Medically reviewed by Dr Tapan Patel
Last reviewed: 22nd February 2026
How to get rid of acne?
The appearance of acne can have a huge impact, but the effects of acne go beyond your skin, often affecting self-esteem and self-confidence. Managing acne and acne formation can be tough, with many turning to acne treatment to tackle the condition in the form of topical treatments or laser resurfacing to treat post acne scarring.
When visiting your GP, you may receive prescription acne treatments with acne medication consisting of topical retinoids, topical treatments, azelaid acid, oral antibiotics, or if you are a woman, the combined oral contraceptive pill. And in some cases, often if prescription medications aren’t working, your GP may refer you to an acne clinic or dermatologist.
Here at our award-winning London clinic, our skin specialists create tailored treatment plans using either AviClear, Obagi or other types of skincare. We also provide aftercare to ensure optimal results and long-term skin health.
Treatment of acne
- Antibacterial soaps
- Retinoid cream - Retinoic acid
- Azelaic acid cream
- Hydroxy acids
- Salicylic acid
- Benzoyl Peroxide
- Laser treatment
However there are clinical studies on the potential side effects of some treatments for acne. Reports of people experiencing common side effects such as; dry skin, minor skin irritation and stinging sensation. If this occurs and causes concern after weeks of treatment, please speak with your GP for a counter product.
Management of acne
With a consistent skin care routine whether that's with simple soap and water, or with suggested treatments below, the turnover of skin cells thereby unclogging of pores. Maintaining acne under control involves a consistent skincare routine and, in some cases, hormonal treatments to manage underlying causes such as hormone imbalances, which can exacerbate acne. Our practitioners emphasise the importance of not picking or popping acne spots to avoid scarring and worsening the condition.
At our clinic, we only treat adult acne. So we know the condition and available treatments very well. When looking at how to get rid of adult acne, there isn’t always one single solution. But either AviClear, Obagi or skincare could be the right acne treatment for you. We understand that with a whole host of acne treatments out there, it can be overwhelming. But during your consultation, our London skin specialists will find the perfect fit for you.
Types of Acne and Their Characteristics
- Back Acne: Often a result of high oil production and sweat, back acne can be challenging due to its location, making it harder to treat than facial acne.
- Forehead Acne: This type is commonly linked to excess oil production and the clogging of pores by dead skin cells and hair products.
- Cystic Acne: A severe form of acne that occurs deep within the skin, often resulting in painful, pus-filled cysts. It is commonly caused by hormonal fluctuations and can lead to permanent scarring if not treated properly.
- Acne Rosacea: A chronic skin condition characterised by redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like pimples, predominantly affecting the facial area.
Acne Clinic London
At our acne clinic in London, we offer bespoke treatment plans designed to address everything from active acne vulgaris to post-acne scarring. Led by experts in medical dermatology, we treat a wide range of skin challenges, from blocked pores and inflammation to reduced skin elasticity caused by long-term breakouts. Our focus is on enhancing overall skin quality while restoring and inspiring skin confidence. Whether you are managing teenage skin or adult acne, our treatments are supported by advanced skin rejuvenation techniques and tailored skin routine guidance, ensuring your results are both transformative and long-lasting.
Our acne treatments
AviClear - the acne treatment that lasts
As the first and only UK clinic to use AviClear, we use this FDA-cleared energy device to treat mild, moderate and severe acne. This multi award-winning device treats acne at the source, clearing skin by targeting and suppressing sebaceous glands. Our skin specialists are highly trained to treat acne with AviClear, creating never-seen-before results.
Treatment can target symptoms of acne below the surface of the skin that treatments like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid can't quite target.
Sciton BBL
Sciton BBL is an advanced light-based treatment that can support the management of active acne by targeting acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation in the skin. Using controlled pulses of light energy, it helps to calm breakouts while improving overall skin clarity and tone. BBL can be used alongside other treatments as part of a personalised acne management plan.
Obagi acne treatment
With a skincare line created for acne, Obagi is a highly effective treatment. A-List-celebrity-approved, Obagi has been providing effective skincare for over 35 years.
Our skin specialists use the Obagi Nu-Derm System a prescription-strength skincare system, to transform the skin. This advanced technology works wonders for the skin as it transforms the skin at a cellular level. After the treatment, your skin is able to better hold moisture in and your skin is left looking refreshed. You’ll leave our clinic glowing, both inside and out.
Skincare for acne
When it comes to skincare for acne, our specialists are some of the best around. With extensive skincare ranges, we’ll create the perfect skincare plan for you.
It’s so important to get your skincare right. So our skincare specialists will recommend the best products and treatments, tailored to your skin’s unique needs, during your consultation.
What is the best acne treatment for me?
With many different variations of acne, acne treatments should be made to fit. If prescription medications from your GP aren’t for you, you may choose to visit our London clinic. During your consultation, our skin specialists will find the best acne treatment for you. We’ll then book you in for your acne treatment to begin your skin transformation.
We are committed to providing effective solutions for all types of acne, catering to both teenage acne and adult-onset acne. Our range of treatments and personalised care ensures that each patient receives the most suitable approach for their skin type and acne severity. At PHI London, we understand that finding the right treatment can be overwhelming. Our consultations aim to demystify the process, guiding you through the best options to achieve clear, healthy skin. Whether you're dealing with active acne, acne scarring, or looking for preventive measures, our clinic offers innovative solutions tailored to your unique needs.
London's trusted acne specialist team
Safe and effective treatment
Your safety is our priority at PHI Clinic. To ensure maximum standards of patient care, acne treatments are only ever carried out by our experienced, highly qualified staff.
All our patients have a thorough consultation before having acne treatment, and treatment is always carried out on a separate day. We believe it is essential for patients to be able to think before deciding whether to go ahead with their bespoke treatment plan
Acne treatment frequently asked questions
People with acne can begin at any age. But it is most commonly associated with changes in hormone levels during puberty. Acne can also be hereditary and even appear during adult life.
Contrary to popular belief, there’s no scientific evidence to suggest that diet, poor hygiene, or sexual activity contribute to the development of acne.
Here are the six types of spots caused by acne:
- Blackheads are small bumps that can appear on the skin in a black or yellowish colour. There’s a misconception that these are caused by dirt, but they’re actually caused by the natural colour produced by the hair follicle lining.
- Whiteheads are similar to blackheads in appearance. But when squeezed, they don’t empty.
- Papules are small red lumps that may be sore to touch.
- Pustules are like papules but, due to a buildup of pus, they have a white tip in the centre.
- Nodules are hard lumps that develop beneath the skin’s surface.
- Cysts are the most severe type of acne and carry the greatest risk of permanent scarring. They appear as large, pus-filled lumps similar to boils.
Understanding the different types of acne can help you find the best acne treatment for you.
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Fungal acne can cause itchy and inflamed skin, appearing when yeast builds up in your hair follicles.
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Cystic acne is a severe type of acne, causing pus-filled pimples and nodules, that can lead to scarring
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Hormonal acne affects adults who have an overproduction of the sebum, which clogs their pores. This can be caused by hormonal changes in the body.
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Nodular acne is a severe form of acne that causes pimples on the surface of your skin and tender lumps under your skin.
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In some cases but not all, acne disappears by the mid-20s. But in some cases, the skin condition can persist into adult life.
Harley Street's acne specialists provide diverse treatments for acne scars, including laser acne treatment and targeted approaches for ice pick scars. Through the expertise of our dermatologists and the creation of personalised treatment plans, we tackle the chronic skin condition of acne scarring, fostering collagen production for healthier skin and a more even skin tone.
Acne Awareness Month is in June. It's really important to raise awareness about the causes and treatment options for acne. This common skin condition affects millions of people in the UK. By staying informed, individuals can better understand acne and explore effective treatments to address this widespread concern.
Our experienced acne dermatologists and medical practitioners at Harley Street specialise in treating various acne symptoms, including acne rosacea and chest acne. Prioritising decongested and hydrated skin, our specialists address the formation of adult acne, delivering effective and expert treatments to enhance overall skin health.
Pregnant women should not receive laser treatment with AviClear and therefore should speak to their GP for an alternative method taking into consideration any risk factors to the unborn baby.
Boasting consultant dermatologists and acne specialists who are authorities in skin health, PHI Clinic on Harley Street holds a Care Quality Commission accreditation and a commitment to excellent care. Our clinic offers a broad range of effective acne treatments, from oral medications to clinic-based interventions, providing ongoing care for acne-prone skin with a comprehensive and tailored approach to complex skin conditions.
All skin types can be treated using AViClear, yes.
As this is a laser treatment, we highly suggest patients wear sun cream especially during the summer months with excessive exposure to the sun.
There may occur minor side effects which will always be discussed in depth with your skin care expert. Treatment for acne depends on the type of acne you have, which will also be assessed upon consultation.
Topical treatments (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, retinoids): These can cause skin dryness, redness, peeling, and irritation. Some people may experience increased sensitivity to sunlight, making the skin more prone to sunburn.
Oral antibiotics: Antibiotics prescribed for acne may lead to gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. They can also disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, potentially leading to secondary infections like thrush or yeast infections.
Oral treatments/contraceptives (for hormonal acne): Birth control pills may have side effects such as headache, nausea, breast tenderness, and changes in mood. They can also increase the risk of blood clots in some individuals.
Isotretinoin (Accutane): This potent medication is used for severe or persistent acne, but it has a range of potential side effects. These can include dry and peeling skin, chapped lips, dry eyes, joint and muscle pain, and an increased risk of depression and other mood changes. Isotretinoin is also linked to birth defects and must be used with extreme caution in pregnant women.
Chemical peels and laser treatments: These procedures can cause temporary redness, swelling, and skin sensitivity. In some cases, they may result in hyperpigmentation or scarring.
It's essential to work closely with a dermatologist when undergoing acne treatment to monitor for any adverse reactions and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Not everyone experiences side effects, and many can be managed or minimised with proper care and guidance from a healthcare professional.
Acne breakouts are often influenced by excess oil production, dead skin cells, and various triggers. Our expert dermatologists at Harley Street address forms of acne, from teenage acne to adult acne. With an extensive range of professional treatments and skincare products, we craft personalised acne treatment plans to combat active acne, promoting clearer skin and preventing further breakouts.
At our Harley Street clinic, a team of acne experts assess individual skin concerns and devise customised acne treatment plans. Whether dealing with congested, dehydrated, or mature skin, our specialists guide you through a broad range of treatments, ensuring the most suitable and effective solution for your unique skin condition.
Location
PHI Clinic
102 Harley Street,
London,
W1G 7JB,
United Kingdom
Tel: 02070345999
Opening Hours
Monday & Tuesday - 9:30am to 6:00pm
Wednesday & Thursday - 9:30am to 8:00pm
Friday - 9:30am to 5:00pm
Saturday - 11:30am to 12:30pm
Sunday - Closed
Opening times can change, if your appointment is outside of these times please contact the clinic for confirmation.
