Are different types of acne treated differently?

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

The approach to acne treatment differs greatly according to the severity of acne, the types of acne lesions that are present and whether which treatments you have had for your acne in the past.

You can think of the treatments for acne as a ladder - starting with non prescription over the counter treatments, moving through prescription topical treatments and then on to first line oral treatments such as antibiotics and the oral contraceptive pill (for women). Where these are not effective next steps include spironolactone (for women) or isotretinoin (roaccutane).

Mild acne: This can often be treated effectively either with over the counter products or with topical acne treatments. Comedomal acne (dominated by whiteheads and blackheads) is more likely to respond to topical retinoids and retinol.

Moderate acne: This rarely will respond to over the counter products and often requires systemic (e.g. tablet) treatments.

Hormonal acne: Hormonal acne fluctuates along with the menstrual cycle. There is a prediliction for the lower face and jawline. Treatment options include the combined oral contraceptive pill - particularly brands which contain an anti-androgen such as Yasmin or spironolactone.

Severe acne: With severe acne, particularly where there are nodules or cysts it is important to rapidly find an effective treatment to minimize scarring - this usually requires a prescription tablet treatment.

Related Articles

• What are the different types of acne lesions?
• How is acne classified?
• How do you know what the right treatment is for your acne?
• What treatments are effective for hormonal acne?

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.