Reduce Breakouts with Help from Our New York Team
Acne Treatment on Fifth Avenue, NYC
Acne is a common skin condition of the hair follicle and oil (sebaceous) gland. It can appear as blackheads and whiteheads (comedonal acne), red inflamed bumps and pustules (inflammatory acne), or deeper, tender nodules and cysts (cystic acne). While it often starts in adolescence, many adults in New York experience acne breakouts related to hormones, stress, skincare products, or other triggers. Our dermatology team evaluates your skin type, acne pattern, and lifestyle to create a plan that treats current breakouts and helps prevent future ones.
Ready to address acne in New York with a customized plan?
Call (212) 725-4555 or book an appointment online with our team at Dr. Dennis Gross Dermatology on Fifth Avenue in New York City. We serve Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, Bronx, and the surrounding communities, including New Jersey and Connecticut.
Dr. Dennis Gross
Decades of Distinction
Behind every treatment is decades of research, training, and expertise. We are dedicated to helping our patients look and feel their best.

25+ years as a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon, founder of his 5th Avenue Manhattan practice. A New York Magazine Best Doctor and a trusted voice on national TV, from The Today Show to CNN. He’s also the author of Your Future Face: The Customized Plan to Look Younger at Any Age. 25+ years as a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon.
World-Renowned Dermatologist
Founded his award-winning skincare brand in 2000, now carried by Sephora, Nordstrom, and MECCA Beauty. He continues to serve as the brand’s Chief Science Officer.
Founder of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare™
Before opening his practice, Dr. Gross conducted extensive melanoma research at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, studying how the immune system recognizes cancer cells. His findings were published in peer-reviewed journals including the Journal of Experimental Medicine and the Journal of Medical Microbiology.
Skin Cancer Research
A native New Yorker, Dr. Gross has spent his career and personal life rooted in the city he serves. He sits on the Board of Animal Care Centers of NY, championing animal welfare initiatives across the five boroughs, and shares a busy family life in Manhattan with his wife and business partner, Carrie, and their four children.
Beyond the Practice
Our Experts
Your Trusted Experts in Professional Dermatology
Lara Battema, LE, MPH
Lia Trojansky, PA-C
Hilary Reich M.D.
Common Acne Symptoms
Acne symptoms can vary from person to person and can be mild, moderate, or severe. Signs may include:
What Causes Acne?
Acne causes are multifactorial and typically include excess oil production, sticky skin cells that clog pores, Cutibacterium acnes bacteria, and inflammation. Hormonal shifts (adolescence, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopause), genetics, stress, certain medications, occlusive cosmetics or hair products, friction (helmets, masks), and diet can influence acne symptoms. We will review your history to identify personal triggers and tailor acne treatment accordingly.
Personalized Acne Treatment Options
We may recommend a combination of treatments for clearer skin. Options can include professional chemical peels to unclog pores and target discoloration; light- and laser-based therapies to address redness from healing lesions and help regulate breakouts; and targeted extractions when appropriate. For patients with persistent inflammation or cystic flares, cortisone injections can quickly calm tender nodules.
Your dermatologist may prescribe topical retinoids, antibiotic or anti-inflammatory combinations, azelaic acid, or sulfur-based formulas. For widespread or scarring acne, oral options such as antibiotics, spironolactone (hormonal modulation), or isotretinoin may be considered when medically appropriate. We will also streamline your routine with medical-grade cleansers, exfoliants, and non-comedogenic moisturizers and sunscreens to support results.
Leading a healthy lifestyle helps to manage your breakouts. Establishing good habits such as cleansing twice daily and after workouts, avoiding harsh scrubbing, choosing oil-free/non-comedogenic makeup and hair products, and laundering pillowcases regularly help to manage breakouts. Additionally, managing stress, and maintaining a antioxidant-rich and balanced diet is critically important for the health of your skin. We will personalize guidance to your skin and goals.
FAQ
Let’s Talk About Your Skin’s Needs
We’re here to make your skincare journey simple, stress-free, and tailored just for you.
Haven’t got an answer?
Book An Appointment Online.
Most people with active breakouts or acne scarring are candidates. We treat teens and adults of all skin tones. During your consultation, we will evaluate your acne symptoms, medical history, and any prior therapies to determine the safest, most effective approach.
Some mild acne may improve over time, but many people experience ongoing or cyclical flares. Early, evidence-based acne treatment can help reduce the risk of acne scarring and discoloration. We focus on clearing current lesions and preventing new ones with a plan that fits your lifestyle.
Timelines vary by severity and treatment type. Topical regimens typically require several weeks of consistent use; in-office treatments may accelerate results. We will set realistic expectations and adjust your plan as your skin responds.
Haven’t got an answer?
Book An Appointment Online.
Find Your Perfect Skincare Plan
Take the next step toward clearer skin. Call (212) 725-4555 or book an appointment online with our team at Dr. Dennis Gross Dermatology in New York City for acne care. We serve Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, Bronx, and the surrounding communities, including New Jersey and Connecticut.
Treating Acne Scarring and Discoloration
Acne Scarring Solutions
If acne scarring remains after breakouts are controlled, we can design a targeted plan. Options may include microneedling or laser genesis, fractional laser skin resurfacing for texture and tone, Sofwave, chemical peels for surface irregularities and discoloration, and dermal fillers such as Sculptra® or Juvéderm® for select atrophic scars. Light and laser treatments can also reduce persistent redness (post-inflammatory erythema). Treatment selection depends on scar type (ice pick, boxcar, rolling), skin tone, downtime preferences, and medical history.
Acne and Other Skin Health Concerns
At Dr. Dennis Gross Dermatology, acne is a primary focus, with customized treatments for breakouts, congestion, and acne scarring. We also treat pigmentation concerns such as melasma, sunspots, and uneven tone, along with eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, and hair loss. Additional care addresses fine lines and wrinkles, redness, texture changes, and other signs of aging. Our approach combines medical dermatology and advanced aesthetic treatments to support clearer, healthier-looking skin.



