Acne treatment
Symptoms
- Blackheads and whiteheads
- Papules (small red bumps)
- Pustules (spots with white tips)
- Nodules (large, hard lumps under the skin)
- Cysts (large pus-filled lumps)
Who this service is for
- Adults and teenagers aged 16 and over
- Those with moderate to severe acne
- People who haven't responded to OTC treatments
This service is not suitable for
- Pregnant women (some treatments)
- Those with very sensitive skin conditions
- People allergic to common acne treatments
When to seek urgent care
Contact your GP or seek emergency care immediately if you experience:
- Sudden severe acne outbreak
- Acne causing significant scarring
- Signs of skin infection (spreading redness, warmth)
Treatment information
Acne treatment depends on severity. Options range from prescription creams and gels to oral tablets, sometimes in combination, and usually take eight to twelve weeks to show. Severe or scarring acne may need a specialist, which your prescriber will say. Every request is assessed from your photographs and history.
Prescription treatment is only supplied following a clinical assessment. If treatment is not clinically appropriate, you will not be charged for medication.
Reviewed by
Anand Sharma
MRPharmS, Independent Prescriber
Superintendent Pharmacist (designate)
Important information
This is a private healthcare service. Prescription medications are only supplied following a clinical assessment by a qualified prescriber. Treatment is not guaranteed and will only be provided where clinically appropriate. Alternative options may be discussed.