Acne and Acne Scars: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
at The Axis Clinic in London
What Is Acne and Acne Scarring?
Acne is one of the most common skin concerns, affecting both teenagers and adults. It develops when hair follicles become clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to inflammation, redness, and visible breakouts.
Acne scarring occurs when inflammation damages the deeper layers of the skin, leaving behind uneven texture, depressions, or dark marks that affect overall skin clarity and smoothness.
What treatments are available for Acne and Acne Scars at The Axis Clinic?
At The Axis Clinic in North London, our acne and acne scar treatments are tailored to each individual’s skin type, acne severity, and long-term goals.
For active acne and congestion, Chemical peels and The Perfect Peel help to reduce excess oil, clear blocked pores, and minimise bacteria on the skin’s surface. Dermalux LED Light Therapy soothes inflammation, promotes healing, and enhances overall skin clarity.
For acne scarring and uneven texture, we offer Morpheus8, LaseMD Ultra, and Microneedling. These treatments stimulate collagen and elastin production to smooth irregularities, refine pores, and improve overall skin quality.
Morpheus8
LaseMD
The Perfect Peel
Dermalux LED Light Therapy
What Causes Acne and Acne Scars?
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting both teenagers and adults. It occurs when the skin’s sebaceous (oil) glands become overactive and pores become blocked with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. This blockage leads to inflammation, visible spots, and in some cases, painful cysts beneath the skin’s surface.
Several factors can contribute to acne development, including:
Hormonal changes – fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or perimenopause can increase oil production and trigger breakouts.
Genetics – if acne runs in your family, you may be more prone to experiencing it.
Bacteria – Cutibacterium acnes bacteria within clogged pores can cause inflammation and infection.
Excess oil production – oily skin types are naturally more susceptible to congestion.
Lifestyle and diet – stress, high-glycaemic foods, dairy, and certain medications can worsen acne symptoms..
Acne and Acne Scars
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the symptoms of Acne?
Acne can present in several different forms, ranging from mild congestion to more severe, inflamed breakouts. Common symptoms include:
Whiteheads – closed, blocked pores that appear as small, raised bumps.
Blackheads – open pores filled with excess oil and debris that darken when exposed to air.
Papules – small, tender red bumps caused by inflammation.
Pustules – inflamed spots containing white or yellow pus at the centre.
Nodules – firm, painful lumps that develop deeper under the skin.
Cysts – large, pus-filled lesions that can cause long-term scarring if untreated.
How is Acne diagnosed?
Acne is usually diagnosed through a thorough skin consultation and visual examination. At The Axis Clinic in North London, our practitioners assess the type, severity, and location of your acne, whether it appears on the face, chest, back, or shoulders, to determine the most effective treatment approach.
Your consultation includes a detailed skin analysis to identify contributing factors such as oil production, congestion, and inflammation. We also discuss lifestyle, diet, and hormonal influences, which often play a key role in persistent or recurring acne. If necessary, we may recommend hormonal or blood tests to better understand underlying causes.
Can Acne be cured?
While there is no permanent “cure” for acne, it can be effectively controlled and managed with the right combination of clinical treatments and consistent skincare. At The Axis Clinic in North London, our goal is to:
Prevent new breakouts from forming
Calm inflammation and reduce acne-causing bacteria
Heal existing blemishes safely
Minimise and fade acne scars over time
Is Acne hereditary?
Genetics can play a role in how likely you are to develop acne. If one or both of your parents experienced acne, you may be more prone to breakouts due to inherited factors such as increased oil production or slower skin cell turnover.
However, acne doesn’t always run in families. Many cases occur for other reasons, including hormonal fluctuations, lifestyle factors, or stress.
How can Acne scars be treated?
At The Axis Clinic, we use advanced technologies to smooth and refine skin affected by acne scars. Treatments such as Morpheus8, LaseMD Ultra, Microneedling, The Perfect Peel, Chemical Peels, and Dermalux LED Light Therapy stimulate collagen production, resurface the skin, and improve texture and tone.
Will Acne scars fade on their own?
Mild pigmentation and superficial marks may fade gradually over time, but deeper scars typically require professional treatment. Collagen-stimulating and resurfacing procedures can significantly reduce their visibility and restore a smoother, more even complexion.
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What our clients say
EXCELLENT Based on 136 reviews Posted on Dina Rickman26 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Alev and Carlos are so knowledgable and good at what they do. I had a great BBL hero and gentle laser resurfacing treatment at axis. Would recommend to anyone!Posted on Kamilla21 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It’s always a pleasure to visit the Axis Clinic. Dr Carlos and his team look after me with great care, adjusting their approach so there is never any discomfort. Each visit feels relaxing, with friendly conversation, and I am already seeing results!Posted on Ina Hupi8 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Always a pleasure visiting the clinic. The team provides a truly professional and personalised experience, with exceptional attention to detail. Every visit feels tailored to my needs, and the care and reassurance I receive make the whole experience both relaxing and luxurious. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend their services. Special shoutout to Carlos and Alev!Posted on Elizabeth Thomas6 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Always excellent service, advice and wonderful staff. I wouldn’t go anywhere else for my skin!Posted on Sian Halas5 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have total trust in Dr Carlos with my face - Alev is incredibly passionate and you can feel that in the service and innovation at Axis. So grateful to live locally to them. I know I could come to them with any concerns and get very effective outcomes - they absolutely know what they’re doing.Posted on Gunac Yaman3 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I had an amazing experience at The Axis Clinic for my PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) hair treatment! Dr. Carlos performed the procedure, and I couldn't be happier with the results so far. From the moment I walked in, the clinic's atmosphere was welcoming and professional. Dr. Carlos took the time to explain the entire process, addressing all my concerns and making me feel at ease. His expertise and gentle approach made the treatment quick and comfortable. I've started to notice positive changes in my hair, and I’m excited to see the continued results. The staff were friendly, and the clinic was impeccably clean. I highly recommend The Axis Clinic and Dr. Carlos for anyone considering PRP treatment! Thank you for such a fantastic experience!Posted on Anette C2 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Always a pleasure to come here. Friendly, professional with expert medical knowledge and training. Also the results speak for themselves! Very happy and will continue to be a happy customer for a long time to come I am sure.Posted on Eleanor Martin30 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing clinic. So happy to have found this place. Hydrafacials with Sara are amazing- my skin looks glowy, fresh and I get loads of compliments after each visit. Sara is super knowledgeable and takes her time to explain every step. I also get botox here. I’ve had it elsewhere in the past, and can 100% say Dr Carlos is the best. He takes time to explain each procedure, has such careful placement, minimal bruising, and great results- I couldn’t be happier. Thank you, Axis Clinic!Posted on murat yilmaz28 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an amazing experience at the axis beauty clinic today for my laser treatment. The staff was incredibly professional and made me feel comfortable throughout the process. I’m already seeing improvements in my scars, and I couldn't be happier with the results! Thank you for your excellent service and care. I look forward to my next visit!Posted on SRKN YMN28 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I came to Thr Axis Clinic because Dr. Carlos is a surgeon, and I completely trust him with all my injectables like Botox and PRP for my hair. The clinic also has the best lasers — CO2 and BBL Hero — so I was able to find everything I need under one roof. Alev has truly transformed my skin with her laser treatments and skincare recommendations. The whole team is professional, knowledgeable, and caring. Highly recommend
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