How to Find the Best Acne Dermatologist for You

If you’re struggling with acne, you’re far from alone. It’s the most common skin condition, and whether you have a few persistent spots or severe breakouts, it can have a big impact on daily life. Finding the best acne dermatologist for your needs can make all the difference — not just to your skin, but to your confidence too.

Here are five things to look out for when choosing who to trust with your acne treatment:

Clinical Expertise of Acne Dermatologist Matters

Check qualifications and registrations. The best acne dermatologists will be on the GMC specialist register, with additional expertise in acne and skin health. For example, Dr Ketaki Bhate holds a PhD in the epidemiology of acne and brings that depth of research into her clinical work. Acne isn’t just about spots — it can be linked to hormones, medication changes, or life stages such as pregnancy or perimenopause. An experienced dermatologist will spot these nuances and build a tailored treatment plan.

Reviews and feedback for the best acne dermatologist

What do other patients say? Beyond star ratings, look for feedback that reflects both outcomes and care. Did their skin improve? Did they feel supported? Is the clinic clean? For instance, recently patients told us:

• 5 stars —  Very calming atmosphere and positive experience with Dr Bhate & Shannon – I have been to skin appts in the past where Ive left feeling much worse about the state of my skin; with my wedding coming up, I was worried this would happen again but it was the total opposite – I felt like my skin concerns were taken seriously with strong clinical consideration but with a very positive outlook on where I could get to and how the team could support that. And so far 10 days in – the treatment plan has been brilliant.
• 5 stars –Absolutely superb – I will definitely be visiting again. Dr Dhariwal was friendly and very thorough.
• 5 stars — Dr Armstrong completely cured my face of whiteheads and blackheads. Thank you, No. 23 Skin.

Acne treatment options

Acne treatments range from topical creams and prescription medications (do check they are on the CQC register for good governance) to advanced technologies like AviClear laser, which targets sebaceous glands without the long-term side effects of tablets. A good dermatologist won’t just prescribe the standard options; they’ll guide you through the best evidence-based treatments for your unique skin. If you also struggle with redness or rosacea, options such as broadband light (BBL) therapy can be combined for better results.

Availability and location

We’d love to say that acne gets treated in one appointment only, but in honesty, acne is complex and can take more than one appointment to support you fully. Choose a dermatologist whose clinic offers flexible appointments and proper follow-ups — in person or online — so your treatment can be adjusted as your skin changes.

Is your dermatologist responsive

The best acne dermatologists don’t just hand over a prescription and disappear. They (and their teams) are there to answer questions, adjust treatment, and support you along the way. A good test? Call or email the clinic before booking and see how quickly they respond.

At No. 23 Skin, we’ve built our team with these principles in mind, together with the warmth of being somewhere that really (really) cares about you. Our dermatologists — Dr Bhate, Dr Armstrong, Dr Rouhani, Dr Roest and Dr Dhariwal — bring together decades of experience, pioneering research, and the latest treatments. But even if you choose to go elsewhere, these five points should help you find the right partner for your skin health. Because acne isn’t just skin deep. The best acne dermatologist will treat you as a whole person — and that’s when real, lasting results happen.

Please reach out to me directly on hc@23skin.co.uk if you have any specific questions; I am always happy to help.

Helen

Cofounder
No. 23 Skin
02039411815