Medically reviewed by
Medically reviewed by
Dr Amanda Northridge
GP & Medical Reviewer·MBBS·GMC 2847829
Speak to a GP today about acne — in clinic or by video within 90 minutes. Creams or tablets arranged with your pharmacy where appropriate.
GP appointments from £125 — see full pricing
If any of these apply, please go straight to the service listed. FastTrack is for non-emergency private GP care only.
Clear photos plus a video call is enough for most acne. We can arrange creams or tablets the same day.
For severe cystic acne, or to discuss options like a dermatology referral for isotretinoin — same-day appointments in Manchester.
A qualified GP looks at your skin and asks about your routine, history and any past treatments. Video works well — photos help.
Treatment depends on whether your acne is mild, moderate or severe — and whether it's mostly blackheads, inflamed spots, or deep cysts.
Topical treatments, oral antibiotics, hormonal options or a dermatology referral — whichever fits. Treatment arranged with your pharmacy the same day.
Acne is not caused by poor hygiene. It develops due to a combination of factors including excess oil production, blocked hair follicles, the skin bacterium Cutibacterium acnes and inflammation. Hormones also play a significant role, which is why acne is particularly common during the teenage years and at times of hormonal change. Many people with acne have excellent skincare habits, and washing the skin more frequently will not prevent acne. In fact, excessive washing or scrubbing can irritate the skin and sometimes make acne worse. Things that can trigger or worsen it:
Most acne treatments take 6–8 weeks to work — don't give up early, but do come back if you're not seeing improvement or things are getting worse.
A few skin conditions can look like acne. A GP can tell the difference quickly and start the right treatment.
Acne treatment takes time to work, and most people will not see significant improvement for at least 6–8 weeks. A typical course of treatment lasts around 3–6 months, although some people may need treatment for longer depending on the severity of their acne and how well it responds. Even when your skin starts to improve, it is important to continue treatment as advised to reduce the risk of acne returning. Your clinician will review your progress and discuss whether treatment should be continued, adjusted, or stopped.
Yes. Your GP reviews what you've already tried, looks at the affected skin, and either arranges the next step (a stronger topical treatment, oral antibiotics for inflammatory acne, or hormonal options where appropriate) or refers you to a dermatologist if the picture suggests you need specialist input.
The consultation is £125. Treatment is provided on a private basis and dispensed at your nominated pharmacy — pharmacy prices vary, and your GP can flag cheaper alternatives at the appointment. Specialist dermatology referral is separate; we'll set expectations on cost and timeline before referring.
Yes. If your GP starts a topical treatment, antibiotic or hormonal option, the treatment is arranged with your pharmacy after the consultation. Some specialist treatments need pre-treatment monitoring (blood tests, pregnancy planning) and can't start same-day — your GP will explain the path.
Most acne treatments take 8–12 weeks of consistent use to show clear improvement, with topical treatments often making the skin look worse for the first 2–4 weeks before settling. Your GP will plan a review at the right point so you're not stuck on something that isn't working.
Severe acne, scarring acne, or acne that hasn't responded to two or more first-line treatments usually warrants dermatology referral — especially for treatments that need consultant oversight. Your GP arranges the referral at the appointment when the criteria are met.
Video or in-clinic, 15 minutes. Your GP takes a focused history, examines you, and explains what they think is going on.
Blood tests, swabs, urine samples or imaging — your GP arranges what fits and shares the timeline at the appointment.
Treatment arranged with your pharmacy after the call. Sick notes issued at the visit. Specialist referral letters written the same day when needed.
Sources: NHS Acne · NICE CKS Acne vulgaris