Mild to Moderate Acne Treatment
Mild to Moderate Acne Treatment
If you have spots, blackheads, whiteheads or inflamed skin caused by mild to moderate acne, our pharmacist may be able to help through our NHS Pharmacy First prescribing service.
Acne is a very common skin condition that can affect the face, chest and back. Our pharmacist can assess your skin, discuss how acne is affecting you and, where clinically appropriate, provide treatment without you needing to see your GP first.
What is acne?
Acne is a common skin condition that causes spots and oily skin. The skin may also feel hot, tender or painful.
It develops when hair follicles in the skin become blocked. Changes in hormone levels can cause glands next to the hair follicles to produce more oil, while changes to the lining of the follicles can cause pores to become blocked.
Acne is particularly common in teenagers and young adults, although it can affect people of any age.
You can find more information about the condition on the NHS acne information page.
What does mild to moderate acne look like?
Acne can cause several different types of spots. Symptoms of mild to moderate acne can include:
- Blackheads
- Whiteheads
- Small red or tender bumps
- Spots containing pus
- Oily skin
- Redness or inflammation around spots
- Spots affecting the face, chest or back
The type and number of spots can help determine the severity of acne and which treatment may be most appropriate.
NHS Pharmacy First Acne Service
Our NHS Pharmacy First prescribing service provides eligible patients with convenient access to assessment and treatment for mild to moderate acne.
During your consultation, the pharmacist will ask about your symptoms, how long you have had acne, any treatments you have already tried, your medical history and any medicines you are currently taking.
The pharmacist will assess your skin and determine the severity and type of acne you are experiencing. They will also check for any symptoms that may mean you need further medical assessment.
Where clinically appropriate, acne treatment may be prescribed directly through the pharmacy. If your acne is more severe or requires further investigation, our pharmacist will explain the most appropriate next steps.
You can find out more about NHS Pharmacy First.
What causes acne?
Acne is commonly associated with changes in hormone levels, which is why it frequently develops around puberty. However, adults can also develop acne.
Hormonal changes can cause the skin to produce more oil. This excess oil, together with dead skin cells, can block hair follicles and contribute to the development of spots.
Acne is not caused by poor personal hygiene. Washing your face excessively or scrubbing the skin can irritate it and may make your symptoms worse.
Get help in 4 easy steps
1. Contact our pharmacy
Book an appointment if you have mild to moderate acne and would like professional advice and treatment.
2. Speak to our pharmacist
Our pharmacist will discuss your acne, how long you have had it, any treatments you have previously tried and your medical history.
3. Skin assessment
The pharmacist will assess the type and severity of your acne and check whether treatment through the NHS prescribing service is appropriate.
4. Advice and treatment
We will explain the most appropriate way to manage your acne. Where clinically appropriate, treatment may be prescribed directly through the pharmacy.
How is mild to moderate acne treated?
There are several treatments available for acne. The most appropriate option will depend on the type and severity of your acne, your medical history and any treatments you have already tried.
Treatments can include medicines applied directly to the skin, such as creams or gels. Depending on your symptoms and individual circumstances, other prescription treatments may also be considered.
Our pharmacist will explain how to use any treatment correctly and how long it may take before you begin to notice an improvement.
How long does acne treatment take to work?
Acne treatments do not usually work immediately. It can take several weeks before you begin to notice an improvement in your skin.
It is important to use your treatment consistently and exactly as directed, even if you do not see an immediate difference.
Some treatments can initially cause dryness, irritation or redness. Our pharmacist will explain what to expect and how to use your treatment safely.
How can I look after acne-prone skin?
Alongside appropriate treatment, looking after your skin can help reduce irritation and support your acne treatment.
- Wash affected areas no more than twice a day
- Use lukewarm water and a mild cleanser
- Avoid scrubbing or aggressively exfoliating your skin
- Do not squeeze or pick spots
- Choose skincare and cosmetic products labelled as non-comedogenic where possible
- Remove make-up before going to bed
- Wash your hair regularly if it becomes oily and try to keep hair away from your face
Squeezing or picking spots can increase inflammation and may increase the risk of permanent scarring.
For further advice about managing acne, visit the NHS guide to acne.
Can diet cause acne?
There is not enough evidence to recommend a specific acne diet for everyone. Acne is primarily associated with changes within the skin and hormone levels rather than simply being caused by eating particular foods.
A healthy, balanced diet is recommended for your general health. If you notice that a particular food consistently appears to affect your skin, you can discuss this with a healthcare professional.
Should I squeeze acne spots?
No. Try to avoid squeezing, picking or scratching spots.
Doing so can damage the skin, increase inflammation and increase the risk of acne scarring. Allow treatments time to work and follow the skincare advice provided by your pharmacist.
When should I see my GP?
Some cases of acne require further assessment or treatment from a GP or dermatologist.
You may need further medical assessment if:
- Your acne is severe
- You develop painful nodules or cysts
- Your acne is causing scarring
- Your acne is not responding to appropriate treatment
- Your symptoms do not appear to be caused by acne
- Your acne is significantly affecting your wellbeing
Our pharmacist will advise you if your acne is not suitable for treatment through the pharmacy service.
Can acne cause scarring?
Acne can sometimes cause permanent scarring, particularly when more severe spots such as nodules or cysts develop.
Picking or squeezing spots can also increase the risk of scarring. Getting appropriate treatment and avoiding picking the skin can help reduce this risk.
If you are developing acne scars, speak to your GP as you may need additional treatment or referral to a dermatologist.
Does acne affect mental wellbeing?
Acne can affect confidence and emotional wellbeing as well as the skin. If acne is making you feel very low, anxious or is having a significant impact on your everyday life, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional.
Our pharmacist can discuss your concerns during your consultation and advise you if further support would be appropriate.
Do I need to see my GP first?
No. If you are eligible and our pharmacy provides the NHS mild to moderate acne prescribing service, you can contact us directly for an assessment.
Our pharmacist will assess your acne and determine whether treatment through the pharmacy is appropriate or whether you would benefit from further assessment by your GP or another healthcare professional.
Convenient NHS acne treatment from your local pharmacy
Getting professional advice early can help you find an appropriate treatment, manage your symptoms and reduce the risk of acne becoming more severe.
Our pharmacist can assess your skin, provide practical skincare advice and, where clinically appropriate, prescribe treatment through the NHS service.
Book an appointment today
If you have mild to moderate acne, book an appointment with our pharmacy team. Our pharmacist can assess your skin and advise you on the most appropriate treatment and next steps.
