Expert Acne Treatment in London – Consultant Dermatologist
Acne is common, but persistent breakouts and marks are not something you have to live with. Our consultant‑led clinic in Maida Vale designs evidence‑based plans, combining prescriptions with in‑clinic support to give clear, lasting results. Learn more about acne.
Consultant Dermatologist‑led • CQC‑regulated • Maida Vale, West London
Acne Treatment: At a Glance
- Best for: Comedonal, inflammatory and nodulocystic acne; acne marks; early scar prevention
- Core tools: Targeted topicals, short‑course antibiotics (when indicated), hormonal therapy, isotretinoin (selected), skincare
- Adjuncts: LED to calm inflammation; Hydrofacial for congestion; Carbon laser for oil/texture; Microneedling for scars (post‑clear)
- Onset: Tenderness/new spots 2–4 weeks; texture/marks 6–12 weeks; scar work after control
- Not suitable if: Isotretinoin contraindicated in pregnancy; some devices avoided on active cysts
- Setting: Consultant‑led, CQC‑regulated dermatology clinic
Introduction
Acne affects confidence, comfort and can leave long‑term marks. We define your pattern (comedonal, inflammatory, nodulocystic, mask‑related) and triggers (products, hormones, sweat/occlusion), then tailor a plan across medical therapy, in‑clinic treatments and routine. You receive a written schedule with step‑up/step‑down instructions and realistic timelines.
Ready to calm breakouts and protect your skin long‑term?
What Is Acne?
Acne is driven by excess oil, sticky dead skin and bacteria within the follicle. Lesions can be comedones, papules/pustules or deeper nodules/cysts. Hormones, genetics, cosmetics and friction/occlusion can all contribute. We also consider mimics such as perioral dermatitis and steroid acne to ensure the right plan from day one.
Diagnosis & Assessment
- Consultant review: lesion types, sites (face/back/chest), severity, scarring risk
- Triggers & lifestyle: skincare, makeup, sweat/occlusion, stress/sleep, menstrual pattern
- Hormonal clues: adult female acne, PCOS features; contraception discussion where suitable
- PIH & scarring: plan early prevention and later treatment once clear
Personalised Treatment Options We Offer
Topical Treatments (foundation)
We match actives and textures to skin/site. Options include keratolytics and anti‑inflammatories; plans specify frequency, layering and pauses to minimise irritation and maximise results.
First‑ & Second‑Line Antibiotics
For moderate inflammatory patterns, a time‑limited course may be used with appropriate topicals to reduce resistance. We avoid antibiotic monotherapy and review regularly.
Hormonal Treatment (selected patients)
Where hormones drive breakouts, choices may include specific combined oral contraceptives or anti‑androgens. We review suitability, interactions and monitoring, and liaise with your GP when needed.
Isotretinoin
For severe, scarring or relapsing acne, isotretinoin can be transformative. We cover benefits, risks, blood tests and pregnancy prevention measures, plus dryness‑management skincare to keep you comfortable.
Carbon Laser (carbon peel)
Helps decongest pores, reduce oil and refine texture with minimal downtime. Useful for oiliness and persistent congestion. Learn more on our Carbon Laser page.
Hydrofacial (deep cleanse & extraction)
Device‑assisted cleanse/exfoliation/extraction to clear debris and support maintenance. Great for congestion and blackheads; not for severe inflamed cysts. See Hydrofacial.
LED Phototherapy
Calms inflammation and supports recovery with excellent tolerability and no downtime. Often combined with topicals for quicker settling. Learn more about LED Phototherapy.
Microneedling (for acne scars)
Once inflammation is controlled, microneedling can soften atrophic scars and texture irregularities by stimulating collagen. We avoid needling active cysts and schedule courses for best results. More on Microneedling.
Skincare Products (supportive)
Consistent, non‑comedogenic skincare supports barrier health and enhances medical outcomes. We stock clinic‑approved cleansers, light hydrators and SPF, personalised after consultation.
Your Care Journey
- Consultation & Diagnosis: confirm acne subtype; identify triggers; assess scarring risk
- Written Plan: AM/PM steps, layering, when to step up or pause
- In‑Clinic Support: Hydrofacial, LED, carbon laser as appropriate; scheduling aligned with prescriptions
- Review & Optimise: response check at 6–12 weeks; adjust doses/devices; plan scar work once clear
Special Situations We Consider
- Hormonal acne / PCOS: tailored hormonal strategies when suitable
- Pregnancy & breastfeeding: safety‑prioritised regimens; device timing reviewed
- Mask‑related acne (occlusion): fabric choice, cleanse routine, barrier support
- Skin of colour: prevent/treat post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation with careful product selection and timing
Triggers, Skincare & Daily Habits
Keep routines simple: gentle cleanse twice daily; avoid harsh scrubs; choose non‑comedogenic makeup/hair products; shower after sweat; rotate clean pillowcases; avoid tight, occlusive clothing on breakout‑prone areas. A lower glycaemic‑load pattern may help some people.
Daily Skin Routine (Acne‑Friendly)
A steady routine calms inflammation, reduces new blockages and supports prescriptions. Use soap‑free cleansers, avoid over‑exfoliation and apply SPF daily. Patch‑test new products for 24 hours.
Morning (AM)
- Cleanse: CB Sebum Control Cleansing Bar or CF Seboperfect Mouss 100 ml
- Treat (if advised): CF azela gel 30 ml or CF Azela Soothing
- Hydrate (light): CF Seboperfect Hydrating Cream 30 ml
- Protect: CF SPF Clear / CF SPF Gold / CF SPF Bronze
Evening (PM)
- Double cleanse if needed: CB Sebum Control → rinse → CF Seboperfect Mouss
- Treat (targeted): CF Azela Corrector or CF Seboperfect Serum 15 ml
- Moisturise (as needed): CF Seboperfect Lotion 100 ml
Safety & Potential Risks
We use the least‑burdensome effective plan and monitor progress. Antibiotics are short and combined appropriately. Isotretinoin needs blood tests and pregnancy prevention measures; devices are performed with careful selection and timing.
Expected Outcomes
Calmer, less painful breakouts within 2–4 weeks; more even texture and fewer new lesions by 6–12 weeks; scar improvement with planned courses. Aim: clear or almost‑clear skin with a simple maintenance routine.
Patient Experience
“The plan finally stopped the constant chin spots — I’m comfortable going makeup‑free again.”
— Verified Skinhorizon acne patient
Why Choose Skinhorizon for Acne Care?
- Consultant‑led: personalised, evidence‑based plans for all acne types
- Full toolkit: prescriptions, LED, Hydrofacial, carbon laser and microneedling
- Clear regimen: simple AM/PM steps and tapering
- Regulated setting: CQC‑regulated and medical‑grade equipment
- Holistic support: product guidance, lifestyle coaching and scar prevention strategies
Book Your Consultation
Get expert, personalised treatment to calm breakouts and protect your skin long‑term.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long until I see improvement?
Do I need antibiotics?
Is isotretinoin right for me?
Can devices help?
This page was reviewed by Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist, last updated September 2025.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general education and not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Suitability is determined after an in‑person assessment.
