Acne Treatment London | Top Dermatologists & Specialists

Acne Treatment in London

Acne treatment in London is provided by 80+ GMC-registered consultant dermatologists across Harley Street, central boroughs, and outer London prescribing prescription-strength topical retinoids, oral antibiotics, hormonal therapy for women, and isotretinoin for severe acne achieving 80-90% clearance within 3-6 months. Treatment costs £250-£350 for initial consultation plus £30-£150 monthly for prescriptions with most dermatologists accepting Bupa, Axa, and Aviva insurance covering medical acne therapy.

Dermatologists treat mild acne with topical benzoyl peroxide and retinoids, moderate acne with oral antibiotics and combined topical therapy, severe acne with isotretinoin courses lasting 4-6 months, and acne scarring with laser resurfacing, chemical peels, and microneedling. Early treatment prevents permanent scarring affecting face, chest, back, and shoulders.Treatment Options for Acne

Topical Treatments (Mild Acne)

Retinoids - First-line treatment unclogging pores and reducing inflammation

Prescription retinoids include:

• Tretinoin (Retin-A): 0.025%-0.1% cream, strongest prescription retinoid

• Adapalene (Differin): 0.1%-0.3% gel, gentler than tretinoin

• Tazarotene: 0.05%-0.1% gel, most potent retinoid

Application: Once nightly, start with pea-sized amount for entire face, gradually increase frequency. Initial purge (worsening) for 2-4 weeks is normal. Results visible at 6-12 weeks.

Benzoyl Peroxide - Kills acne bacteria, reduces inflammation

Concentrations: 2.5%-10% (higher concentrations not more effective, more irritating)
Forms: Gel, cream, wash
Use: Once or twice daily, can combine with retinoids (apply at different times)

Topical Antibiotics - Reduce bacteria, anti-inflammatory

Options: Clindamycin, erythromycin (always combined with benzoyl peroxide to prevent resistance)
Duration: Maximum 12 weeks to prevent antibiotic resistance

Azelaic Acid - Unclogs pores, reduces pigmentation

Concentration: 15-20% gel
Benefits: Suitable for sensitive skin, reduces post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Use: Twice daily

Oral Antibiotics (Moderate Acne)

Dermatologists prescribe oral antibiotics for inflammatory acne not controlled by topicals:

Doxycycline - Most commonly prescribed

• Dose: 100mg once or twice daily

• Duration: 3-6 months maximum

• Photosensitivity: Use sunscreen, avoid sunbeds

• Not suitable for pregnancy

Lymecycline - Alternative tetracycline

• Dose: 408mg once daily

• Better tolerated by some patients

• Similar efficacy to doxycycline

Minocycline - Reserved for resistant cases

• Higher cost, rare side effects (dizziness, pigmentation)

• Typically second-line after doxycycline

Erythromycin - Alternative for those who cannot take tetracyclines

• Safe in pregnancy

• Increasing bacterial resistance limiting effectiveness

Treatment approach:

• Combine with topical retinoid

• Continue for 3 months, reassess

• If no improvement by 3 months, consider isotretinoin

• Taper gradually to prevent relapse

Isotretinoin (Roaccutane) - Severe Acne

Isotretinoin provides definitive acne cure for severe nodular acne, moderate acne causing scarring, or acne resistant to antibiotics achieving 85-90% long-term clearance.

Eligibility:

• Severe acne with nodules/cysts

• Moderate acne causing scarring

• Acne not responding to 3+ months antibiotics

• Significant psychological impact

• Age 12+ (earlier in exceptional cases)

Treatment course:

• Duration: 4-6 months typically

• Dose: 0.5-1mg/kg body weight daily

• Cumulative dose: 120-150mg/kg for best outcomes

• Monitoring: Monthly appointments with blood tests

Side effects:

• Dry skin and lips (universal, manageable with moisturisers)

• Dry eyes (use lubricating drops)

• Muscle aches (especially with exercise)

• Mood changes (monitored closely)

• Liver function changes (monthly blood tests)

• Raised cholesterol (monthly monitoring)

Pregnancy prevention:

• SEVERE birth defects risk

• Two forms of contraception required

• Monthly pregnancy tests

• Continue contraception 1 month after finishing

Success rates:

• 85% achieve long-term remission after single course

• 15% require second course

• Results permanent in most patients

Top isotretinoin prescribers in London:

• Dr. Justine Kluk - Harley Street acne specialist

• Dr. Anjali Mahto - Medical dermatology

• Dr. Sam Bunting - Evidence-based acne treatment

Hormonal Therapy (Women)

Women with hormonal acne benefit from anti-androgen treatments:

Combined Oral Contraceptive

• Contains oestrogen + progestogen

• Reduces androgen effects on oil glands

• Takes 3-6 months for full effect

• Options: Yasmin, Dianette (Dianette reserved for severe cases)

Spironolactone

• Anti-androgen medication

• Dose: 50-100mg daily

• Takes 3-6 months for effect

• Regular blood pressure and potassium monitoring

• Not suitable during pregnancy (contraception required)

Hormonal acne characteristics:

• Jawline and chin distribution

• Cyclical flares before periods

• Adult-onset acne

• Persistent despite topical treatment

Procedural Treatments

Chemical Peels

• Glycolic acid, salicylic acid peels

• Unclogs pores, reduces inflammation

• 4-6 sessions for optimal results

• £150-£300 per session

Laser and Light Therapy

• Blue light therapy kills acne bacteria

• PDL laser reduces inflammation

• 4-8 sessions required

• £200-£400 per session

Steroid Injections

• For large painful cysts

• Intralesional triamcinolone

• Rapid flattening within 48-72 hours

• £100-£200 per session

Top Acne Specialists in London

Dr. Justine Kluk - Harley Street

Acne specialist combining medical therapy with cosmetic procedures treating complex acne and scarring. Prescribes isotretinoin, manages hormonal acne, and provides laser scar treatment.

Expertise: Severe acne, isotretinoin, acne scarring
Consultation: £280
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva accepted
Profile: View Dr. Justine Kluk

Dr. Anjali Mahto - Harley Street

Medical and cosmetic dermatologist specialising in acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation especially in skin of colour. Provides isotretinoin, hormonal therapy, and pigmentation treatment.

Expertise: Acne in skin of colour, pigmentation, hormonal acne
Consultation: £275
Insurance: Bupa, Axa accepted
Profile: View Dr. Anjali Mahto

Dr. Sam Bunting - Marylebone

Evidence-based acne specialist integrating prescription retinoids, oral medications, and skincare protocols. Known for systematic approach to resistant acne.

Expertise: Prescription skincare, resistant acne, retinoid protocols
Consultation: £285
Insurance: Self-pay primarily
Profile: View Dr. Sam Bunting

Dr. Shaaira Nasir - Multiple Locations

General and paediatric dermatologist treating acne across all ages including teenage acne and adult hormonal acne.

Expertise: Teenage acne, adult acne, paediatric dermatology
Consultation: £260
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva accepted
Profile: View Dr. Shaaira Nasir

Dr. Adam Friedmann - Harley Street Dermatology Clinic

Comprehensive acne treatment from topical therapy through isotretinoin with 20+ years experience managing severe cases.

Expertise: All acne severities, isotretinoin prescribing
Consultation: £300
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva, Vitality, WPA accepted
Profile: View clinic

City Dermatology Clinic - City of London

Convenient City location offering acne treatment with same-day appointments for urgent cases and flexible scheduling for professionals.

Expertise: All acne treatments, rapid access
Consultation: £250
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva, Vitality accepted
Profile: View clinic

Who Needs Acne Treatment?

When to See a Dermatologist

Mild acne - Over-the-counter treatments failed after 8-12 weeks:

• Blackheads, whiteheads, few papules/pustules

• Try pharmacy benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid first

• See dermatologist if no improvement

Moderate acne - Requires prescription treatment:

• Widespread papules and pustules

• Affecting self-esteem

• Early scarring developing

• See dermatologist promptly

Severe acne - Urgent dermatology referral:

• Painful nodules and cysts

• Extensive inflammation

• Active scarring

• Significant psychological impact

• See dermatologist within 2 weeks

Acne in specific groups:

• Teenagers - early treatment prevents scarring

• Women with hormonal acne - may need hormonal therapy

• Adults with new-onset acne - investigate underlying causes

• Acne with scarring - urgent treatment prevents permanent damage

Red Flags Requiring Urgent Assessment

• Sudden severe acne flare

• Acne with fever or feeling unwell

• Acne fulminans (rare severe form)

• Acne in young children (may indicate hormonal disorder)

• Extensive scarring developing rapidly

Acne Treatment Costs in London

Consultation Fees

Treatment Costs

Procedure Costs

Insurance Coverage

Private medical insurance typically covers:

COVERED:

• Medical acne consultations

• Prescription medications (isotretinoin, antibiotics, retinoids)

• Necessary blood tests

• Follow-up monitoring

• Scar treatment (if medically necessary)

NOT COVERED:

• Cosmetic procedures (elective chemical peels)

• Cosmetic scar revision

• Over-the-counter products

Pre-authorisation required for:

• Isotretinoin courses

• Specialist referrals

• Procedural treatments

Most dermatologists accept Bupa, Axa, Aviva, and Vitality. Verify coverage before booking.

View insurance coverage guide for details.

Acne Scar Treatment

Scar Types

Atrophic Scars (Depressed)

• Ice pick scars: Deep, narrow pits

• Boxcar scars: Broad, box-like depressions

• Rolling scars: Wavy, undulating depressions

Hypertrophic Scars (Raised)

• Raised, thickened scars

• Common on chest and back

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

• Dark marks, not true scars

• Fade over 6-12 months

• Accelerated with treatments

Scar Treatment Options

Laser Resurfacing

• Fractional CO2 laser - gold standard

• Erbium laser - gentler option

• 3-6 sessions, £400-£1,500 per session

• 50-70% improvement typical

• 5-10 days downtime per session

Microneedling

• Stimulates collagen production

• 4-6 sessions, £200-£500 per session

• Minimal downtime (2-3 days)

• 30-50% improvement

• Can combine with PRP

Chemical Peels

• TCA cross for ice pick scars

• Medium depth peels for overall texture

• 4-8 sessions, £150-£400 per session

• Best for superficial scarring

Subcision

• Releases tethered scars

• For rolling scars

• £300-£600 per session

• Combines well with fillers

Dermal Fillers

• Temporary filling of deep scars

• Hyaluronic acid fillers

• £300-£600 per syringe

• Lasts 6-12 months

Top scar treatment specialists:

• Professor Firas Al-Niaimi - Laser specialist

• Dr. Anjali Mahto - Scar and pigmentation

Browse cosmetic dermatologists for scar revision specialists.

Treatment Timeline & What to Expect

Week 1-4: Initial Phase

• Start topical treatments or oral antibiotics

• Possible initial purge (worsening before improvement)

• Skin adjustment period

• Side effects: dryness, redness, peeling

Month 2-3: Early Improvement

• Reduction in new spots

• Existing spots healing faster

• 30-50% improvement typically

• Continue consistent treatment

Month 3-6: Significant Improvement

• 70-90% clearance achievable

• Skin texture improving

• Confidence rebuilding

• Maintenance therapy planning

Isotretinoin Timeline

• Month 1: Initial dryness, possible purge

• Month 2-3: Gradual improvement begins

• Month 4-5: Significant clearance

• Month 6: Course completion, skin clear

• Post-treatment: Remission maintained

Maintenance Phase

• Continue topical retinoids long-term

• Periodic dermatologist review (every 6-12 months)

• Prompt treatment of any flares

• Scar treatment if needed

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does acne treatment take to work?

Acne treatment requires 3-6 months for significant improvement. Topical treatments show results at 6-12 weeks with 70-80% improvement by 3-6 months. Oral antibiotics improve acne within 6-8 weeks achieving maximum effect at 3 months. Isotretinoin clears acne over 4-6 month courses with gradual improvement throughout. Early response at 6 weeks predicts final outcomes. Continue treatment despite slow initial progress as most patients achieve excellent clearance with persistent use.

What is the best acne treatment?

Best acne treatment depends on severity. Mild acne responds to topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) combined with benzoyl peroxide achieving clearance in 80% within 3 months. Moderate inflammatory acne requires oral antibiotics (doxycycline) plus topical retinoids for 3-6 months. Severe acne, scarring acne, or acne resistant to antibiotics needs isotretinoin achieving 85-90% long-term cure. Women with hormonal acne benefit from combined oral contraceptives or spironolactone. Early appropriate treatment prevents permanent scarring.

Does isotretinoin permanently cure acne?

Isotretinoin achieves permanent remission in 85% of patients after single 4-6 month course. The remaining 15% experience acne recurrence requiring second course or maintenance therapy. Permanent cure results from isotretinoin shrinking oil glands and normalising skin cell turnover preventing future acne formation. Complete courses (cumulative dose 120-150mg/kg) achieve better long-term outcomes than low-dose or short courses. Second courses provide similar success rates. Most patients remain acne-free decades after treatment.

Can I get isotretinoin on the NHS?

NHS dermatologists prescribe isotretinoin for severe acne, moderate acne causing scarring, or acne resistant to other treatments following NICE guidelines. GP referral required with typical 8-16 week waiting time for NHS dermatology appointment. Private dermatologists prescribe isotretinoin within 1-2 weeks after consultation. NHS provides isotretinoin free with prescriptions potentially free for under-16s, under-19s in education, low income, or medical exemptions. Private isotretinoin costs £100-£150 monthly plus consultation fees. Treatment protocol identical NHS or private.

Is acne treatment covered by insurance?

Private medical insurance including Bupa, Axa, Aviva, and Vitality covers medical acne treatment as dermatological condition requiring medical management. Coverage includes dermatology consultations, prescription medications (retinoids, antibiotics, isotretinoin, hormonal therapy), necessary blood monitoring, and follow-up appointments. Cosmetic procedures for acne scarring may have limited coverage requiring pre-authorisation. Obtain insurance pre-authorisation before starting expensive treatments like isotretinoin. Excess fees vary by policy typically £100-£250 per specialist course.

What should I avoid while on isotretinoin?

Avoid pregnancy (severe birth defects risk requiring two contraceptive methods plus monthly pregnancy tests), vitamin A supplements (increases toxicity risk), tetracycline antibiotics (increases pressure in brain), facial waxing and laser treatments (skin too fragile, severe injury risk), aggressive skin treatments (chemical peels, dermabrasion), excessive sun exposure (severe photosensitivity, always use SPF 50+), and blood donation during treatment plus 1 month after (teratogenic risk). Alcohol in moderation acceptable but excessive drinking stresses liver alongside isotretinoin.

Can teenagers take isotretinoin?

Teenagers from age 12 upwards can take isotretinoin for severe acne, scarring acne, or acne significantly affecting psychological wellbeing. Dermatologists assess maturity, understanding of treatment requirements, and family support before prescribing. Girls require comprehensive pregnancy prevention counselling, reliable contraception, and monthly pregnancy tests. Parents typically attend appointments. Growth plate concerns unfounded as isotretinoin doesn't affect bone development. Teenagers tolerate isotretinoin well with excellent compliance and outcomes. Early treatment prevents permanent facial scarring during formative years.

How much does acne treatment cost in London?

Acne treatment consultation fees cost £250-£350 initially with follow-ups £150-£250. Topical prescription treatments cost £30-£60 monthly. Oral antibiotics cost £10-£30 monthly for 3-6 month courses. Isotretinoin costs £100-£150 monthly for 4-6 month courses plus monthly monitoring appointments. Harley Street consultations average £280-£350 while other London areas charge £250-£280. Insurance covers medical acne therapy. Acne scar laser treatment costs £400-£1,500 per session needing 3-6 sessions.

Should I see a dermatologist for mild acne?

See dermatologist for mild acne if over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid failed after 8-12 weeks consistent use, acne affecting self-esteem despite being "mild", early scarring developing (dark marks, shallow depressions), or comedones (blackheads/whiteheads) covering large areas. Dermatologists prescribe prescription-strength retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) significantly more effective than pharmacy products. Early prescription treatment achieves faster clearance, prevents progression to moderate-severe acne, and minimises scarring risk. Most mild acne clears within 3 months with prescription retinoids.

What is the fastest way to clear acne?

Fastest acne clearance comes from immediate dermatologist consultation prescribing appropriate treatment. Isotretinoin provides fastest definitive cure clearing severe acne within 4-6 months with 85% permanent remission. Oral antibiotics with topical retinoids clear moderate acne in 2-3 months. Topical retinoids alone require 3-4 months. Steroid injections flatten individual large cysts within 48-72 hours. Chemical peels and laser treatments accelerate improvement when combined with medical therapy. Realistic expectations: true clearance requires months not weeks regardless of treatment aggressiveness.

Next Steps

Book Acne Treatment Consultation

Contact London acne specialists:

• Dr. Justine Kluk - Harley Street acne expert

• Dr. Anjali Mahto - Skin of colour specialist

• Dr. Sam Bunting - Evidence-based treatment

• City Dermatology Clinic - Same-day appointments

Find Acne Specialists by Location

• Harley Street dermatologists - 30+ acne specialists

Browse Related Services

• General dermatologists - All skin conditions

• Cosmetic dermatologists - Acne scar treatment

• Paediatric dermatologists - Teenage acne

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• Compare top dermatologists

• First appointment guide

• Choosing a dermatologist