At Kent Skin & Laser Clinic, our consultant dermatologist-led team offers personalised acne care, combining prescription treatment with in-clinic options such as peels, microdermabrasion, micro-needling, fractional laser resurfacing and LED therapy. Based in Canterbury, we welcome patients from across Kent, including Whitstable, Herne Bay, Faversham, Ashford, Folkestone, Dover, Deal and the surrounding areas.
What is Acne?
Acne develops when hair follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin cells, often with inflammation as well. It most commonly appears on the face, but the chest and back can also be affected. Hormones and genetics play a part, and acne is not caused by poor hygiene.
Acne can look very different from person to person. Common features include:
- Blackheads and whiteheads
- Red, inflamed spots and pustules
- Painful, deeper nodules or cysts
- Marks or scarring left behind
The right approach for mild breakouts is very different to what is needed for deeper, inflammatory acne, so an accurate assessment of the type and severity of your acne comes first. If over-the-counter products have not helped, or breakouts are painful or affecting your confidence, professional guidance is worth seeking.
Treatments We Offer for Acne
Your plan is built around your skin and may combine several options below.
Prescription Treatment
Depending on the type and severity of your acne, our medical team may recommend prescription treatment, including Roaccutane (Isotretinoin). This is discussed at your consultation, alongside anything you have already tried.
Medical Skin Peels
Carefully chosen peels can help to keep pores clear and improve skin texture and post-acne marks. See our medical skin peels page for more detail.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a gentle exfoliating treatment that helps to smooth skin texture and keep the skin surface clear. It is delivered by our therapist team and is often suggested alongside peels or LED therapy as part of a wider acne plan.
Fractional Laser Resurfacing
Fractional laser resurfacing treats small columns of skin to encourage renewal and collagen production, and is used to improve the texture of acne scarring. It is considered once active acne is under control, and a course of sessions is usually needed. You can read more on our laser skin resurfacing page. Individual results vary.
Micro-needling
Micro-needling is another option for improving acne scars and skin texture. Treating active acne early helps reduce the risk of new scars.
Dermalux LED Light Therapy
Medical-grade LED light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to help calm inflammation and support the skin's natural repair processes. It is often added to other acne treatments and is gentle enough for sensitive skin.
Why Choose Kent Skin & Laser Clinic?
Patients choose us because we provide:
- Consultant dermatologist-led care and an accurate assessment
- Personalised plans combining prescription care with in-clinic treatments
- Experienced therapists, many with the clinic for years
- A dermatology team on site if anything needs a medical opinion
- Online booking 24/7
Based in Canterbury, we welcome patients from across Kent, including Whitstable, Herne Bay, Faversham, Ashford, Folkestone, Dover, Deal and the surrounding areas.
What Happens at the Appointment?
Your first appointment is a 30 minute consultation and assessment. During the consultation, we will:
- Assess the type and severity of your acne
- Review your medical history and any treatments you have tried
- Agree a personalised treatment plan, which may include prescription treatment, in-clinic treatments or both
Downtime varies with the treatments chosen, and we will explain what to expect. Your progress is then reviewed over time, with your plan adjusted as your skin improves. Most patients need to allow at least 8 to 12 weeks to see meaningful improvement, and this varies with the severity of the acne and the treatment used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can adult acne be treated?
Yes. Acne is not only a teenage condition, and adult acne, particularly in women, responds well to an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan. Our team will look at what may be driving your breakouts before recommending treatment.
Will my acne scars go away with treatment?
Treating active acne early reduces the risk of new scarring, and existing scars can often be improved with treatments such as micro-needling or fractional laser resurfacing. Results vary between individuals.
Do I need a GP referral for acne treatment?
No, you can book directly with Kent Skin & Laser Clinic. Some private medical insurers may require a referral, so it is worth checking your policy if you plan to claim.
How long does acne treatment take to work?
This depends on the severity of your acne and the treatment used, but most patients need to allow at least 8 to 12 weeks to see meaningful improvement.
Can in-clinic treatments be combined with prescription medication?
Yes. Many patients benefit from combining prescription treatment with in-clinic treatments such as peels or LED therapy.
Which treatments are suitable for painful, deeper spots?
Nodules and cysts sit deep in the skin and can leave scars, so they benefit from a medical assessment rather than home treatment. Please book a consultation so we can recommend a plan suited to you, and avoid picking or squeezing them. The prescription of Isotretinoin (Roaccutane/Accutane) may be indicated in the management of cystic acne. This medication is only prescribed after careful assessment and blood tests by Dermatologists.
Book this treatment
Price
Specialty Doctor £250, Consultant Dermatologist £300
Fees
Vary by clinician and are confirmed at your consultation
Appointment
30 minutes
Downtime
Varies by treatment chosen
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