Acne

If your acne is bothersome, irritating, or embarrassing, help is within reach at Plaza Park Dermatology in the Brooklyn Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York City. Board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon Tobechi Ebede, MD, FAAD, offers an array of highly effective acne treatments to achieve smoother, clearer, gorgeous skin. Schedule an appointment by phone or online today.

What is acne?

Acne is a skin condition associated with pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and other imperfections on your face or body. While not a cause for concern, acne may reduce your self-confidence or feel uncomfortable. The good news is that you don’t have to live with acne and its symptoms, including scarring.

What are the symptoms of acne?

The hallmark symptoms of acne include:

• Pimples
• Cysts
• Blackheads
• Whiteheads
• Redness
• Swelling
• Pustules
• Nodules
• Scarring

The symptoms often come and go, periodically flaring up due to numerous causes and triggers. 

When not addressed, acne can cause scarring and emotional distress. See Dr. Ebede at the first sign of bothersome acne to eliminate it.

What can increase my risk of acne?

The causes and risk factors for developing acne often include:

• Clogged pores
• Overproduction of oil
• Bacteria buildup
• Shedding of dead skin
• Hormone fluctuations
• Certain medications
• Family history of acne
• Pregnancy
• Menstruation 
• Oily cosmetics

Acne is common among teenagers, due to fluctuating hormone levels. Infants may develop acne during the first few months of life. Women and men also develop it due to hormone fluctuations, a poor skin care regimen, or other reasons.

How is acne diagnosed?

Dr. Ebede diagnoses acne and its severity after examining your skin and discussing your medical history. She asks about your lifestyle habits, treatment preferences, and cosmetic goals before tailoring an acne treatment plan. 

How is acne treated?

Acne treatments available at Plaza Park Dermatology include:

• Skin care education
• Topical medicines
• Oral medications
• Acne scar treatments

Plaza Park Dermatology offers laser treatments, chemical peels, fillers, dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, and other solutions that help diminish acne scarring.

It might take up to eight weeks before you notice the results, and acne sometimes gets worse before it clears up.

How can I reduce the risk of developing acne?

To minimize your risk of getting acne, there are several steps you can take. Keep your skin clean, protect it from the sun, and avoid greasy or oily skin care products. Use mild cleaners, remove any makeup before bed, and avoid constantly touching your skin. Don’t squeeze or pick at the blemishes.

Schedule an appointment at Plaza Park Dermatology by phone or online today to get treated for acne or scarring.