Acne Treatment

Acne is a multifactorial skin condition involving excess sebum production, blocked pores, bacterial overgrowth (particularly Cutibacterium acnes), and inflammation. It ranges from mild blackheads and whiteheads to severe, painful cystic acne and can lead to permanent scarring if left untreated. Acne affects all ages, not just teenagers, and can have a significant emotional impact.

Causes of Acne?

• • Hormonal fluctuations (e.g. puberty, PCOS, stress)
  • Excess oil (sebum) production
  • Dead skin cell buildup blocking pores
  • Bacterial activity
  • Genetics
  • Lifestyle factors: poor skincare habits, diet, lack of sleep, and emotional stress

Treatment Options:

In-Clinic Treatments:

• Microneedling: Particularly effective for acne scarring; stimulates collagen production and skin renewal.
• Microneedling with Exosomes: Enhances tissue repair and reduces post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and redness.
• Polynucleotides: Support healing in active or post-acne skin and reduce redness and textural irregularity.
• Chemical Peels (Salicylic, Mandelic, Glycolic): Help unclog pores, reduce bacteria, and improve tone. Best done as a course.

Medical-Grade Skincare:

• Topical Retinoids : Regulate cell turnover, prevent pore clogging, and reduce inflammation.
• Acid Cleansers or Serums: Penetrates into pores to clear oil and debris.
• Azelaic Acid: Anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory, especially helpful for red or reactive acne.
• SPF 50+ (non-comedogenic): Essential to protect healing skin and prevent pigmentation.

The treatments listed above are cosmetic and aimed at improving the appearance of acne-prone skin and post-acne scarring. Moderate to severe or persistent acne may require medical treatment, including oral or topical prescription medications. We recommend consulting your GP or dermatologist for comprehensive acne management.

At Harley Street Dermal, we take a cosmetic, skin-first approach to acne. Our focus is on improving the appearance of acne-prone skin, calming inflammation, refining texture, and reducing post-acne marks through evidence-based treatments and professional skincare.

Every plan is tailored to your skin needs and may include in-clinic treatments and medical-grade products to support clearer, smoother skin over time.