5.0 Rating on Google Reviews

Acne and Acne Scars: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

at The Axis Clinic in London

Woman showing smoother skin after acne scarring treatment at Axis Clinic 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

Remodels collagen and tightens the skin to smooth acne scars and improve texture.

LaseMD

Resurfaces the skin to fade acne scars, refine pores, and promote an even complexion.

The Perfect Peel

Exfoliates deeply to clear congestion, brighten skin, and improve post-acne marks.

Chemical Peels

Unclog pores, control oil, and smooth superficial acne scars.

Dermalux LED Light Therapy

Calms inflammation, reduces redness, and accelerates skin healing for clearer, healthier skin.
Woman with active acne before treatment at Axis Clinic London

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.

  • BacteriaCutibacterium 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

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.

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.

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

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. 

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.

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.

You make us look good

What our clients say

Book Your Consultations with Our Experts

During your consultation, our specialists will assess your skin and recommend the most suitable treatments to help you achieve your desired results.

Dr. Carlos Escobar performing Radiesse dermal filler treatment at The Axis Clinic

Get 10% OFF Your First Treatment

Register today to receive your your discount and book your treatment with our team. 

*Terms and conditions apply

By entering your email, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, including receipt of emails and promotions. You can unsubscribe at any time.