Blackheads
A blackhead is a clogged pore on the skin. The head turns dark from air exposure.
Skin · Fulwood, Preston
Acne: Causes, Types & When to Get Help
Acne is a very common skin condition. Hormonal imbalance, excess oil production, and various environmental factors can cause papules or pustules on the skin.
If your acne is sore and not resolving, you can consult a private GP, Dr Faizal, the same day without any referral.
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Reviewed by Dr Faizal Secretary, MRCGP · GMC 7606534 · Last updated October 2026
The basics
What is Acne?
Acne is common and affects around 9 in 100 people worldwide. Doctors also call it acne vulgaris. In this condition, blackheads, whiteheads, and spots show up along with deep and painful lumps in some cases. It may affect the face, back, chest and shoulders. Babies, teenagers, and adults can have it. Acne is not a sign that your skin is dirty.
Sources: Dermatologic Therapy, PMC and Medicine Advances.
You can have a same-day GP appointment in Preston with Dr Faizal to discuss your acne condition and receive an expert management plan. If needed, he also writes a private specialist referral.
Signs and symptoms
Signs & Symptoms of Acne
Acne can be mild, with just a few spots, or severe, with deep swollen lumps in the skin. Signs of acne can include:
Blackheads & whiteheads
Little pores that are blocked due to excess oil or dead skin.
Papules & pustules
Red bumps or white spots that contain pus.
Nodules & cysts
Swollen and deep lumps in the skin that are painful to touch.
Dark marks and scars
Left behind after spots heal, particularly where acne has been picked or squeezed.
Acne most often affects the face, chest, shoulders and back. It can also affect confidence and emotional well-being.
Dr Faizal will recommend proper care after identifying the type of acne you have.
The types
Non-Inflammatory Types of Acne
Whiteheads
Whiteheads are small white or skin-coloured bumps from a blocked pore with a closed head.
Inflammatory Types of Acne
Papules & Pustules
A papule is a small and firm red or brown bump. A pustule is a white bump filled with pus.
Nodular Acne
Nodular acne presents as painful, pus-filled nodes in the deeper layer of skin that can burst open, leading to scarring.
Source →Cystic Acne
Cystic acne is a severe form. It presents as large, painful and swollen cysts deep in the skin that often leave scars.
Source →Other Types of Acne
Hormonal Acne
Hormonal imbalances affect the oil-producing glands, which lead to acne called hormonal acne. It usually appears on the lower face, chin, jawline and neck.
Fungal Acne
Fungal acne is also known as Malassezia folliculitis or Pityrosporum folliculitis. A yeast that grows in oily skin and hair follicles. It presents as small, red or pus-filled bumps.
Source →Back Acne
Back acne shows up on the upper back and sometimes extends to the arms. They appear as small, red, raised bumps around hair follicles. Some may grow large, swollen and filled with pus.
Source →Acne Fulminans
As explained by DermNet, acne fulminans is a rare and severe form of acne. It suddenly appears with fever, painful joints, and weight loss. Patients should consult a specialist urgently.
Source →Get Expert Help for Acne Today
If your acne is sore, has large lumps, and is not resolving even after home or pharmacy care, you can consult Dr Faizal the same day for personalised care or a private specialist referral.
Causes
What Causes Acne?
The main causes of acne are:
- Blocked Pores: Bacteria, oil and dead skin can sit inside the pores. Your body reacts to them, leading to redness and swelling.
- Hormonal Changes: Puberty, irregular periods and perimenopause or menopause can trigger acne. Hormones tell your glands to produce more oil. Read about irregular periods.
- Family History: Acne often runs in families. If your parents had acne, you may get it, too. Source.
- Medicine & Skin Products: Some medicines can increase oil production. A few skin products are heavy on the skin and can clog pores, leading to acne.
- Stress, Food & Other Factors: Stress and an unhealthy diet can cause hormonal imbalance, indirectly leading to acne formation.
When to get help
When to See an Expert for Acne Vulgaris?
Speak to a GP or an expert if your acne:
- Is deep, sore, or widespread.
- Leaves scars or dark marks.
- Does not improve after pharmacy care.
- Affects your self-esteem.
Seek medical care promptly when:
- Skin becomes hot, swollen and very red, or you feel unwell.
- Acne appears along with joint pain, fever, and loss of appetite (acne fulminans).
Your appointment 1 2 3
What Happens at Your Acne Consultation With Dr Faizal?
At My Private Clinic, Dr Faizal will perform a detailed acne assessment. It is done to provide you with a personalised plan. Here's what to expect:
A Thorough Consultation
Dr Faizal asks about your acne. How long have you had it? What have you tried? Which medicines and skin products do you use? He also asks how acne makes you feel. You will not be rushed.
Skin 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.
Where a test is useful, you can go ahead with a private blood test in Preston.
What Happens After Your Acne Consultation?
Dr Faizal will explain your options. He explains the pros and cons of each choice and how long it will take. You decide what is right for you.
For the full list of what he can prescribe, the drug classes involved and what each appointment costs, see acne treatment in Preston.
Acne care by an expert GP
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 diagnose the type of acne and treat it.
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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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FAQs About Acne Vulgaris
How to reduce acne naturally?
Gentle skin care, not picking spots and using products that do not block pores may help. "Natural" does not always mean safe, and home care may not be enough for deep or lasting acne.
Does creatine cause acne?
Creatine has no evidence of causing acne directly. If you have noticed acne after using creatine, it is essential to discuss it with a healthcare professional.
How to get rid of fungal acne?
Over-the-counter antifungal creams can help get rid of fungal acne. However, it is best to consult a GP to identify your acne and receive proper care.
How to get rid of forehead acne?
To get rid of forehead acne, wash your face twice daily and avoid greasy make up or skincare products. If it does not resolve, you can consult Dr Faizal for expert advice.
What are the main causes of acne?
Excess oil, clogged pores, and disturbed hormone levels can cause acne. Family history, some medicines and some skin products may also affect acne.
What kills acne very fast?
Nothing clears acne overnight. Quick fixes can irritate your skin. Pharmacy creams with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid are common first steps. It is important to understand that every treatment takes time.
What does Dr Faizal prescribe for acne?
Dr Faizal always prescribes evidence-based medications. It may include topical medicines, such as retinoids or combination gels for mild breakouts, or targeted oral antibiotics or hormone-balancing options if the cause of acne is linked to hormones. If your acne needs isotretinoin (Roaccutane), he arranges direct consultant dermatology referrals.
Is acne a sign that my skin is dirty?
No. Acne is caused by blocked pores, excess oil production and hormonal changes, not by poor hygiene. Washing more often or scrubbing harder can irritate the skin and make acne worse.
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Fatima Health Centre
228 Garstang Road
Fulwood, Preston
PR2 9QB
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