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Acne Treatment In London

Medically Reviewed by Doctor Björn Thomas, GMC: 7084005

Consultant dermatologist Dr Bjorn Thomas provides specialist assessment and treatment for acne and acne scarring.

We offer discreet, personalised plans tailored to your skin type, acne severity and tendency to scar.

Consultations are available at a choice of three central London settings: Harley Street, One Welbeck, and HCA The Shard. the Thomas Clinic offers the option of straightforward self-referral and secure online booking.

Acne can be physically uncomfortable and emotionally challenging, affecting confidence, self-esteem and day-to-day life. If previous treatments have been disappointing or only partly effective, we recognise how frustrating that can feel and offer clear, professional guidance focused on realistic, measurable results.

Our dermatologist-led approach targets stubborn adult acne, painful lesions and the prevention or improvement of lasting scars and pigmentation. We explain what is driving your acne, outline the full range of evidence-based options and support you through each step so that you can move towards calmer, clearer and healthier skin.

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About the Thomas Clinic

Overview of the Condition

The NHS states that Acne is a very common, benign inflammatory skin condition in which hair follicles become blocked and inflamed, causing blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed bumps (papules and pustules) and, in more severe cases, deeper painful cysts or nodules.

It usually starts around puberty, but many adults are affected too, particularly women who experience hormonal changes, stress or underlying conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Commonly affected areas include the face, chest and back. Breakouts in adult women often cluster along the jawline and neck.

Beyond the visible symptoms, acne can significantly impact emotional well-being. People typically report embarrassment, low self-confidence, social anxiety, or a reluctance to be photographed. Concerns about scarring or changes in skin colour are also very common. Large global studies identify acne as one of the leading causes of skin-related disability in teenagers and young adults.

Although acne has several contributing factors, specialist, dermatologist-led care can improve skin clarity, reduce flare-ups and minimise the risk of scarring. If you want to get professional advice and treatment, arrange a consultation for a time that is convenient for you.

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Features of Acne

Acne most commonly affects the face, upper back and chest. It can vary widely in appearance and severity. Typical features include:

Whiteheads (closed, clogged pores)
Blackheads (open, clogged pores)
Red, inflamed papules
Pustules (papules with pus)
Large, painful nodules
Deep cystic lesions
Scarring

When inflammation forms deeper in the skin, cysts or nodules can develop. These are often painful and carry a higher risk of scarring.

Persistent or untreated acne may also lead to scarring and pigmentation changes, which is why early professional advice is recommended.

NHS guidance advises seeking medical review for painful nodules, cysts or any acne that risks scarring or affects your mental health.

Causes and Triggers of Acne

Acne develops when hair follicles in the skin become blocked by a mixture of sebum (natural skin oil) and dead skin cells. This plug can form whiteheads or blackheads. Bacteria that normally live harmlessly on the skin then multiply inside the blocked follicles, causing inflammation and spots.

Hormones, particularly testosterone and other androgens, increase oil production from sebaceous glands. This partly explains why acne often appears in teenagers and during times of hormonal change in adults. Genetics, stress, diet and skincare habits also play a role.

Common acne triggers include:

Hormonal fluctuations: These are often related to menstrual cycles, pregnancy, hormonal contraception and conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In women, they frequently affect the jawline and chin.
Diet: For some people, dairy products (particularly skimmed milk), high-glycaemic foods such as white bread and sugary snacks, and highly processed foods may worsen breakouts.
Stress and poor sleep: Both can raise cortisol levels, which may increase sebum production and inflammation.
Pore-clogging products: Heavy or “comedogenic” make-up, sunscreens and skincare can block pores and make acne worse.

Importantly, acne is not simply caused by poor hygiene or eating chocolate; these are common myths. Understanding your personal triggers, together with professional treatment, allows acne to be managed far more effectively.

Medical Treatment Options for Acne at the Thomas Clinic

Research and clinical experience show that many people with acne either do not seek help or feel dissatisfied with previous treatment. At the Thomas Clinic, your skin and overall health are assessed carefully by Dr Thomas so that he can recommend tailored, dermatologist-led options that address current breakouts, reduce the risk of scarring and support long-term skin health.

Treatment plans may include topical (on-the-skin) medicines, oral medicines and, where appropriate, in-clinic procedures for active acne and scarring.

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments are often the first step for mild to moderate acne, and are also used alongside oral medicines for more severe disease. NHS and British Association of Dermatologists guidance highlight benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids and certain combination products as key options.

At the Thomas Clinic, topical medicines are prescribed and supervised by Dr Bjorn Thomas, with skincare advice to minimise irritation.

Benzoyl Peroxide

An antibacterial and anti-inflammatory treatment effective for mild-to-moderate acne. It reduces redness, unclogs pores, and is often combined with other treatments to enhance results.

Topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, trifarotene)

These vitamin A-derived creams and gels help to normalise the shedding of skin cells, unclog pores and reduce the formation of new comedones. They are particularly helpful for blackheads and whiteheads and can also improve overall texture and early scarring. Some newer preparations, such as trifarotene, are formulated to be effective with a lower risk of irritation in suitable patients.

Topical Antibiotics (clindamycin, erythromycin)

These medicines reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammation. To limit antibiotic resistance, they are usually prescribed together with benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid rather than used alone.

Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and can help to fade post-inflammatory pigmentation. It is often well tolerated, including in sensitive skin or in people who cannot use retinoids.

Clascoterone

Clascoterone blocks the hormones that drive acne, which reduces sebum production. It’s suitable for patients over 12 years old, and can be effective at managing milder acne, and may help to reduce inflammatory redness. It’s commonly used alongside other treatments.

Because topical treatments can sometimes cause dryness or irritation, especially in sensitive skin, your routine will be adjusted to your tolerance, with advice on gentle cleansers and moisturisers to support the skin barrier.

Oral Treatments

For moderate to severe acne, or when topical therapy alone has not been enough, oral medicines may be recommended under specialist supervision.

Oral Antibiotics (loxycycline, lymecycline):

These medicines are commonly prescribed for inflammatory acne on the face, chest, or back. They reduce bacteria and inflammation and are usually used for a limited period alongside topical treatments. Courses are reviewed regularly so that antibiotics are not continued longer than necessary.

Hormonal treatments (oral contraceptives and spironolactone)

In women whose acne is linked to hormonal fluctuations or PCOS, certain combined oral contraceptive pills and the anti-androgen tablet spironolactone can help by reducing the effect of androgens on the oil glands. This approach is particularly useful for persistent jawline or lower-face acne.

Isotretinoin (Roaccutane)

Isotretinoin is a vitamin A-derived tablet that can dramatically reduce sebum production and inflammation. In the UK it is licensed for severe acne that has not responded to other treatments or when there is a high risk of scarring. It must be prescribed and monitored by a consultant dermatologist, with regular follow-up and blood tests and strict pregnancy prevention measures.

When seen by Dr Thomas, oral therapies are recommended only after a full medical review. We discuss potential benefits and side effects in detail so that you can make an informed decision.

Clinical Procedures

In addition to medical treatments, we offer dermatologist-led procedures that can help with active acne, redness and scarring. These are carefully selected according to your skin type and treatment goals.

For active acne, Dr Thomas may recommend adding in:

Blue Light Therapy: This treatment targets acne-causing bacteria in the skin and can reduce inflammation and the number of active lesions over a course of treatments.

Pulsed dye laser (PDL) or a Non-Ablative Fractional Laser (~1550nm): This form of treatment uses a specific wavelength of light to reduce redness and inflammation associated with active inflammatory acne. Many patients find it helpful for persistent redness around spots.

While Doctor Thomas does not perform them, the following procedures may be a consideration for acne scars:

Chemical Peels: These use controlled strengths of acids such as glycolic, salicylic or trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to exfoliate the surface, stimulate collagen and smooth texture. They are well-suited to mild to moderate scarring and post-inflammatory pigmentation and are usually carried out as a course.

Microneedling: This approach creates very fine micro-channels in the skin to stimulate collagen production and skin renewal. It can be effective for rolling and some boxcar scars and for general texture improvement, often with little downtime.

Fractional CO₂ Laser: This therapy provides deeper resurfacing for significant atrophic scarring and can improve tone and texture, with a few days of downtime.

Non-ablative fractional Erbium laser (for example 1540 nm): This laser resurfaces more superficially and can be suitable for sensitive skin or for combining with other treatments.

At the Thomas Clinic, non-ablative fractional laser and PDL are carried out across a series of sessions. Treatment is accompanied by tailored skincare advice to support healing and maintain results. A thorough consultation with Dr Thomas will establish which, if any, of these procedures are appropriate for you.

Personalised Acne Treatment in London

Dr Bjorn Thomas, MBBS, PhD, MRCP, is a British-certified consultant dermatologist who specialises in inflammatory skin conditions. At either of our three London clinics, Dr Thomas provides patients with dermatologist-led care that is precisely tailored to your skin, your lifestyle and your concerns. He looks not only at the visible acne but also at factors such as hormones, stress, diet and other medical conditions so that we can design a plan that genuinely fits you.

Patients often describe Dr Thomas’s manner as calm, thorough and compassionate, highlighting the confidence they feel when their skin is managed by a consultant with both high-volume NHS experience and a strong academic background.

the Thomas Clinic prioritises treatments that are clinically proven and safe. Early professional intervention can significantly reduce acne severity and the likelihood of permanent scarring.

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Advice for Managing Acne at Home

Medical treatment works best when combined with consistent, gentle skincare and sensible lifestyle choices. NHS and independent dermatology guidance emphasise that simple, regular routines are more effective than harsh scrubbing or over-washing.

Everyday Skincare Tips

Gentle Cleansing 

Use a mild, pH-balanced, non-comedogenic cleanser twice daily. Avoid abrasive scrubs, cleansing brushes and very hot water, which can irritate acne-prone skin.

The ideal acne cleanser removes excess oil, dirt, and impurities without stripping the skin.

Options include:

Gentle, non-comedogenic cleansers: These are formulated not to block pores.
Foaming or gel-based cleansers: These can suit oilier skin types and help to remove excess oil without leaving residue.
Salicylic acid cleansers: These gently exfoliate within the pores and can help to reduce blackheads and breakouts.

Examples of widely used cleansers include: CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser, Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, and Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser.

Moisturise & Protect

Even oily or acne-prone skin needs hydration. Using the right moisturiser and sunscreen can reduce irritation from treatments and help limit pigmentation after spots.

Selecting a moisturiser:

Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic products that hydrate without clogging pores:

Oil-free moisturisers: These are lightweight formulas that will not leave skin feeling greasy.
Gel-based moisturisers: These are usually non-comedogenic and give hydration without adding extra oil.
Non-irritating formulas: Avoid heavily fragranced products or those containing high levels of alcohol, which may aggravate sensitive skin.

Commonly used options include: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, CeraVe PM Facial Moisturising Lotion, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturiser, Clinique Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly.

Selecting a sunscreen:

Daily sun protection is especially important when you are using treatments such as retinoids or benzoyl peroxide, which can increase sun sensitivity.

Choose oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreens that are less likely to block pores.
Opt for broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to protect against UVA and UVB.
A matte finish can help to reduce shine in oily or acne-prone skin.

Examples include: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin SPF 60, and Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 55.

General Tips for Acne-Prone Skin

Do not over-wash; cleansing morning and night is usually enough.
Use lukewarm water rather than very hot or very cold water.
Avoid scrubbing; use your fingertips or a soft cloth.
Layer products in this order: cleanser, treatment, moisturiser, then sunscreen in the daytime.
Try not to squeeze or pick spots, as this increases inflammation, scarring and pigmentation.

If you are unsure which products are right for you, your dermatologist or pharmacist can help you choose options that complement your prescribed treatment. All treatment plans are discussed in detail during consultation at the Thomas Clinic.

FAQs About Acne Treatment

How long does acne treatment take to show results? 

Topical treatments (such as benzoyl peroxide and retinoids) typically show initial improvement within 4-6 weeks, with optimal results visible after 8–12 weeks. Oral treatments (including antibiotics and hormonal medication) generally produce noticeable changes within 2–3 months. Consistency and patience are key to successful outcomes.

Are acne treatments suitable for sensitive skin? 

Yes. Gentle yet effective treatments suitable for sensitive skin include azelaic acid, niacinamide, and low-strength retinoids. At the Thomas Clinic, dermatologists carefully assess your skin to recommend treatments specifically tailored to minimise irritation and maximise results.

Will acne treatments stop acne permanently? 

Acne treatments significantly reduce symptoms and often achieve long-term remission; however, acne can recur, especially due to ongoing hormonal or lifestyle factors. Continued maintenance treatments and consistent skincare help sustain clear skin. Severe acne treated with isotretinoin may offer permanent clearance for many patients.

What should I expect during my first acne consultation? 

At your initial consultation at the Thomas Clinic, you’ll receive a comprehensive skin assessment and discuss your medical history, lifestyle factors, and specific skin concerns. Your dermatologist will then create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your unique needs, clearly explaining all available options.

Can acne treatments help with scars and pigmentation? 

Yes. Treatments such as chemical peels, microneedling, and laser therapies effectively address active acne and significantly improve skin texture, tone, and post-acne marks. Your dermatologist customises treatment plans to manage active acne while simultaneously targeting existing scarring and pigmentation concerns.

Speak to Our Expert Acne Dermatologist in London Today

Booking an acne consultation at the Thomas Clinic is straightforward, discreet and patient-focused. You can self-refer by phone, email or through our online booking system; no GP referral is required, and appointments are usually available promptly.

During your visit, you can expect:

A confidential discussion of your symptoms and how acne is affecting you.
A thorough skin assessment by our experienced consultant dermatologist, Dr Thomas.
Clear, personalised guidance and a treatment plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle.

Many patients tell us their only regret is not seeking help sooner. Taking professional advice can bring not only clearer skin but also a renewed sense of confidence and control.

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