What is acne?
Acne is a skin condition caused by blocked hair follicles. Hormones, genetics, and bacteria all play a role. It commonly affects the face, back, chest, and shoulders. Severity ranges from mild (whiteheads, blackheads) to severe (cysts, nodules, scarring).
Common symptoms
- Whiteheads and blackheads
- Red, inflamed pimples
- Larger, painful lumps under the skin (cysts or nodules)
- Oily skin
- Scarring or dark pigmentation where spots have healed
When to see a doctor
Book a GP if over-the-counter treatments haven't worked after 6-8 weeks, your acne is persistent or worsening, you're getting scarring, or it's affecting your wellbeing. Adult-onset acne in women is also worth assessing as it can sometimes indicate a hormonal cause.
Seek urgent help if
- Sudden severe nodular or cystic acne
- Acne with unusual hair growth, irregular periods, or weight changes (assess for PCOS or other hormonal cause)
- Severe acne not responding to standard treatments (may need isotretinoin via dermatology)
How a private GP can help
A consultation typically covers:
- Severity assessment (mild, moderate, severe)
- A staged treatment plan based on NICE guidance
- Topical treatments (retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, topical antibiotics, often in combination)
- Oral antibiotics where appropriate (lymecycline, doxycycline, usually 3-6 months)
- For women, discussion of combined hormonal contraception if suitable
- Skincare and lifestyle advice
- Referral to dermatology for severe or treatment-resistant acne
What we don't do
- Isotretinoin (Roaccutane) prescribing , requires dermatology specialist due to side effect profile
- Cosmetic acne scar treatment (chemical peels, laser, microneedling)
What it costs
An online consultation about acne starts at £79 for a 20-minute video appointment. In-pharmacy consultations are £129 and home visits are £189. Your consultation includes one private prescription if appropriate, and a sick note for work if needed. You pay the pharmacy separately for any medication.
See the full pricing breakdown for what's included with each appointment type.