Target active acne by addressing inflammation, clogged pores, bacterial overgrowth, and overactive sebaceous glands through medically guided care.
Receive expert, physician-guided acne treatment in NYC designed to treat active breakouts, prevent future flare-ups, and protect long-term skin health under the care of board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marie V. Hayag. Located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, our dermatology practice provides personalized, evidence-based acne care for adolescents and adults experiencing mild, moderate, or severe acne.



Target active acne by addressing inflammation, clogged pores, bacterial overgrowth, and overactive sebaceous glands through medically guided care.
Use evidence-based therapies tailored to your skin type to reduce irritation, minimize post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and help prevent acne scarring.
Support clearer skin over time with a customized acne management plan designed for sustainable results.
Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting approximately 50 million Americans annually, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). While frequently associated with adolescence, adult acne affects up to 15% of women and is increasingly common in high-stress urban environments like Manhattan. Professional dermatologic evaluation ensures that acne is properly diagnosed and treated before scarring or persistent pigmentation develops.
At Marie Hayag MD on the Upper East Side, acne treatment focuses on correcting the underlying drivers of breakouts, including:
Acne may present as:
Left untreated, acne can lead to atrophic scars, ice pick scars, boxcar scars, and persistent discoloration. Through physician-led evaluation and targeted therapies, treatment is designed to calm breakouts, protect the skin barrier, and maintain clearer skin long term.
Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria. Overactive sebaceous glands and inflammation play central roles in acne formation, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, or cystic lesions.
Several factors contribute to acne development:
Because acne is multifactorial, the most effective treatment approach is personalized and medically guided rather than one-size-fits-all.
Effective acne treatment begins with a comprehensive dermatologist evaluation. Dr. Marie V. Hayag assesses:
Based on your evaluation, a personalized acne treatment plan may include a combination of:
Improvement typically develops over 6–12 weeks, depending on severity and treatment type. Plans are adjusted over time to optimize results while maintaining skin comfort and barrier health.
For patients seeking advanced in-office therapy, AviClear laser acne treatment offers an innovative, FDA-cleared solution. AviClear targets sebaceous glands directly to reduce excess oil production, a primary driver of acne development, without damaging surrounding skin. By addressing acne at its source, AviClear can significantly reduce breakouts and may decrease reliance on long-term oral medications.
AviClear is:
Performed in a series of sessions, AviClear can significantly reduce breakouts and may decrease reliance on long-term medications. It integrates seamlessly into a comprehensive acne treatment plan under physician supervision.
Excellent rating
Based on 110 reviewsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Hayag has been my excellent dermatologist for more than 20 years! I won’t reveal my secrets but I will recommend her highly! Phyllis LeeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an amazing experience with Dr. Hayag! I went in for a preventative skin check and botox. She is incredibly thorough, knowledgeable, and precise. I can't wait for my next visit! Rachel AncelTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Hayag has been my dermatologist since I was young, and I truly cannot recommend her highly enough. She treated my acne when I was younger, and I have continued to see her over the years for any skin concerns that come up. She is always incredibly thorough, knowledgeable, and caring, and I completely trust her. On top of that, her entire staff is so warm, kind, and lovely, which makes every visit such a positive experience. I’m so grateful to have had her as my dermatologist for so many years. KatieTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Landy AguiarTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My entire family has been seeing Dr Hayag for over a decade for general dermatology. She’s extremely knowledgeable and provides the best level of care and advice. She’s been equally good for my kids as teens and young adults, focusing on prevention and healthy skin habits. The entire staff is kind and friendly, keeps appointments on time and has great communication. I’m a patient for life - a wonderful doctor and practice. Patricia FalconiTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Hayag is an amazing doctor. Very caring and gentle with her patients. I have been with her for years and will continue to be with her. I highly recommend her. Ann NellissenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Everyone in the office is so kind and sweet to me I appreciate how they take their time to address my concerns mimi chungTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My visit to Dr. Hayag’s Office was superb. No waiting, lovely professional help and Dr. Hayag with an easy confident manner, artistic eye and quick hands managed to make my experience the best ever. I’m so grateful to be in her care. mary ConleyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Dr. Hayag is an extraordinary dermatologist whose expertise, compassion, and commitment to excellence are unmatched. I have been under her care for over 15 years, and she remains the only dermatologist I trust implicitly. I travel from out of state, over two hours each way for my appointments, which speaks volumes about the caliber of her care. Dr. Hayag’s mastery of dermatology is second to none. She stays at the forefront of innovation, continually advancing her practice by attending leading dermatology conferences and incorporating the most cutting-edge techniques and treatments. Yet what truly distinguishes her is not just her knowledge, but her humanity. She takes the time to listen, to educate, and to ensure her patients feel understood and empowered in every decision. Her genuine care and personal attention are evident in every interaction. She is meticulous, insightful, and wholly dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for her patients. Her office reflects her professionalism and taste, immaculate, serene, and inviting. Her staff embodies the same warmth and excellence she brings to her work, creating an environment that feels both luxurious and deeply personal. Dr. Hayag represents the gold standard in dermatology: exceptional skill, unwavering integrity, and a sincere devotion to her patients’ well-being. I highly and wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking the very best in dermatologic care. Mary Ann MTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My favorite mult-generational doctor! A long-time patient, I trust her judgment and skills so much that I've sent my daughters to Dr. Hayag too! Bee-Ann Benson
Professional acne treatment offers more than temporary improvement. Potential benefits include:
Early intervention is particularly important for patients prone to scarring or darker skin tones, where untreated inflammation can lead to persistent pigmentation changes. Professional treatment also helps reduce the emotional and psychological impact that persistent acne can cause.
Your consultation includes a detailed review of acne type, severity, triggers, skincare habits, and medical history.
A customized plan may combine topical therapies, oral medications, and in-office procedures based on your needs.
Acne treatment requires follow-up and refinement. Adjustments are made to maximize improvement while minimizing irritation.
Once acne is controlled, maintenance therapy helps reduce recurrence and preserve clarity.
Acne treatment is appropriate for adolescents and adults experiencing:
Patients seeking acne treatment in NYC often want medically guided care beyond over-the-counter solutions. A consultation ensures treatment is safe, personalized, and appropriate for your skin type and medical history.
If you are searching for expert acne treatment in NYC, our Upper East Side dermatology practice provides physician-led, evidence-based care tailored to your skin type and acne severity. Under the care of Dr. Marie V. Hayag, each treatment plan is customized to address inflammation, prevent scarring, and support lasting skin clarity.
Call 212.722.2055 or book online to schedule your personalized acne consultation in New York City.
The best treatment depends on acne type and severity. Many patients benefit from a combination of retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, oral medications, or in-office procedures such as AviClear.
Most medical acne therapies require 6-12 weeks for visible improvement. Consistency and follow-up are essential.
Acne is often a chronic inflammatory condition. While it may not be permanently cured, dermatologist-guided treatment can achieve long-term control and significantly reduce recurrence.
Yes. Laser acne treatments such as AviClear target sebaceous glands to reduce excess oil production and can significantly decrease breakouts, particularly in moderate to severe or treatment-resistant acne.
Adult acne is commonly linked to hormonal fluctuations, stress, genetics, and environmental triggers.
Cost varies depending on the treatment plan. During your consultation, a personalized plan and pricing will be reviewed.
Book a personalized consultation with Marie Hayag’s expert team and receive acne treatment guided by medical expertise and individualized care.

212.722.2055