How do you know what the right treatment is for your acne?

By Dr Magnus Lynch
MA(Cantab) DPhil(Oxon) MRCS FRCP
Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatological Surgeon

Acne treatments can broadly be classified into over the counter topical products, prescription topical treatments, and tablet (systemic) treatments. The choice of treatment is determined by consideration of the following factors:

• The types of acne lesions that are present: blackheads, whiteheads, papules (red spots), pustules (pus-filled spots) and nodules (red lumps) - see our previous post on the types of acne lesions.
• The severity of the acne and whether there is scarring.
• Previous treatments that you have tried for your acne.
• Whether hormonal imbalance is contributing to your acne, which may indicate a need for hormonal acne treatments.
• Other health issues that you may have and whether you are planning pregnancy in the near future.
• Any concerns that you might have regarding side effects of treatment.

If you have mild acne it is advisable to start with over the counter and prescription topical treatments before moving on to prescription tablet treatments where these do not prove effective or if you suffer from moderate or severe acne, particularly where there is scarring.

Related Articles

• How does the severity of your acne determine what treatment is suitable?
• Are different types of acne treated differently?
• What topical treatments are available for acne?
• When do I need tablet treatments for my acne?

About Dr Magnus Lynch

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. I am highly experienced in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, Mohs micrographic surgery, facial reconstructive surgery, laser treatments, regenerative dermatology, acne, rosacea and acne scarring. Since 2019, I have been passionate about sharing information online about dermatology and skin care. I studied at the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford, and completed my dermatology training and Mohs fellowship at the prestigious St John’s Institute of Dermatology. I graduated from medical school in 2003 and have worked exclusively in Dermatology since 2012.

I lead a research team at King’s College London investigating the molecular biology of skin cancer and skin cancer diagnostics, and I constantly aim to translate the latest findings into better patient care. You can learn more about my Research.

In recent years I have been involved in Media Appearances, including the Channel 5 series 'Skin A&E', where I perform skin surgeries and treat various skin conditions. Filming for the next series has recently completed and the series will be released later in 2025.

How I can help

My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital. I consult with private patients at several well-appointed and conveniently located sites across central London:

• London Bridge Hospital: Conveniently situated within The Shard, next to London Bridge station.
• Skin55 Ltd: Located at 55 Harley Street, this beautiful Edwardian building houses one of the largest private dermatology facilities in the UK with a comprehensive laser suite.
• OneWelbeck: Located close to Bond Street underground station. Mohs surgery, lasers, and other skin surgeries are performed in the state-of-the-art surgical suite here.

A new consultation is £250, a follow up consultation is £220. For more information on fees, please visit Prices.