When do I need tablet treatments for my acne?

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

The different treatments for acne can be thought of as a ladder starting with over the counter products, moving up through prescription topical treatments (creams, ointments and lotions) and then on to tablet treatments. Generally as this ladder is ascended the treatments are more effective, however there can be a greater potential for side effects.

In most cases, patients will have tried over the counter and prescription topical (creams, ointments and lotions) treatments prior to moving on to tablet treatments. However, there are are certain scenarios where is is reasonable to move on to tablet treatments sooner

Where acne is moderate or severe, particularly where there is evidence of scarring, it is unlikely that topical treatments will prove effective and important to find an effective treatment rapidly to minimize the permanent consequences of scarring.

The combined oral contraceptive pill (OCP) can be an effective treatment for acne in women, particularly for hormonal acne. Where women are considering the OCP for contraception the presence of acne can be another reason to start since certain brands of the OCP, such as Yasmin, have additional activity in blocking the action of the male sex hormone testosterone and can be particularly effective for acne.

Related Articles

• How are antibiotics used to treat acne?
• When should I consider isotretinoin (Roaccutane) for my acne?
• What treatments are effective for hormonal acne?
• What topical treatments are available for 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.