Acne — an integrated protocol, not a single treatment
Reviewed By
Dr Vishal Patel
BDS Liverpool · MSc Aesthetic & Restorative Dentistry Manchester · GDC 103127 · AACD Member · Invisalign Diamond II Provider · IFAAS (International Fellowship in Advanced Aesthetic Science) · Facial anatomy & cadaver course, Dr Ali Pirayesh, University of Amsterdam · Harley Academy foundation training in injectable aesthetics · IBSA-trained (Profhilo) · NeoStrata-trained (skin peels) · Lynton Lasers trained, incl. ONDA
Last Updated
October 1, 2026
Acne is a chronic condition managed through integrated protocols — clinical skincare, in-clinic treatments, lifestyle support, and where needed, referral. We don't promise a single-treatment cure.
Acne: a long-term plan, not a quick fix
Types of acne
Acne ranges from blackheads and whiteheads to inflamed spots, hormonal breakouts along the jaw, and deeper cysts. The right plan depends on the type and severity. If persistent redness is the main concern rather than spots, our guide to rosacea may be more relevant.
What is the most effective treatment for acne in the UK?
For mild to moderate acne, a consistent skincare routine with proven ingredients, combined with in-clinic treatment, works well:
- Clinical skincare with ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and retinoids; we use NeoStrata
- Our acne skin peel (from £160), which gives consistent, predictable results for most people with mild to moderate acne, often as a short course
- In-clinic acne treatment (from £160) to clear congestion
- LED light therapy to calm inflammation
- Referral to your GP or a dermatologist for prescription treatment where needed, including for moderate to severe or cystic acne
After acne
Once acne is controlled, marks and scars can be treated; see acne scarring. Nutrition can also play a part, and our nutritional therapist can help alongside your medical care. For skin texture afterwards, you may also wish to read about our PRP facial.
Why see us
Every skin plan is overseen by Dr Vishal Patel, who is NeoStrata trained. The clinic is at 222 Essex Road, Islington, London N1 3AP, two minutes from Essex Road station and a short ride from Angel, Highbury, Canonbury, Hackney and Stoke Newington. Many patients cycle or use a Lime or Forest e-bike. If skin looks tired once breakouts settle, our guide to dull skin may help.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Vishal Patel · BDS · MSc Aesthetic & Restorative Dentistry · GDC 103127. Last reviewed 1 October 2026.
Dr Vishal Patel
Clinical lead · Sole aesthetic prescriber · 10 years in facial aesthetics
BDS Liverpool · MSc Aesthetic & Restorative Dentistry (Manchester) · GDC 103127 · International Fellowship in Advanced Aesthetic Science (IFAAS) · Facial anatomy and cadaver course with Dr Ali Pirayesh, University of Amsterdam · Harley Academy · IBSA and NeoStrata trained
We will tell you when a treatment is not the right answer. That honesty is part of the treatment.
Read Dr Patel’s profile →An honest assessment, then a plan.
Consultation — £65
A skin assessment with an honest view of what will help. The fee is redeemable in full against treatment.
Your plan
Skincare and in-clinic treatment for your acne type.
Reviews
Regular reviews, with referral if prescription treatment is needed.
Start with a consultation
- £65, redeemable in full against treatment
- Matched to your acne type
- GP or dermatology referral where needed
Or call 020 8127 4567 · WhatsApp +44 7974 910222
222 Essex Road, Islington N1 3AP · Mon–Fri, 8am–7pm
If you are still weighing up your options, our overview of microneedling brings them together in one place. For congestion, our comparison of HydraFacial vs microdermabrasion may also help.
Further reading
Chemical peels in London
Medical-grade chemical peels deliver controlled exfoliation at varying depths — superficial to medium — to address pigmentation, texture irregularities, mild acne, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. Layered protocols and multi-session courses produce the meaningful results.
Medical-grade facials in London
Clinical facials built around professional skincare and your skin concern, overseen by Dr Vishal Patel.
Microneedling in London
Medical-grade microneedling uses controlled micro-injury to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture, pigmentation, fine lines, and scarring. Multi-session protocols. Modest downtime.
LED light therapy — wavelength-specific support
LED light therapy uses specific wavelengths — red for collagen support, blue for acne bacteria, infrared for inflammation — as standalone or as add-on amplifier to other treatments. Painless and considered, no downtime.
Transparent pricing
All prices include consultation, treatment, and aftercare. No hidden fees. 0% APR finance available on plans over 12 or 24 months.
Clear prices, set out before you start.
Redeemable in full against treatment
Per session
Per peel, usually a short course
Included
- Skin assessment
- A written plan
Quoted separately
- Skincare products, priced separately
0% APR finance over 12 months via Tabeo, subject to status.
FAQ
If your question isn't here, call reception on +442081274567 or book a free discovery call.
View all FAQs →Can acne scars be completely removed?
Substantial improvement is realistic for most scar types; complete removal is rare. Honest framing: some scars improve dramatically, some only partially, some are difficult to change much. Combined-modality plans matched to scar profile produce the best outcomes.
What is the most effective treatment for acne in the UK?
For mild to moderate acne, consistent skincare with proven ingredients plus in-clinic treatment such as our acne skin peel, which gives consistent, predictable results for most people. Moderate to severe acne often needs prescription treatment from your GP or a dermatologist.
How much does acne treatment cost?
At Dental & Wellness London, our acne skin peel and in-clinic acne treatment are from £160 per session, usually as a short course. Consultation £65, redeemable.
Can you treat hormonal acne?
We can help with skincare and in-clinic treatment, and refer you to your GP for hormonal assessment where appropriate.
