Acne Treatment

Acne is a condition very common is the adolescent poplulation. However, many people do not "outgrow" acne and acne can also first develop in adulthood. Common ways to treat acne include oral antibiotics, medicated cleansers, and prescription creams. Despite these accepted treatments, responses are variable and the acne may persist, even into adulthood.

At Madison Avenue Plastic Surgery, we utilize advanced treatment modalities that include medical microdermabrasion, superficial chemical peels, and light and Laser technologies. These treatments can result in significant improvement in active acne lesions as well as a reduction in future acne outbreaks or "flares." We also utilize the latest in Laser technology to help reduce the appearance of scars that persist long after the acne resolves.

An evaluation of your skin will enable us to formulate a treatment protocol designed to meet your needs. This treatment protocol has been successful in even the most severe cases of acne resistant to other therapies.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • We recommend 8 treatment sessions over 4 weeks.

  • Yes. The treatment will cause a decrease in the inflammation and size of an acne lesion within 24-48 hours. The most significant improvement is usually seen after only the second or third treatment session.

  • Yes. We have found that a single treatment with an IPL over an isolated papule or blemish results in a more rapid resolution. We have found that IPL "spot treatments" can be as effective as steroid injections, without the side effects.

  • Yes. If you are already taking oral antibiotics or using topical creams (antibiotics or retinoids), you may continue to do so during your IPL treatments. These medicines are often "sun-sensitizing" and may make you more likely to have prolonged redness after each treatment sessions. You also may experience some more dryness during the days following each treatment session.


21 East 87th Street
(at Madison Avenue)
New York, NY 10128
Phone: 212-722-1977
Fax: 212-722-2283