Acne

Central Park South Dermatology Our Services Acne

Central Park South Dermatology

Medical Dermatologist & Cosmetic Dermatologist located in Midtown, New York, NY

Acne is a common skin condition that brings many men, women, and teens to the care of Robin Blum, MD, FAAD, of Central Park South Dermatology in midtown Manhattan, New York. If you live with acne and struggle with discomfort and emotional distress related to your skin condition, schedule a consultation with Dr. Blum to discuss the latest treatment options. Booking a visit is easy using the online scheduling tool, or you can always call or stop by the office to check availability.

Acne Q & A

What is acne?

Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that leads to bumps, sores, and spots on your skin. It affects an estimated 50 million Americans each year.

Most cases of acne occur in teenagers around the time of puberty. That said, many adults also struggle with acne. It’s believed that nearly 85% of Americans experience some form of acne between the ages of 12-24.

Acne isn’t a dangerous health issue, but it can cause scarring. It can also make you feel self-conscious about the appearance of your skin, and certain forms of acne are painful.

What causes acne?

Your skin is covered in follicles, which are tiny sacs that connect your pores to oil glands that lie beneath your skin. Your follicles also produce hair that grows out of your skin.

Acne develops when your follicles become blocked by a combination of oil, dead skin cells, and hair. When certain types of bacteria create an infection in the plugged follicle, a pimple develops.  

Researchers still work to determine the exact causes of acne, but they believe there is a genetic component at play. Additional causal factors include:

  • Fluctuating hormones
  • Emotional stress
  • Certain medications
  • Pore-clogging cosmetics
  • Certain foods, especially carbohydrate-dense foods

The idea that acne is caused by poor hygiene or greasy foods is a myth.

What are some options for treating acne?

Dr. Blum is a firm believer in the importance of customized care. Acne treatment is tailored to suit your specific set of needs. Just as there are various types of acne and degrees of severity, a dynamic treatment plan is needed to deliver results. The right treatment for you is one that fits both your symptoms and your lifestyle.

Medications may play a role in treating acne. There are topical options that prevent clogged follicles, kill bacteria, and reduce redness. Oral medications reduce bacteria and fight inflammation. Some drugs work by altering your hormonal balance.

Drug therapy carries a risk of side effects, and Dr. Blum ensures you have the details you need to make an informed decision about this treatment approach.

However, there are many other ways to treat acne, including:

  • Laser and light therapy
  • Steroid injections
  • Chemical peels
  • Manual extraction of whiteheads and blackheads

To explore these treatment options in more detail, schedule a consultation with Dr. Blum today, online or over the phone.

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