Best Acne Treatments

Understanding the Causes & Best Treatments for Acne

Acne is one of the most common and most frustrating skin conditions, that can affect individuals of all ages. And while acne is most commonly associated with adolescence, many adults also struggle with unsightly pimples. But acne actually has a variety of underlying causes – so the best acne treatments are not “one size fits all”.

As with any medical condition, the best course of treatment is to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause of your acne – rather than attempt DIY and over-the-counter remedies that are rarely strong enough to keep ugly breakouts at bay.

Understanding the underlying causes and identifying the best acne treatment options can be challenging, which is why seeing a dermatologist is crucial. A board-certified dermatologist, like Drs. Gary and Kristina Goldenberg in NYC, can diagnose the type of acne you have – so that the best treatment for your skin issues can be prescribed.

At Goldenberg Dermatology in NYC, we specialize in diagnosing and treating all types of acne to help you achieve clearer, healthier skin. In this article we discuss the various causes of acne, and explain the best acne treatments available at Goldenberg Dermatology in NYC.

Teen Acne Causes & Treatment

Teen acne is primarily caused by hormonal changes that occur during puberty. The increase in hormones, particularly androgens, stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce more oil (sebum). This excess oil can clog pores, leading to the formation of blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. Additionally, the presence of bacteria on the skin and inflammation can exacerbate acne.

Treatment for teen acne often includes topical medications such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids. These products help to reduce oil production, exfoliate dead skin cells, and kill acne-causing bacteria. In more severe cases, oral antibiotics, or hormonal treatments, such as birth control pills, may be prescribed to regulate hormone levels and reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, laser acne treatment – such as AviClear – may be the best course of action for teens.

Regular visits to a dermatologist are essential for managing teen acne effectively. The board-certified dermatologists at Goldenberg Dermatology in NYC can provide personalized teen acne treatment plans, recommend appropriate skincare products, prescribe acne medications, and perform advanced procedures including laser treatments to improve the appearance of the skin.

Adult Acne Causes & Treatment

Adult acne can be particularly frustrating because it often appears in individuals who did not experience significant acne during their teenage years. Hormonal fluctuations – particularly around menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause – can trigger acne in adult women. In men, back acne, often referred to as “bacne,” is a common skin condition that can result from androgens (male hormones) such as testosterone. Stress, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions can also contribute to adult acne.

Treatment for adult acne often involves a combination of topical and oral medications. Retinoids and benzoyl peroxide can help to keep pores clear and reduce inflammation. For women, hormonal treatments such as oral contraceptives or anti-androgen medications like spironolactone may be effective in regulating hormone levels and reducing acne.

In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing adult acne. Stress reduction techniques, a healthy diet, and a consistent skincare routine tailored to your skin type can help to improve the overall condition of your skin.

In more severe cases of adult acne, laser acne treatments at Goldenberg Dermatology in NYC – such as AviClear, Laser Genesis, or Cutera ExcelV – may be the best course of action for troublesome adult acne.

Male vs. Female Acne Causes

While both males and females can develop acne, the underlying causes and patterns of acne can differ. In males, acne is often more severe and persistent due to higher levels of androgens, which stimulate oil (sebum) production that can clog pores.  Men also typically have larger sebaceous glands than women, which means they produce more sebum. This increased oil production can lead to a higher likelihood of clogged pores, especially on the back where the skin is thicker and has more sebaceous glands.

Additionally, men tend to sweat more than women which can exacerbate adult acne. Sweat can mix with oils and bacteria on the skin, clogging pores and leading to breakouts. And, some men might not pay as much attention to their skincare routine as women – making them less likely to exfoliate or use non-comedogenic skincare products.

In females, hormonal fluctuations related to menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause can cause acne. Women may also experience acne due to medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affects hormone levels.

While male acne typically appears on the face, back, female acne often appears on the lower face, jawline, and neck. Treatment for male and female acne may involve different approaches depending on the hormonal influences and the severity of the acne. Hormonal treatments are more commonly prescribed for female acne, while males may benefit more from topical treatments and oral antibiotics.

The board-certified dermatologists at Goldenberg Dermatology in NYC will assess your acne and prescribe the products, medications, and acne treatments that are customized for your unique needs.

Does Diet Cause Acne?

The relationship between diet and acne has been debated for many years. While diet alone is not the sole cause of acne, certain foods can contribute to its development. High-glycemic foods such as sugary snacks, white bread, and processed foods can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, leading to increased oil production and inflammation.

Dairy products have also been linked to acne in some individuals, possibly due to the hormones present in milk. Additionally, diets high in unhealthy fats and low in essential nutrients can negatively affect skin health.

To manage acne, it is recommended to maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding excessive consumption of sugary and processed foods can help to reduce the likelihood of acne flare-ups.

However, modifying your diet alone is typically not enough to stop acne breakouts. That’s why seeing a board-certified dermatologist, like those at Goldenberg Dermatology in NYC, is essential to obtain the products, medications, and acne treatments that are customized for your unique needs.

Other Types & Causes of Acne

In addition to hormonal and dietary causes, there are several other types of acne with different underlying factors. Acne mechanica is caused by friction and pressure on the skin, often from tight clothing, sports equipment, or backpacks. This type of acne is common in athletes and individuals who wear restrictive clothing.

Cystic acne is a severe form of acne characterized by large, painful cysts beneath the skin’s surface. It is often caused by a combination of hormonal changes and genetic factors. Cystic acne requires prompt and aggressive treatment to prevent scarring.

Acne can also be triggered by certain medications, such as corticosteroids, lithium, and anticonvulsants. In these cases, adjusting the medication under the supervision of a healthcare provider can help to alleviate acne symptoms.

Best Treatments for Acne in NYC

The best treatment for your acne will depend on the type and severity of the condition, as well as the underlying causes. At Goldenberg Dermatology in NYC, we offer a range of state-of-the-art acne treatments tailored to your specific needs.

Comedone removal involves the manual extraction of blackheads and whiteheads to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. It is often used in combination with other treatments for optimal results.

Steroid Injections may also be prescribed for severe or cystic acne, corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and pain, helping lesions heal more quickly. This treatment is especially effective for large, painful cysts.

Oral acne medications such as Accutane (isotretinoin) are prescribed by our NYC dermatologists for severe, treatment-resistant acne. Oral antibiotics can help to reduce bacteria and inflammation in moderate to severe acne cases.

At Goldenberg Dermatology in NYC, we are also proud to offer three state-of-the-art laser treatments: Aviclear, Cutera ExcelV Laser, and Laser Genesis. Each of these acne treatments targets breakouts in unique ways, providing solutions tailored to individual skin types and acne severity.

Best Laser Acne Treatments

Laser treatments have revolutionized the management of acne, providing effective and non-invasive options for those struggling with this persistent skin condition. Here’s a closer look at these cutting-edge acne treatment technologies and how they work.

Aviclear Acne Treatment

Aviclear is a breakthrough laser treatment specifically designed to target the sebaceous glands, which are responsible for producing the oil that can clog pores and lead to acne. By using a precise wavelength of laser energy, Aviclear selectively targets and reduces the activity of these glands without damaging the surrounding skin. This reduction in oil production helps to clear existing acne and prevent future breakouts.

What sets Aviclear apart is its ability to provide long-lasting results with minimal discomfort and downtime. Patients typically require a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart, and most begin to see significant improvements after the first few sessions. Aviclear is suitable for a wide range of skin types and can effectively treat moderate to severe acne.

Cutera ExcelV Laser Acne Treatment

The Cutera ExcelV Laser is a versatile and powerful laser system that addresses both active acne and acne-related redness. It combines two powerful wavelengths to target vascular lesions and pigmentation, making it ideal for treating inflamed acne lesions and reducing the redness associated with acne scars.

The ExcelV Laser works by delivering high-intensity laser energy to the affected areas, which heats and destroys the abnormal blood vessels causing the redness and inflammation. This not only helps to clear active acne but also improves the overall appearance of the skin by reducing redness and discoloration.

ExcelV is known for its precision and ability to treat a variety of skin conditions. It is particularly effective for patients with inflammatory acne and those with lingering redness from past breakouts. The treatment is relatively quick, with minimal discomfort and downtime, making it a convenient option for busy patients.

Laser Genesis Acne Treatment

Laser Genesis is a non-ablative laser treatment that stimulates collagen production and promotes healthy skin cell turnover. This treatment is particularly effective for mild to moderate acne and for improving the overall texture and tone of the skin.

Laser Genesis uses gentle pulses of laser energy to penetrate the skin’s surface and heat the dermis, which stimulates collagen production and helps to reduce inflammation. This process not only helps to clear active acne but also minimizes the appearance of acne scars and promotes a smoother, more even skin texture.

One of the key benefits of Laser Genesis is its ability to treat acne without any downtime. Patients can resume their normal activities immediately after the treatment, making it an excellent option for those with busy schedules. It is also suitable for all skin types and can be customized to address a variety of skin concerns beyond acne, such as fine lines and enlarged pores.

Best Acne Treatments | NYC

Understanding the causes of acne and identifying the best treatment options can be complex. At Goldenberg Dermatology in NYC, our experienced dermatologists provide personalized care to help you achieve clearer, healthier skin. By addressing the underlying causes of acne and utilizing the latest treatments, we can create a customized plan that works for you.

If you live in the greater NYC area and you or your teen is struggling with acne and looking for an advanced, personalized acne treatment plan, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you achieve clearer, healthier skin with the latest in laser acne treatments.

NYC Best Acne Treatments: 212-405-8202