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Acne Treatment at Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the United States and can affect patients of all ages. While acne is often associated with adolescence, many adults experience persistent or new-onset acne as well. At Dermatology Associates of Ithaca, we provide personalized acne treatment plans designed to address your unique skin concerns and reduce the risk of long-term scarring.
Our board-certified dermatology providers take a comprehensive approach to acne care, focusing on effective treatment, education, and ongoing support to help you achieve clearer, healthier skin.
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What to Expect During an Acne Evaluation

An acne evaluation helps determine the underlying causes of breakouts and the most effective treatment options for your skin.
During your visit, your provider will:
  • Review your medical history and prior acne treatments
  • Ask about the duration, severity, and location of breakouts
  • Assess lifestyle, skincare products, and potential triggers
  • Examine your skin to determine acne type and severity
  • Create a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs
Acne treatments often require time and consistency. Your provider will explain what results to expect and how long it may take to see improvement.
Schedule an Acne Consultation

Why Treating Acne Is Important

While acne is not dangerous, untreated acne can lead to:
  • Permanent scarring
  • Dark spots or discoloration
  • Emotional distress and decreased confidence
Early and appropriate treatment can help prevent long-term skin damage and improve overall skin health.
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Common Acne Treatment Options

Treatment recommendations depend on the type and severity of acne and may include a combination of therapies.

Topical Treatments

Topical medications are commonly used for mild to moderate acne and may include:

  • Topical retinoids, which help prevent clogged pores and promote skin turnover Note: Mild dryness or irritation is common initially and usually improves with continued use. Visible improvement often takes several weeks.
  • Benzoyl peroxide, which reduces acne-causing bacteria and inflammation and is available over the counter as a wash

Oral Medications

For moderate to more severe acne, oral medications may be recommended:

  • Oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline, to reduce inflammation and bacteria
  • Hormonal evaluation, when acne may be related to underlying hormonal imbalance

Isotretinoin (Accutane)

Isotretinoin may be recommended for severe, scarring acne that does not respond to other treatments. It works by shrinking oil glands and reducing the formation of new acne lesions.

Isotretinoin requires careful monitoring and includes:

  • Regular follow-up appointments
  • Bloodwork as directed
  • Strict pregnancy prevention requirements for female patients
    Enrollment in the iPLEDGE program
  • Your provider will review all risks, benefits, and expectations before initiating treatment.

Lifestyle and Skincare Guidance for Acne

In addition to medical treatment, lifestyle and skincare habits play an important role in acne management.
We recommend:
  • Using non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) skincare and makeup
  • Avoiding greasy hair or skin products
  • Avoiding picking, squeezing, or popping acne lesions
  • Washing skin after sweating or exercising
  • Avoiding accessories that rub against acne-prone areas
For female patients with irregular menstrual cycles or excessive hair growth, your provider may discuss whether hormonal factors could be contributing to acne.

Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

Ongoing Care and Expectations

Acne treatment is a process. Some treatments may initially cause mild worsening before improvement occurs, and visible results often take several weeks to months. Regular follow-up allows your provider to adjust treatment as needed and support long-term success.
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Schedule an Acne Treatment Consultation

If you are struggling with acne or concerned about scarring or dark spots, our experienced dermatology providers are here to help.
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What Our Patients Say

4.9
stars rating on Google with 950+ reviews
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Karen F.

I went for a facial with Reganne, and it was wonderful! She was the right balance of chatty and quiet so that I felt personally welcomed but also able to relax and soak in all the luxurious treatment. She also was so kind and considerate, being very careful which products she used because she knew I am sensitive to some fragrances. I scheduled my appointment for the end of my regular work week, and now, this evening I’m feeling fabulous!

RJ and MJ Olson

We both chose the practice for our dermatology well checks and any issues that may be discovered during those visits. Most of the practitioners have been great. I also enjoy the facial services they offer at the practice. Both estheticians I have seen there have been wonderful! They have both been very accommodating given multiple allergies that can make my skin reactive. I look forward to my time with the esthetician.

Cathy Robinson

The entire staff is courteous and very helpful. They were right on time. They work together well. They are accepting of questions and are willing to answer the questions. They offer reminders for follow up appointments. I am very pleased to be a patient of this office.

Susan Zeller

As a new patient I greatly appreciated getting an appointment with a few days of submitting my application form instead of a long wait. The staff at the front desk were very pleasant, efficient and helpful in making this happen. The service I received from my doctor was good.

Tom

David M was great in all key areas that were important to me. Skill, bedside manner, updates during the surgery and his summary after the procedure. His nurse was also first rate. Thank you both for all that you did for me. NP Donna has treated me previously at this practice and I echo my comments here for her and the nurses, reception and scheduling employees. Thank you all for a great experience

Jennifer Gemmell

This was the most pleasant doctors appointment I’ve ever experienced. The wait wasn’t too long and there were so many beautiful and interesting things to look at while I was there: beautiful art well presented with identification and background details, fascinating terrariums and other plants, and even an Asian meditation garden. Dr. Macallister was very personable, professional and thorough. I was quite happy with her care. The staff too, were professional and pleasant.

Reece W

Saw Donna and Megan, had a concerning spot on my face. I needed an injection and they put me eat ease and really helped me to feel comfortable and relaxed. Even though the needle stung a little bit I was completely distracted with easy conversation to keep my mind off of what was going on. They were incredibly reassuring and informative and I love going to see them! Thank you Donna and Megan for a quick and easy visit! :)

Don Wood

Great experience from the time I arrived for the appointment til I was finished. Donna Brigham is the most professional specailist I've seen in quite some time. She is very good at explaining everything in layman's terms. Her bedside manner puts you at ease and makes you very comfortable with the procedures she is doing.

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