The majority of those affected by acne, will experience spots, oily skin and redness, particularly to the face. However, some people will also have back acne, and up to 15% of people will experience chest acne.

Teenagers are the group most affected by the condition, however it is the case that some people experience adult acne.

The types of acne people experience consist of a combination of blackheads, whiteheads and small red bumps called papules, or white tipped spots called pustules. Some people also experience large hard lumps called nodules, as well as cysts which have the appearance of boils and are the most likely to cause acne scarring.

In the most part acne is caused by changing hormone levels during puberty, the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. During these times our bodies may produce larger amounts of oil than usual, causing blocked pores which creates inflammation, this can then also become infected.

Any other situation that may cause clogged pores such as heavy makeup, sweating or tight clothing can also exacerbate the condition.

There are a wide range of options available for treating the condition, from topical creams and lotions to specific antibiotics for acne and combined treatments. It is also worth trying to avoid any triggers that exacerbate your acne, giving your skin the time to breathe and respond to acne treatment.

We can prescribe the use of a topical lotion such as Epiduo or a daily antibiotic combined with a gel or cream such as Doxycycline and Adapalene gel, women can also be prescribed the contraceptive pill Co-cyprindiol sometimes known by the brand name ‘Dianette’ in conjunction with a cream. Depending on the patient and condition these treatments could help to manage your acne.

Request a treatment, complete your consultation questionnaire and upload two images of your acne. Using this information, we will be able to assess which acne treatment is the most suitable and prescribe this for you. If approved, your treatment can either be collected or delivered.

Around 95% of those aged 11 to 35 will be affected by acne to some extent, while for most people the condition clears up by their mid-20s, 3% of people over 35 will experience adult acne. If there is a family history of acne, then you are also more likely to be affected by the condition.

Alongside prescribed acne treatment, avoiding situations that will worsen your acne can help to manage the condition and prevent further flare ups.

Aside from hormonal acne there are a variety of situations that can trigger the condition and can make acne worse. Wearing lots of makeup, heavy sweating or a humid environment can block pores. Touching your skin with your hands, picking or squeezing spots can spread germs across your face as well as increase inflammation.

While there are a range of acne prescription treatments available, it is the case that different combinations may work for different people. It might be that your acne clears up with daily application of a gel such as Adapalene or Benzoyl Peroxide, or it might be that you are recommended to combine this with an antibiotic such as Lymecycline.

Women may also be offered a combination of Co-cyprindiol contraceptive pill alongside a topical lotion.

A variation of the combined contraceptive pill, Co-cyprindiol (widely known as the branded Dianette or Clairette) is sometimes prescribed to women whose acne is related to hormonal changes. This can be particularly beneficial to those women who experience flare ups around with their periods or hormonal conditions.

We may prescribe Co-cyprindiol in combination with Adapalene Gel, Azelaic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide Gel, Epiduo or Duac to try and help manage your acne.