Acne is on the rise, how can YOU minimise the effects?

ACNE

Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting millions worldwide.

Yet,

Acne is entirely treatable.

It requires a combination of lifestyle modifications, optimisation of skin care and then depending on your skin, medical creams, tablets or even procedures. Dr Emma is keen to find a solution that will sustainably improve skin, not just temporarily.

Acne doesn’t just affect the skin; it affects confidence and overall well-being.

Dr Emma Wedgeworth specialises in treating acne with bespoke solutions tailored to individual skin needs. With her expertise, acne is entirely treatable—helping patients achieve healthier, clearer skin that lasts.

What is Acne, and How Can Dr. Emma Help?

Spots, acne and breakouts arise from abnormalities of the sebaceous gland; the oil-producing gland in the skin. Oil production in the gland increases, this clogs the pore and then shifts the microbiome of the skin, with resultant inflammation.

Studies suggest that up to 50% of adult women will still suffer from breakouts to some degree in their 20s and 30s. Whilst the exact reason behind this increase is unclear, theories include a more processed diet, changes in microbiome and hormonal changes.

Whilst for some women, acne symptoms may be a hormonal imbalance causing changes in oil production, the majority of women with breakouts have normal hormones. The issue lies in the skin’s response to the circulating hormones.

Dr. Emma understands acne’s profound impact on your personal, professional, and social life. Her comprehensive approach combines lifestyle changes, optimised skincare routines, and tailored medical treatments to provide sustainable solutions.

With Dr. Emma, you’re not just addressing acne temporarily—you’re achieving long-term results.

Why Choose Dr Emma?

Exceptional Expertise

Dr. Emma Wedgeworth is a leading dermatologist on Harley Street, specialising in acne treatment. With years of experience and a deep understanding of skin health, she offers personalised care backed by cutting-edge science.

Tailored Solutions

No two skin types are the same. Dr. Emma’s bespoke approach ensures that every treatment plan is designed specifically for your skin’s unique needs, maximising efficacy and minimising discomfort.

Support At Every Step

From your initial consultation to ongoing treatments, Dr. Emma provides continuous guidance and support, ensuring you feel confident and cared for throughout your journey to clear, healthy skin.

Types of Acne

Comedonal Acne

Comedone describes a blocked pore. An open comedone is a ‘blackhead’ whereas a closed comedone appears as a flesh-coloured bump under the skin, which may only be visible when the skin catches the light. Comedonal acne is often described as ‘texture’ because whilst the blocked pores may not be entirely visible, the skin feels bumpy and isn’t smooth. Makeup can often exacerbate the appearance of comedonal acne.

Fungal acne

Fungal acne may be seen in people who have an oilier skin.  It is common in warmer weather and humid climates.  It often appears over the forehead, neck and chest with very small, red itchy bumps sometimes with a yellow head.  This is due to a combination of excess oil and an overgrowth of yeast.

Cystic acne/acne conglobata

Cystic acne is a severe type of acne which results in tender cysts deep in the skin and potential scarring. Acne conglobata is the most severe form of cystic acne and may run in families.

Nodular Acne

Deep, painful spots under the skin, often localised around the chin, are typical of nodular acne. This type is common in adults and can be particularly stubborn.

Papulopustular Acne

Characterised by red bumps and yellowheads (pus-filled spots), this is one of the most common forms of acne.

Treatment Options

Dr. Emma’s holistic and scientific approach to acne treatment addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes.

Skincare

Finding the right skin care is essential when tackling blemishes and congestion.  Everyone has different skin and therefore needs a personalised, bespoke approach to skin.   When choosing skincare for acne-prone skin, the tendency has been to ‘dry’ the skin out.  However, we know now that even oily skin can be sensitive and that keeping the skin barrier healthy, hydrated and intact is essential to balance the microbiome and minimise inflammation.  Dr Emma will help guide you towards a skincare and makeup routine that is right for you and your skin.

Medicated Creams

Adding medicated creams into your skincare routine is often the first step in treating breakouts and can be very effective.  Depending on your skin type, Dr Emma will advise different ingredients or combinations of ingredients including retinoids, azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide and sometimes topical antibiotics.  Sometimes these preparations may be need to specifically formulated to exactly meet your skin’s needs.

Tablets

For some people creams alone may not be enough.  This might be for several reasons; the acne is too severe to be treated with creams alone, spots have been going on for a very long time or the skin is too sensitive to tolerate creams that are required to shift spots.  Dr Emma will talk you through the pros and cons of each different treatment to help you decide what is best for you.  Dr Emma uses three types of tablets:

1) Tablet antibiotics

2) Hormonal tablets (women only) 

3) Oral isotretinoin (known as Roaccutane)

Procedures

Whilst most acne will respond to medical treatments, there are some cases where procedures may be advised.  Procedures used for acne include lasers and cautery.

A Word from Dr Emma

“Acne doesn’t have to define your life. With the right combination of treatments and a bespoke approach, clear skin is achievable. My goal is to help my patients feel confident, supported, and empowered every step of the way.”