What should you expect during an acne consultation with a dermatologist?

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

By the time that you see a dermatologist, it is likely that you will have already tried a number of different treatments. You may already have lived with acne for many years and it may have had a great impact upon your confidence and mood over that period.

A dermatologist will begin by taking the time to understand your concerns and the goals that you have for treatment. Generally they will begin by asking you about your skin, your general health and any previous treatments that you have used. It's helpful to prepare for your consultation in advance.

Next they will carefully examine your skin to determine the type and severity of acne that you have and to look for any other conditions that might be present.

According to the type and severity of your acne, they will discuss the treatment options with you. It may be that there is more than one possible treatment that is suitable for you and part of the consultation will be spent in weighing up the advantages and disadvantages of these different options, answering any questions that you might have and helping you to decide on a treatment plan.

Related Articles

• How should you prepare for an acne consultation with a dermatologist?
• How do you know what the right treatment is for your acne?
• How is acne classified?

About Dr Magnus Lynch

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital and is focused on Mohs micrographic surgery and the treatment of complex skin cancers. My private practice additionally focuses on laser treatments, regenerative dermatology, rosacea, acne, pigmentation and scarring. I have particular expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, including minimally-invasive techniques, Mohs micrographic surgery, and facial reconstructive surgery. 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

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.