Acne & Skin Treatment — Tretinoin, Doctor-Led Acne Care

Overview

Effective, evidence-based acne treatment

Acne affects up to 95% of people aged 11–30, and a significant proportion of adults. Despite its prevalence, acne is frequently undertreated — with patients cycling through over-the-counter products for years before accessing prescription treatments that are far more effective.

Dr Qurbain takes a structured approach to acne: assessing severity (mild, moderate, severe), skin type, hormonal contribution, scarring risk and prior treatment response before prescribing an appropriate regimen. Tretinoin, topical antibiotics and hormonal management are all available where clinically appropriate.

Treatments covered

What we prescribe

💊 Tretinoin (Retin-A)

Tretinoin is the gold standard topical retinoid for acne and is also evidence-based for photoageing, fine lines and skin texture. Available in 0.025%, 0.05% and 0.1% concentrations. Dr Qurbain prescribes the appropriate strength with full instructions on application, sun protection and managing the initial adaptation period.

🔴 Topical and Oral Antibiotics

Topical clindamycin and oral antibiotics (doxycycline, lymecycline) are effective for inflammatory acne. Dr Qurbain prescribes these where clinically appropriate, with appropriate duration and antibiotic stewardship guidance to minimise resistance.

🌞 Hormonal Treatment for Women

Hormonal acne in women (typically flaring around the jaw and chin) may respond to the combined oral contraceptive pill or, in some cases, spironolactone. Dr Qurbain assesses hormonal contribution and, where appropriate, includes hormonal management as part of the treatment plan.

⚙ Skincare Optimisation

The wrong skincare routine can worsen acne. Dr Qurbain reviews your current products and provides evidence-based recommendations on cleanser, moisturiser, SPF and active ingredients compatible with your prescription treatment.

The process

What your consultation involves

Pre-consultation questionnaire: acne history, prior treatments, current skincare, hormonal history (for women) and any relevant medications
Photographs of affected areas reviewed by Dr Qurbain prior to consultation
30-minute video consultation to assess severity, skin type and appropriate treatment
Personalised treatment plan with prescription of appropriate agents
Written instructions on how to use tretinoin including sun protection advice and managing initial purging
6-week follow-up to assess response and adjust treatment as needed

📋 Guidelines and evidence base

NICE NG98 — Acne vulgaris: management
British Association of Dermatologists guidelines on acne treatment
Evidence base for tretinoin in acne and photoageing (multiple RCTs)
Antibiotic stewardship guidance for topical and oral antibiotics in acne

Pricing

Transparent fees

Initial Consultation

£120

30-minute video consultation · Severity assessment · Personalised prescription plan · Written instructions included

Book now →

Follow-Up & Prescription Renewal — £60

6-week or 3-month review
Treatment response assessment
Prescription adjustment if needed
Ongoing prescription management

Medication costs (typical)

Tretinoin 0.025% cream (40g): £15–25
Topical clindamycin: £8–15
Lymecycline 408mg (28 caps): £10–20
Dispensed separately by pharmacy

Acne & SkinTreatment