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The Dermatology and Laser Group

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Acne Specialist in NYC

Led By a Board-Certified Dermatologist

Pain Level: none

Downtime: none

Cost: $295 +

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Expert Acne Treatment by a Board Certified Dermatologist

Acne can be an incredibly distressing condition, affecting not just the skin but also a person’s confidence and well-being. Having personally battled acne during his youth, Dr. Arash Akhavan has developed a deep passion for helping New York City patients achieve clear, healthy skin.

At The Dermatology and Laser Group, led by a Board Certified Dermatologist, we bring a profound understanding of the skin to every treatment plan. What sets us apart is our extensive range of therapeutic options, including lifestyle modifications, tailored skincare routines, prescription medications, facials, lasers, and other advanced procedures. We’re committed to finding the most effective treatment for your unique skin needs.

The DLG Acne Treatment Protocol
HydraFacial New York City
  • Over-The-Counter Options

    Over-the-counter topicals and nutraceuticals play a significant role in acne therapy at The Dermatology and Laser Group. Dr. Arash Akhavan and our expert aestheticians will curate a personalized selection of products to complement our other acne treatments, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your skincare.

  • Acne Procedures

    We offer a range of top-tier acne treatment procedures at our office, including The Clarifying Hydrafacial Acne Treatment, FDA-cleared acne lasers, and chemical peels specifically designed to target and improve acne.
  • Acne Prescriptions

    As a board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Arash Akhavan is an expert in the full spectrum of therapeutic options for acne, including all forms of prescription medications. Whether topical or oral, these prescriptions can be tailored to your specific needs and used to complement our in-office treatment options.
Photograph of Hydrafacial acne treatment device tip removing blackheads from a patients nose

Acne: Types, Causes, and Triggers

What is Acne?

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide, regardless of age or gender. Pores become clogged with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells, leading to the formation of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and sometimes more severe lesions like cysts and nodules. Acne primarily appears on the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulders due to the high concentration of sebaceous (oil) glands in these areas. The condition is not just a cosmetic concern; it can have a significant impact on a person’s self-esteem and quality of life, making effective treatment and management crucial.

Types of Acne

Understanding the type of acne is essential in determining the most effective therapy.

  • Blackheads (Open Comedones): Blackheads are small, dark lesions that appear on the skin due to pores clogged with oil and dead skin. They get their dark color from the oxidation of the clogged material when it’s exposed to air, not from dirt.
  • Whiteheads (Closed Comedones): Whiteheads form when a clogged pore remains closed at the surface of the skin, creating a small, flesh-colored bump.
  • Papules: Papules are small, red, raised bumps caused by inflamed or pores. They can be tender to the touch and are often a sign that the comedonal acne has progressed.
  • Pustules: Pustules are similar to papules but are filled with pus, giving them a white or yellow center.
  • Nodules: Nodules are large, solid, painful lumps beneath the surface of the skin. Unlike papules and pustules, nodules are deeper and can cause significant scarring
  • Cysts: Cysts are the most severe form of acne, characterized by large, pus-filled lumps beneath the skin. They are painful and can lead to permanent scarring.
    diagram showing stages of acne inflammation and infection

Potential Causes and Triggers of Acne

Acne is a multifactorial condition, meaning it can be triggered by a variety of factors, both internal and external. Understanding these causes and triggers is essential for effective treatment and prevention.  Hormonal fluctuations, genetics, diet, and stress are internal factors that can contribute to acne. Skin care products, friction on the skin, and environmental factors such as pollutants, humidity, and sweat can also trigger acne or make it worse.

As part of our evaluation process we look for causes of acne in each individual to try to address the root cause of the condition when possible.

Acne Treatment

At The Dermatology and Laser Group, Dr. Arash Akhavan begins every acne treatment journey with a thorough assessment of your skin, taking into account the type, severity, and underlying causes of your acne. Understanding that no two cases are the same, Dr. Akhavan and our expert team customize each treatment plan to address your unique needs, ensuring the most effective and personalized care possible. Whether through advanced in-office procedures, tailored prescription medications, or carefully selected over-the-counter products, we are committed to helping you achieve clear, healthy skin.

The DLG Acne Treatment Protocol

At The Dermatology and Laser Group, we believe in a holistic and comprehensive approach to acne treatment. Our signature DLG Acne Treatment Protocol often begins with a combination of monthly Clarifying Hydrafacial Treatments and the use of nutraceuticals like Nutrafol Skin or niacinamide supplements. This carefully curated regimen is designed to address all aspects of acne, from surface congestion and excess oil production to deeper, internal factors such as inflammation and overall skin health.

The Clarifying Hydrafacial Treatment is a powerful yet gentle procedure that deeply cleanses and exfoliates the skin, helping to clear clogged pores and reduce the excess oil that contributes to acne formation. By incorporating Nutrafol Skin or niacinamide, we further support your skin from the inside out. These nutraceuticals work to balance your skin's oil production, provide anti-inflammatory benefits, and improve overall skin health, making them an essential component of our acne treatment protocol.

This synergistic approach ensures that we not only treat existing acne but also help prevent future breakouts, offering you clearer, healthier skin with each step of the journey.

 

Two happy women on street walking on street with confidence with clear skin for acne treatment website.

The Clarifying Hydrafacial Treatment

The Clarifying Hydrafacial Treatment is a cornerstone of our acne management protocol. This innovative, non-invasive treatment combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and hydration, all in one session. The procedure starts with a deep cleanse to remove impurities and dead skin cells, followed by a gentle exfoliation and extraction using specialized serums that helps loosen debris and oil trapped within your pores. In studies of acne treatment with Hydrafacial all patients reported clearer skin and 65% reported that they are free of acne.

Nutrafol Skin

Nutrafol Skin is an advanced nutraceutical designed to enhance skin health from within. This supplement is formulated with a powerful blend of ingredients that target the root causes of acne, including hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and the microbiome of the gut and skin. Nutrafol Skin is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are key contributors to acne development. Nutrafol Skin can be purchased in our office, on our online store The DLG Store (at a significant discount), or on the Nutrafol Website. It is also bundled into the cost of The DLG Acne Treatment Protocol at a significant discount.

As Nutrafol Skin was specifically designed for women, we substitute niacinamide supplements for our male patients.

Man with back clear of acne standing confidently on our acne treatment webpage.

VI Peel Purify with Precision Plus

The VI Peel Purify with Precision Plus is a powerful chemical peel specifically designed to target active acne, acne scars, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This advanced treatment combines the benefits of two distinct formulations—Purify and Precision Plus—to address both the underlying causes of acne and the visible aftermath, leaving your skin clearer, smoother, and more even-toned.

The VI Peel Purify with Precision Plus is suitable for a wide range of skin types, including sensitive skin. It is particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with moderate to severe acne, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation.

Happy man and woman with man kissing woman on forehead. Both have clear skin. For Acne Treatment Specialist web page.

m22 IPL for Acne

At The Dermatology and Laser Group we have access to the best technologies for cosmetic treatments. Dr. Arash Akhavan is a consultant and key opinion leader for many device and laser companies, allowing us early access to the most cutting edge treatments.  We have used a variety of laser cleared for the treatment of acne over the last decade and have been disappointed by most due to lack of efficacy and/or undesirable side effects.

One device we have been impressed with over the years is the FDA-cleared Lumenis m22 IPL with its Acne Treatment handpiece.  The m22 system Acne Treatment uses Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) specifically designed to target the bacteria that contribute to acne, known as Cutibacterium acnes. By emitting light at wavelengths that penetrate the skin and destroy these bacteria, the IPL treatment reduces the frequency and severity of acne breakouts.

One of the significant advantages of the Lumenis M22 Acne Treatment is the minimal downtime associated with the procedure. Most patients experience only mild redness and slight swelling, which typically subsides within a few hours to a day, allowing them to return to their daily activities quickly.

Before and after image showing great improvement in acne.
Series of photos showing gradual improvement in acne.

TheraClearX™ Acne Therapy

Dr. Arash Akhavan is proud to introduce TheraClearX™, a revolutionary FDA-cleared device that treats acne at its source. By combining Vacuum Extraction to physically lift deep pore blockages with Broadband Light to destroy acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes), this treatment offers a powerful dual-action solution for clear skin.

The system is effective for all forms of acne—from stubborn blackheads and whiteheads to inflammatory cysts—and is safe for all skin types. Treatments are painless, require no numbing, and have zero social downtime, making this the ideal option for patients seeking rapid, reliable clearance.

OTC and Prescription Medications

At The Dermatology and Laser Group, we take a comprehensive approach to acne treatment by integrating both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription products into our personalized care plans. Our team, led by Dr. Arash Akhavan, carefully selects products that best suit your skin’s specific needs.

Over-the-counter options, including topicals and nutraceuticals, are often recommended as part of a foundational skincare regimen. These products, such as niacinamide and Nutrafol Skin, help regulate oil production, reduce inflammation, and support overall skin health.

For more targeted treatment, we utilize prescription products that offer potent, clinically proven solutions for managing acne. These may include topical retinoids, antibiotics, or oral medications, tailored to address the severity and type of acne you are experiencing. By combining OTC and prescription products, we ensure a multifaceted approach that not only treats active breakouts but also prevents future acne and improves the overall health and appearance of your skin.

 

  • Contact Detrmatology & Laser Group at (212) 444-8204 to schedule a consultation today

BOOK CONSULTATION
CONTACT US

Acne Treatment Patient Testimonials and Google Reviews

dermatologyandlasergroup

846 97,601

💉Non-invasive/Minimally Invasive Cosmetic Procedures of Face & Body
🏅NY Mag Best Doctor, Castle Connolly Top Doc
Laser▪️Body Contouring▪️Botox/Filler

The Clarifying Hydrafacial is clinically proven to improve the appearance of skin. In clinical studies, patients with acne showed immediate and long term benefits after receiving a series of 5 Hydrafacial treatments! Contact us today to book a Hydrafacial with our licensed aesthetician Sophia! #hydrafacial #hydrafacialnyc #aesthetician #esthetician #nyc #dermatology

44 0
Open post by dermatologyandlasergroup with ID 18008482421651957
The Clarifying Hydrafacial is clinically proven to improve the appearance of skin. In clinical studies, patients with acne showed immediate and long term benefits after receiving a series of 5 Hydrafacial treatments! Contact us today to book a Hydrafacial with our licensed aesthetician Sophia! #hydrafacial #hydrafacialnyc #aesthetician #esthetician #nyc #dermatology

The Clarifying Hydrafacial is clinically proven to improve the appearance of skin. In clinical studies, patients with acne showed immediate and long term benefits after receiving a series of 5 Hydrafacial treatments! Contact us today to book a Hydrafacial with our licensed aesthetician Sophia! #hydrafacial #hydrafacialnyc #aesthetician #esthetician #nyc #dermatology ...

Our licensed esthetician Alli goes over her experience with Microneedling with Anteage Growth Factor.

Alli’s expertise in skincare and products has been life-changing for our patients. She is able to tailor all of our facials depending on skin-type or concerns so you can walk away glowing, each and every time!

She is also all for upkeep and can recommend the correct products to keep your skin smooth all year round, even weeks after the facial.

A customized session with Alli will have you feeling smooth and glowing, while she tailors your session to maximize your results!

#medicalesthetician #microneedling #growthfactorfacial #growthfactor #anteagemd #acnescarringtreatment #drarash #nycdermatology

261 4
Open post by dermatologyandlasergroup with ID 18284074189186944

Our licensed esthetician Alli goes over her experience with Microneedling with Anteage Growth Factor.

Alli’s expertise in skincare and products has been life-changing for our patients. She is able to tailor all of our facials depending on skin-type or concerns so you can walk away glowing, each and every time!

She is also all for upkeep and can recommend the correct products to keep your skin smooth all year round, even weeks after the facial.

A customized session with Alli will have you feeling smooth and glowing, while she tailors your session to maximize your results!

#medicalesthetician #microneedling #growthfactorfacial #growthfactor #anteagemd #acnescarringtreatment #drarash #nycdermatology
...

Momma wants some Botox and we are here to deliver!

May 14th is right around the corner, why not surprise mom with the ultimate DLG experience! Give the gift of glow with a rejuvenating Hydrafacial, a simple Botox session, or giftcard so she can choose! Either way, make this Mother`s Day extra special with DLG!

#cosmeticdermatology #mothersday2023 #boardcertifieddermatologist #hydrafacial #botox #mothersdaynyc #dermatologistsofig #drarash

190 0
Open post by dermatologyandlasergroup with ID 17902134974782375

Momma wants some Botox and we are here to deliver!

May 14th is right around the corner, why not surprise mom with the ultimate DLG experience! Give the gift of glow with a rejuvenating Hydrafacial, a simple Botox session, or giftcard so she can choose! Either way, make this Mother`s Day extra special with DLG!

#cosmeticdermatology #mothersday2023 #boardcertifieddermatologist #hydrafacial #botox #mothersdaynyc #dermatologistsofig #drarash
...

Don’t let your lines define you!

Collagen is one of the most important aspects when it comes to diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. Radio frequency and/or tiny controlled injuries to the skin boost collagen leading to an improvement in elasticity - one of the most important aspects when it comes to improving skin texture and “bounce”.

Botox and other toxins work a bit differently by temporarily relaxing facial muscles that cause deep lines and wrinkles.

The end results are all the same -smooth and wrinkle free skin!

All consultations and procedures are tailored towards you and your skin - reach out today and find out how DLG can help you smooth out wrinkles and walk out confident!

#botox #tempsureenvi #tempsure #rftreatment #microneedling #anteagegrowthfactors #anteagemd #wrinklefree #emface #picowayresolve #resurfxfractional #almahybridlaser #fractionalresurfacing #laserresufacing #boardcertified #nycdermatologist #dysport

174 1
Open post by dermatologyandlasergroup with ID 17976164606287923

Don’t let your lines define you!

Collagen is one of the most important aspects when it comes to diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. Radio frequency and/or tiny controlled injuries to the skin boost collagen leading to an improvement in elasticity - one of the most important aspects when it comes to improving skin texture and “bounce”.

Botox and other toxins work a bit differently by temporarily relaxing facial muscles that cause deep lines and wrinkles.

The end results are all the same -smooth and wrinkle free skin!

All consultations and procedures are tailored towards you and your skin - reach out today and find out how DLG can help you smooth out wrinkles and walk out confident!

#botox #tempsureenvi #tempsure #rftreatment #microneedling #anteagegrowthfactors #anteagemd #wrinklefree #emface #picowayresolve #resurfxfractional #almahybridlaser #fractionalresurfacing #laserresufacing #boardcertified #nycdermatologist #dysport
...

Nanoneedling is a procedure where thousands of very thin and shallow micro-injuries are introduced into the skin. The channels created allow us to introduce growth factors and other skin boosting serums into the skin to maximize the results with zero downtime. Typically patients are only slightly pink for 24 hours after treatment and they report a glow and healthier looking skin within days.

By creating tiny controlled injuries, both nanoneedling and microneedling trigger the body’s wound healing pathway, leading to a boost in collagen and elastin. This means tighter, smoother, and more even-toned skin!

Either one can be great on their own or the perfect add-on to so many procedures... But which one is best for YOU? Although the possibilities are endless, a consultation with Dr. Akhavan is the best way to determine which pathway is best for your skin.

Your results are waiting for you!

#microneedling #prptreatment #tattooremoval #hydrafacialmd #anteagegrowthfactor #collagen #shrinkpores #facialrejuventation #finelinesandwrinkles #dermatologynyc #skincare #beauty #abdominalrejuvenation #stretchmarkremoval

220 0
Open post by dermatologyandlasergroup with ID 18183319927252058

Nanoneedling is a procedure where thousands of very thin and shallow micro-injuries are introduced into the skin. The channels created allow us to introduce growth factors and other skin boosting serums into the skin to maximize the results with zero downtime. Typically patients are only slightly pink for 24 hours after treatment and they report a glow and healthier looking skin within days.

By creating tiny controlled injuries, both nanoneedling and microneedling trigger the body’s wound healing pathway, leading to a boost in collagen and elastin. This means tighter, smoother, and more even-toned skin!

Either one can be great on their own or the perfect add-on to so many procedures... But which one is best for YOU? Although the possibilities are endless, a consultation with Dr. Akhavan is the best way to determine which pathway is best for your skin.

Your results are waiting for you!

#microneedling #prptreatment #tattooremoval #hydrafacialmd #anteagegrowthfactor #collagen #shrinkpores #facialrejuventation #finelinesandwrinkles #dermatologynyc #skincare #beauty #abdominalrejuvenation #stretchmarkremoval
...

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of acne do you treat at The Dermatology and Laser Group?

We treat all types of acne, including comedonal acne (blackheads and whiteheads), inflammatory acne (papules and pustules), and more severe forms such as nodules and cysts. Our personalized treatment plans are tailored to your specific type of acne to ensure the most effective results.

Most of our acne treatment plans start with The DLG Acne Treatment Protocol where we combine The Clarifying Hydrafacial Treatment and Nutrafol Skin.

How do you customize acne treatment plans?

Our approach begins with a thorough assessment of your skin by Dr. Arash Akhavan and our team of skincare experts. We consider factors such as the type and severity of your acne, your skin type, and any underlying causes. Based on this evaluation, we create a customized treatment plan that may include in-office procedures like the Clarifying Hydrafacial or Lumenis M22, as well as at-home care with OTC and prescription products.

Can OTC products be effective for acne, or do I need prescription medication?

Over-the-counter (OTC) products can be very effective for mild to moderate acne, especially when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes professional guidance. However, for more severe or persistent acne, prescription medications may be necessary. At The Dermatology and Laser Group, we often combine OTC products with prescription treatments to provide a holistic and effective solution tailored to your skin’s needs.

Do you still offer Aviclear Laser for acne?

We have decided to discontinue the use of the Aviclear laser.  Much like our colleagues, we have found the results with Aviclear to be inconsistent.  And unfortunately we saw some of our patients even have a worsening of their acne.  Some patients of other offices have even reported worsening of acne after Aviclear that led to scarring.

The Aviclear is also very expensive and painful.

For all of these reasons we have decided to discontinue Aviclear.

Do you also offer treatments for acne scars?

Yes!  Acne scar treatment is actually one of our most popular treatments at The Dermatology and Laser Group. We treat acne scars with our many laser options, microneedling, and chemical peels.  Dr. Arash Akhavan uses his expertise as one of New York’s top cosmetic physicians  to customize the best treatment for each patient.

This Page is Authored By: Arash Akhavan, M.D., board-certified dermatologist, and founder and owner of The Dermatology and Laser Group in New York City.

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