Acne

7 April 2025

Acne – one of the most common skin conditions affecting both teenagers and adults. Whether mild or severe, our dermatology team is here to support you with evidence-based solutions.

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It commonly appears on the face, chest, back, and shoulders, leading to spots, blackheads, whiteheads, and sometimes painful cysts or nodules.

Types of Acne

Whiteheads – Closed, clogged pores
Blackheads – Open, clogged pores exposed to air
Papules – Small red bumps
Pustules – Pimples with pus at the tip
Nodules – Large, painful lumps beneath the skin
Cystic Acne – Deep, pus-filled lumps often resulting in scarring

Signs & Symptoms

Persistent breakouts or inflamed spots
Oily skin or excessive shine
Painful lumps under the skin
Redness and irritation
Scarring or pigmentation changes
Emotional distress or reduced confidence

Potential Causes of Acne

Acne can be triggered or worsened by a range of internal and external factors:

Hormonal fluctuations (especially during puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy)
Excess sebum (oil) production
Bacterial overgrowth (e.g., Cutibacterium acnes)
Certain medications
Stress and diet
Use of comedogenic (pore-clogging) skincare products
Genetics

Diagnosis

At Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, diagnosing acne begins with a comprehensive skin assessment by a consultant dermatologist. During your consultation, we evaluate:

Type and severity of acne (mild, moderate, or severe)
Areas of the body affected
Presence of scarring or pigmentation
Lifestyle factors such as skincare habits, stress, and diet
Medical history, including hormonal conditions or medications

In some cases, additional investigations may be recommended to identify underlying causes, such as:

Hormonal testing (especially in adult women or those with irregular cycles)
Skin swabs or cultures (if infection is suspected)
Review of current medication that may be contributing to breakouts

Following diagnosis, our team will create a tailored treatment plan designed to manage symptoms and prevent long-term skin damage.

Acne Treatment Options

We offer a comprehensive approach to acne management, tailored to your skin type, severity, and underlying causes:

Topical treatments (retinoids, antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide)
Oral medications (antibiotics, hormonal treatments, isotretinoin)
Chemical peels and microdermabrasion
Laser and light therapies for active acne and scarring
Lifestyle and skincare guidance

Your care begins with a thorough dermatological assessment to determine the best course of action.

Arranging To Visit A Private GP

If you are experiencing any acne symptoms, schedule an appointment with Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital for expert evaluation and treatment.. Make an appointment with one of our private GPs who can refer you to our specialist dermatologists. Appointments are available to everyone and can often be booked for the same day. There is no need to be registered with our The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, or live locally.

If you have insurance which covers a GP visit, we can in most cases invoice the insurer directly. Where you are paying directly, the cost for a 30 minute consultation is £100.

Any additional costs will always be discussed.

Our Resident Private GP

Dr Chamali is welcoming and highly experienced. He offers his patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on their future health.