Acne & Skin Conditions — Online Consultation & Treatment
Get professional medical care for acne, eczema, and other skin conditions. Speak to qualified UK clinicians online with same-day appointments and prescriptions.
- Professional online consultation and treatment advice
- Same-day prescriptions when appropriate
- Secure video consultations from home
Secure Telehealth Platform Trusted by Over 150,000 Patients
What are Acne and Skin Conditions?
Acne and other skin conditions are common dermatological issues affecting people of all ages. Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Other conditions like eczema and dermatitis involve inflammation of the skin, causing redness, itching, and discomfort.
Common Symptoms
- Blackheads and whiteheads
- Red, inflamed pimples
- Painful cysts or nodules
- Dry, flaky, or cracked skin
- Itching and irritation
- Redness and swelling
- Skin that feels rough or bumpy
- Scarring from previous breakouts
Common Causes
- Hormonal changes (puberty, menstruation, pregnancy)
- Excess oil production
- Clogged hair follicles
- Bacterial infections
- Genetic predisposition
- Allergic reactions to skincare products
- Environmental factors (pollution, weather)
- Stress and lifestyle factors
How Our Online Consultation Can Help
- Assess skin condition severity and type
- Prescribe appropriate topical and oral treatments
- Recommend suitable skincare routines
- Provide advice on lifestyle modifications
- Monitor treatment progress through follow-ups
- Determine if specialist dermatology referral is needed
Home Care
- Gentle cleansing with mild soap
- Avoid touching or picking at affected areas
- Use non-comedogenic moisturizers
- Apply cool compresses for inflammation
- Maintain good hygiene
- Avoid harsh scrubbing
- Use sunscreen daily
Medical Treatments
- Topical retinoids
- Antibiotic creams and gels
- Oral antibiotics for severe acne
- Hormonal treatments
- Topical corticosteroids for eczema
- Specialist dermatology referral when needed
Commonly Prescribed Medications
Adapalene (Differin)
Topical retinoid for acne treatment and prevention
Clindamycin Gel
Antibiotic gel for bacterial acne infections
Hydrocortisone Cream
Mild topical steroid for eczema and dermatitis
Doxycycline
Oral antibiotic for moderate to severe acne
When to Seek Urgent Care
- Severe cystic acne with pain
- Signs of bacterial skin infection
- Widespread rash with fever
- Severe allergic reaction with swelling
- Infected eczema with pus or weeping
- Sudden onset of severe skin reaction
- Skin condition affecting daily activities
- No improvement with prescribed treatment
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention by calling 999 or visiting your nearest A&E.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for acne treatments to work?
Most acne treatments take 6-12 weeks to show significant improvement. Consistency with treatment is key for best results.
Can diet affect acne?
Some studies suggest that high-glycemic foods and dairy may worsen acne in some people, but diet isn't the primary cause for most individuals.
Is it safe to use multiple acne products together?
Using too many products can irritate skin. Our clinicians will recommend a suitable routine that won't cause excessive dryness or irritation.
When should I see a dermatologist?
Consider specialist referral for severe acne, scarring, or skin conditions that don't respond to standard treatments.
Can stress cause skin problems?
Yes, stress can worsen acne and trigger eczema flares. Managing stress through lifestyle changes can help improve skin health.
Are online consultations effective for skin conditions?
Yes, many skin conditions can be effectively diagnosed and treated through high-quality video consultations with clear images.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: January 2025