Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN) is a series of benign, superficial papules on the neck and facial region, typically found on African Americans and Asians.
The appearance of multiple small, smooth brown or black bumps that are small in diameter typically arise on the face. It is a benign, or non-cancerous condition on the skin. It is asymptomatic, which means other symptoms do not accompany its presence. This is more of a cosmetically undesirable condition that doesn’t obstruct the view or leave patient with physical discomfort, leaving no other reason to remove the papules other than because the patient would like clearer skin, bereft of marks.
Dermatologists characterize severe cases by the appearance of 50 or more spots. The rate of occurrence, the number of bumps and size of bumps increase with age, however, Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra can occur in children as young as seven-years-old. There are more females affected by this condition than there are males. Family history can increase the likelihood for 40-50 percent of those diagnosed; otherwise, the cause of the skin condition is unknown. Those that have African-American heritages with fairer complexions have the lowest frequency of Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra, and although it can occur among Asians, the exact number of incidences is unknown.
Because they are non-life threatening, they require no surgical removal except for cosmetic purposes. If desired, patients can receive superficial treatment to remove spots:
* This patient underwent CO2 laser treatment for the DPNs (dermatosis papulosis nigra). These brown spots are genetic and are often found in patients with a genetic link to the Caribbean islands. This result is only after one session with this our state of the art CO2 laser.
As a fellowship-trained cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Rokhsar is an expert in treating Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra for individuals of any skin type.
Upper East Side Manhattan Office
121 East 60th Street, Suite 8AB New York, NY 10022
(212) 285-1110
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Long Island Office
901 Stewart Ave, Suite 240, Garden City, NY 11530
(516) 512-7616
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Dr. Cameron Rokhsar is the founder and owner of New York Cosmetic Skin & Laser Surgery Center. With degrees from Harvard University and NYU, along with multiple publications and media features, the double board-certified dermatologist and laser surgeon proudly shares his expertise with patients in Garden City, Manhattan, and those who fly in to receive treatments at his offices. Dr. Rokhsar has worked extensively with Vbeam laser, Thermitight, Coolsculpting, and Fraxel laser technology, as well as Allergan and other injectable brands. He pioneered the Non-Surgical Nose Job and continues to be a leader in his field.
Dr. Rokhsar was chosen by
magazine as a top dermatologist in its Best Doctors 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 issues.
