can also cause excessive dryness. If using an acne wash daily, follow up with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to prevent excessive dryness.
Another effective treatment for butt acne is tea tree oil, which has natural antibacterial properties. Benzoyl peroxide can also be applied directly to the affected area to help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. In addition, lactic acid lotions and salicylic acid medicated pads are also effective in treating butt acne.
It is important to keep the affected area clean and dry to prevent further breakouts. Avoid tight-fitting clothing that may trap sweat and bacteria against the skin, and shower immediately after exercise. Applying a warm compress to the affected area may also help to open up the pores and drain pus and bacteria.
If over-the-counter treatments are not effective, a dermatologist may be able to prescribe stronger medications, such as topical or oral antibiotics. However, not all bumps on the buttocks are acne. It is recommended to see Dr. Rokhsar for a consultation during which he can prescribe a treatment.
Hormonal acne is a type of acne that is caused by hormonal imbalances in the body. It can be difficult to treat, but there are a variety of options available. Here are some ways to treat hormonal acne:
Overall, if you are experiencing acne, it is recommended see Dr. Rokhsar for a consultation for a personalized treatment plan and expert guidance in managing acne.
Back acne can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are several ways to treat and prevent it. Here are some tips on how to treat back acne:
Chest acne, like acne on other parts of the body, can be treated through a variety of methods. Here are some of the ways to treat chest acne:
Cheek acne is a common problem that can be treated using a variety of methods. The first line of treatment usually involves the use of oral antibiotics such as tetracycline or macrolide antibiotics such as erythromycin, azithromycin, doxycycline, or minocycline. However, there are also several skincare tips and home remedies that can help manage and prevent cheek acne.
To start with, it is important to use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser to clean the skin in the morning, in the evening, and after heavy exercise. Avoid using strong soaps, astringents, or rough scrub pads, as they can irritate the skin. Additionally, it is important to use gentle skin care products and ones that are alcohol-free, as alcohol-based products can also irritate the skin.
Dr. Rokhsar recommends using the Skin Scripts cleanser system which includes a cleanser, toner pads, and aloe-based moisturizer. It is important to use products that will not clog pores. The cleanser and toner pads have salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and tea tree oil which are effective for treating active breakouts and preventing new ones from forming. It is important to wash the face twice a day and after sweating. Overwashing can irritate the skin, making acne worse.
It is recommended to wash bed sheets at least once a week to maintain healthy skin, and if you are particularly acne-prone, it is recommended to change your pillowcase more frequently.
Pimples take time to heal, so it is unlikely that cheek acne would go away overnight. However, steps can be taken to reduce swelling and make blemishes less noticeable. Dr. Rokhsar recommends avoiding picking or squeezing pimples, using an over-the-counter acne treatment containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, and applying a warm compress to the affected area to help reduce inflammation. If you are having a cystic acne breakout, Dr. Rokhsar recommends making an appointment for cortisone injections to reduce inflammation and prevent scarring. You may also chose to take prescribed pills by Dr. Rokhsar or undergo laser treatments with Accure laser or PDT. Hydrafacial treatments can be helpful to exfoliate and improve black heads and white heads.
Upper East Side Manhattan Office
121 East 60th Street, Suite 8AB New York, NY 10022
(212) 285-1110
Long Island Office
901 Stewart Ave, Suite 240, Garden City, NY 11530
(516) 512-7616
References
Dr. Cameron Rokhsar, MD, FAAD, FAACS, is the founder and medical director of the New York Cosmetic, Skin, & Laser Surgery Center. Dr. Rokhsar is a graduate of Harvard College and NYU School of Medicine. Dr. Rokhsar is double board certified in dermatology and micrographic dermatologic surgery, being one of the few select dermatologists in the country who is also fellowship trained in laser surgery. A researcher and innovator, Dr. Rokhsar is the creator of the non-surgical nose job and has been instrumental in the research and development of laser systems such as the Fraxel, CO2, Mirady, Vbeam, Themitight, and Ulthera devices. An Associate Professor of Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC, Dr. Rokhsar actively teaches the cosmetic dermatology clinic to the resident at Mount Sinai. An expert injector of fillers, and a trainer for many companies, patients fly in from around the world to see Dr. Rokhsar in his Garden City and Manhattan offices in New York.
Dr. Rokhsar was chosen by
magazine as a top dermatologist in its Best Doctors 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 issues.
