Acne Treatment and Acne Scars: Where to Start

New blackheads, inflamed spots and deep painful lumps suggest active acne. A flat mark can remain after a spot settles, while an indented or raised scar changes the skin’s texture. These can occur together. If new spots keep appearing, getting the acne under control is the priority because further inflammation can leave new scars.

Which changes are you seeing?

Notice whether the area feels raised, tender or flat and whether fresh spots are developing. Write down how long this has been happening, which areas are affected and what you have already tried. The face, chest and back can all be affected. A short history helps a pharmacist or GP match advice to the severity and impact.

Colour alone can be difficult to interpret, particularly on darker skin. Describe tenderness and changes in texture too. If you have painful lumps, lasting marks or scars, tell your GP. You can also seek help if acne is affecting your confidence or making you avoid school, work or social events.

A routine that supports acne treatment

Use a gentle cleanser and avoid scrubbing or picking at spots. Choose moisturiser, sunscreen and makeup labelled non-comedogenic if clogged pores are a concern. Remove makeup at the end of the day. A simple routine makes it easier to identify which product irritated your skin.

For mild acne a pharmacist can advise on available treatments and how to use them. Tell them if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or using prescribed skincare. Suitability changes in these circumstances. A long list of new products can add irritation and make it harder to follow the treatment that matters.

When to see a GP and what to ask

Arrange a GP review if acne is painful, widespread, causing scarring or persisting despite pharmacy treatment. Prescription options depend on severity, previous response and medical history. Some people need a dermatologist’s assessment. Tell the clinician about distress as well as the physical symptoms.

Ask when to expect an initial response, when to review the plan and what to do about irritation. Improvement can take several weeks, so agree how long to give the treatment before judging it. A photograph taken under the same lighting over time can help you explain the changes at review.

What about marks and scars once acne settles?

Flat brown or red marks can remain as a spot heals and may fade over time. Pitted or raised scars may need a different approach. At a scar assessment, point out the individual marks that concern you. Ask which are likely to improve with time and which might benefit from a procedure.

For persistent indented scars, a clinician may discuss options such as resurfacing after assessing the scar pattern, skin tone and healing history. Ask about realistic improvement, pigment changes, recovery and the full plan. If active spots return, tell the team before a planned procedure so they can reassess the timing.