Retinoid Creams
Retinoid creams (adapalene and tretinoin) are made of vitamin A. They unclog pores, increase the renewal of your skin cells and also help stop scarring.
Skin · Fulwood, Preston
Acne Treatment in Preston: Care by an Expert GP
For papules or pustules that are not resolving, keep coming back or are leaving scars on your skin, receiving a private acne treatment is a suitable option.
Dr Faizal offers various acne treatment options, including topical creams, oral medications, and a specialist referral. Your acne plan of care is always personalised and guided by an expert.
GMC Registered CQC Registered NHS Records Access No Referral Needed
Acne treatment at a glance
From £69
Private prescription writing included.
- Skin assessment with a named GP
- Creams, gels, tablets or hormonal options
- Dermatology referral arranged where needed
- Same-day appointments often available
Reviewed by Dr Faizal Secretary, MRCGP · GMC 7606534 · Last updated October 2026
GP-led care
GP-led Acne Treatment: Same-Day Skin Assessment & Care
Acne treatment by an expert GP may include prescription medications, topical creams, gels, or hormone treatments. The NHS says that these products are more effective at treating acne than pharmacy products.
Dr Faizal may prescribe more than one medicine for acne. Research shows that combination treatments work better because each option tackles a different reason.
At My Private Clinic, your acne treatment starts with a detailed consultation, including skin assessment and medical review. Then he will prescribe medicines or write a private specialist referral letter if your condition requires medicine that only a skin doctor can prescribe.
Looking for the causes, types and symptoms instead? See acne: causes, types and when to get help.
Summary
Acne Treatment At A Glance
- Administered by
- Dr Faizal Secretary (GMC-registered GP)
- Acne Treatment Options
- Prescription creams, gels, antibiotic tablets & hormone treatments
- Suitable For
- Teenagers & adults with moderate, severe & hormonal acne that is sore.
- Medical Tests
- Not required unless indicated
- Acne Treatment Cost
- Consultations start from £69
- Specialist Referral
- A skin specialist referral is arranged if isotretinoin or scar treatment is required.
Why treat it
Benefits of Acne Treatment
Receiving an acne treatment helps more than just resolving the spots. The benefits include:
- Acne prescription creams and tablets reduce redness, swelling, and pus.
- Clears skin pores and prevents future acne breakouts.
- Proper treatment fades away and also prevents acne scarring; it keeps your skin clear.
- Improves your confidence or self-esteem if affected by acne.
- Underlying conditions, such as PCOS symptoms, are treated as well.
Your options
Acne Treatment Options Prescribed by Dr Faizal
There is no single best acne treatment for everyone. Dr Faizal can prescribe various options following the NICE acne guidelines.
Acne Treatment Gels & Creams
A review of acne research states that prescription creams are the first-line acne treatment.
Antibiotic Tablets for Moderate to Severe Acne Treatment
For red, swollen, and painful acne, Dr Faizal may add an antibiotic tablet. Common choices include lymecycline, doxycycline and erythromycin. These are advised to take for 3 to 6 months only.
Hormonal Acne Treatment
For hormonal acne, Dr Faizal may prescribe contraceptive medication. Research showed that women who took combined contraceptive pills for about 3 to 6 months had half as many acne spots.
Isotretinoin (Roaccutane) for Acne Treatment
Isotretinoin is a tablet for severe acne, cystic acne, or acne that leaves scars. It is only used when previous treatments have not worked, and the MHRA updated its safety rules for isotretinoin in 2026.
In the UK, isotretinoin is prescribed by a consultant dermatologist rather than in general practice. Where your acne needs it, Dr Faizal arranges a direct consultant dermatology referral.
Please note: all of these medications can have mild side effects, such as dry skin and sun sensitivity. Dr Faizal will prescribe what is right for you and will also discuss the side effects.
Transparent pricing
Acne Treatment Cost
The consultations for acne treatment cost £69 to £119 at My Private Clinic.
| Appointment | Fee |
|---|---|
| GP consultation (15-minute) | £69 |
| 30-minute GP Consultation | £119 |
| 60-minute GP Consultation | £199 |
| Private Prescription writing | Included |
Blood tests and further investigations, where required, are charged separately and discussed with you beforehand. See the full pricing page.
What to expect 1 2 3 4
Your Acne Treatment Journey
Here's what to expect from your acne treatment by Dr Faizal.
Detailed Consultation
Dr Faizal asks about your acne, e.g., how long ago your acne started? Do you have other symptoms, such as hair fall, weight gain, etc.? And what treatments have you already tried?
Acne Assessment
The GP will assess the skin of your face, chest, or back. He sees the presentation of papules or pustules and whether there are scars and dark marks.
Blood Tests (Only if Indicated)
Most people do not need blood tests. Dr Faizal may suggest one if there are signs of a hormone problem. He explains what the test is for and why it could help.
Acne Prescription
Once your acne is assessed properly, Dr Faizal will write a private prescription. It may include creams, gels, or tablets. Your prescription is always personalised to you.
Where a test is useful you can go ahead with a private blood test in Preston, and you can follow up through a phone or video GP consultation. Prescriptions are issued as a private prescription.
Your GP for acne treatment
Dr Faizal Secretary
BSc (Hons) · MBChB · MRCGP · GMC 7606534
Dr Faizal Secretary is a GMC-registered GP based in Fulwood, Preston. He trained in the UK, holds a medical degree from the University of Manchester, and has a BSc with Distinction from Imperial College London. He is a member of the Royal College of General Practitioners and has experience across both NHS and private general practice.
Dr Faizal takes proper steps to assess your acne and then prescribes a personalised acne treatment.
CQC RegisteredGMC VerifiedSeeing patients in Preston since 2017
5.0
★★★★★
63 verified Google reviews
★★★★★
Had a really good experience. The doctor was friendly, patient and easy to talk to. He listened carefully, explained everything clearly and provided exceptional fast service. It was simple and stress-free. Really appreciate the help and professionalism. Highly recommend!
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★★★★★
I came across Dr Secretary's private clinic when searching for private, local to me, Preston GP appointments. I was immediately impressed by the flexibility of appointments available, ease of booking, and the information on Dr Secretary's website. I could tell Dr Secretary was the type of clinician to actually listen to his patients and offer valuable professional insight. I booked a last minute same day appointment for my daughter, as the pre booked NHS appointment was weeks away; and as I had suspected Dr Secretary was patient, thorough and very attentive. He listened to all concerns, asked all the appropriate questions, carefully weighing up possibilities and options, and was very transparent throughout the entire appointment. He put my mind at ease, with initial concerns, and recommended suitable next steps which have been very helpful. I would thoroughly recommend Dr Secretary to anyone looking for a reliable, attentive and professional private GP, and we certainly won't hesitate to book again. Many thanks on behalf of myself and my daughter.
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★★★★★
Great service. Excellent times that work around a busy lifestyle. Dr secretary is thorough, caring and good bedside manner. Nice to have a GP that you can see consistently at a convenient time. Would reccommend. Ample parking also
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★★★★★
After receiving inadequate care elsewhere, I was left extremely concerned about my health. I contacted My Private Clinic, and Dr. Faizal responded to an at-home call-out within an hour. His prompt action, thoroughness, and genuine care completely turned my situation around. He is an outstanding doctor, and I am incredibly grateful for his support. Highly recommended!
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★★★★★
Working with My Private Clinic has been a wonderful experience. I needed a doctor to see my mother at home quickly. Her regular GP was not available and so we contacted Dr Secretary who came to visit at home the very next day. He has been in constant contact with me throughout the visit and beyond providing very valuable information and support. He’s wonderful to work with and I can fully recommend Dr Secretary and My Private Clinic
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Why Choose My Private Clinic For Acne Treatment?
Named GP Every Time
Dr Secretary personally assesses and prescribes. Not a locum. Not remote.
CQC-Registered
Independently regulated by the Care Quality Commission.
Same Day Available
Appointments often available the same day. Call or WhatsApp to check.
FAQs
FAQs About Acne Treatment
What treatment is the best for acne?
The best treatment for acne depends on its type and severity. For most patients, a prescription combination gel works the best.
What is the most effective treatment for acne?
Treatments that mix two medicines work best, because they tackle multiple causes at the same time. For severe acne, a specialist prescribes isotretinoin.
What is the strongest treatment for acne?
Isotretinoin (Roaccutane) is the strongest acne treatment. In the UK it is prescribed by a consultant dermatologist, and Dr Faizal arranges that referral where it is appropriate.
What acne treatment is safe during pregnancy?
Some treatments, like azelaic acid and benzoyl peroxide, are usually thought to be safe. You must not use retinoids, some antibiotic tablets, spironolactone or isotretinoin. Always talk to a doctor before using any acne treatment if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What is the best back acne treatment?
The effective back acne treatment includes antibiotic tablets and creams. Wearing loose shirts and showering after exercise can help prevent acne growth.
Do I need a referral to take acne treatment from Dr Faizal?
No, you can consult Dr Faizal without a referral. He offers same-day consultations for acne treatment.
Does Dr Faizal offer acne treatment for men?
Yes, Dr Faizal offers a personalised acne treatment for men. The prescription includes creams, gels and tablets, with a consultant dermatology referral arranged where isotretinoin is required.
Can I consult Dr Faizal for fungal acne treatment?
Yes, you can consult Dr Faizal for fungal acne treatment, cystic acne treatment, back acne treatment, and hormonal acne treatment. You can have a same-day consultation without any referral.
How much does acne treatment cost in Preston?
The consultations for acne treatment cost £69 to £119 at My Private Clinic. A 15-minute GP consultation is £69, a 30-minute consultation is £119 and a 60-minute consultation is £199. Private prescription writing is included.
Sources
References
- Li Y, Hu X, Dong G, Wang X, Liu T. Acne treatment: research progress and new perspectives. Front Med (Lausanne). 2024;11:1425675. frontiersin.org
- Acne treatment review and future perspectives. Dermatol Ther. 2022;35(9):e15719. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Smith CA, Gosnell E, Karatas TB, et al. Hormonal therapies for acne: a comprehensive update for dermatologists. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2025;15:45-59. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Now Open
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Mon–Thu 5–8pm · Friday 9am–8pm · Saturday 9am–1pm.
Call, WhatsApp, or email and we will find a time that works.
Address
Fatima Health Centre
228 Garstang Road
Fulwood, Preston
PR2 9QB
Phone & WhatsApp
Opening Hours
Mon–Thu 5–8pm
Friday 9am–8pm
Saturday 9am–1pm
Coverage Area
Areas We Serve Across Preston & Lancashire
My Private Clinic is based in Fulwood, Preston and sees patients from across Lancashire. Choose your nearest area for travel information and local details.