At our CQC-registered dermatology clinic, our consultant dermatologist-led team and experienced therapists assess acne and build plans that combine medical treatment, in-clinic treatments and support for scarring. Patients travel to us from across Kent, including Canterbury, Whitstable, Herne Bay, Faversham, Maidstone, Ashford, Folkestone and Thanet. Our aim is to understand what is driving your breakouts and recommend a plan that suits your skin and your goals.
About the Condition
Acne is a common skin condition that develops when pores become blocked with oil and dead skin cells, allowing bacteria to multiply and cause inflammation. It most often affects the face, chest and back and can continue well into adult life, particularly for women, where hormones can play a part.
Common features of acne include:
- Blackheads, whiteheads and small red bumps
- Painful, deeper lumps such as nodules or cysts under the skin
- Breakouts that flare with your cycle, stress or certain products
- Acne affecting the chest and back as well as the face
- Marks, redness or pitted scars left after spots have healed
Acne can be triggered or worsened by hormonal changes, stress, some skincare or make-up products and certain medications.
Because rosacea and other skin conditions can look similar to acne, an accurate diagnosis is important, and our page on rosacea explains the difference. It also matters because deeper inflammatory acne can leave pitted or discoloured scarring, so early assessment can help reduce the chance of lasting marks.
How We Treat It
Treatment depends on the type and severity of your acne, and the first step is a medical dermatology assessment. We will look at your skin, ask about your history and any previous treatments, discuss possible triggers and then build a plan that may combine medical treatment with in-clinic treatments.
Medically, this can include prescription-strength topical treatment and, where needed, oral treatment, supervised by our medical dermatology team. In the clinic, our therapists offer medical skin peels and microdermabrasion to help clear congestion and even out tone, and Dermalux LED light therapy to support the management of inflammatory acne. For pitted scarring, microneedling and laser resurfacing stimulate collagen to soften the appearance of scars, and we can also discuss options for lingering marks and hyperpigmentation.
Most plans need at least 8 to 12 weeks before a meaningful improvement is visible, because skin takes time to renew. Individual results vary, and we will review your progress and adjust your plan as we go.
When to See a Specialist
If over-the-counter products have not helped after a few months, if your acne is painful, or if it is leaving marks or affecting your confidence, that is the time to book. Earlier treatment means less risk of lasting scarring.
Book sooner if you have deep, painful cysts or nodules, or acne that is spreading across the chest and back. Please seek prompt medical advice if a sudden, severe breakout comes with a fever or you feel generally unwell, or if there are signs of infection such as spreading redness, heat or swelling. Call us if you need a swift appointment.
Further reading: NHS – Acne · DermNet – Acne · British Association of Dermatologists
Frequently Asked Questions
Can adult acne be treated?
Yes. Acne is not only a teenage condition, and adult acne, particularly in women where hormones often play a role, can respond well to an accurate diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan.
Will my acne scars ever go completely?
This varies between individuals. Treating active acne early reduces the chance of new scarring, and treatments such as microneedling and laser resurfacing can improve the appearance of existing scars, though complete removal is not always possible.
Do I need a GP referral?
No, you can book directly with Kent Skin & Laser Clinic as a self-funded patient. Some private medical insurers may require a referral, so it is worth checking your policy if you plan to claim.
What is the difference between acne and rosacea?
Rosacea can cause spots that look similar to acne, but it is a different condition that tends to affect different age groups and needs a different treatment approach, which is why accurate diagnosis matters.
How soon will I see an improvement?
Most treatment plans need at least 8 to 12 weeks before a meaningful improvement is visible, since skin naturally takes time to renew and respond to treatment.
Can you treat acne on the chest and back?
Yes. Acne on the chest and back is assessed in the same way as facial acne, and your treatment plan will be tailored to the areas affected.
Get your concern assessed
First step
Specialty Doctor £250, Consultant Dermatologist £300
Appointment
30 minutes
Availability
Usually within 1 to 2 weeks
Treatments for acne
Related conditions
