Mr. Onur Gilleard
Qualifications & Experience
Mr Onur Gilleard is a distinguished consultant plastic surgeon on the GMC specialist register. He previously held an NHS consultant post at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London, specialising in skin cancer and microsurgical reconstruction. In 2021, Mr Gilleard transitioned from the NHS to dedicate himself fully to private practice, allowing him to focus exclusively on providing personalised, high-quality care to his patients. He is recognised as an expert in laser treatments, having conducted research and developed advanced treatment protocols using cutting-edge laser technology to optimise both clinical outcomes and cosmetic results.
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With so many acne products and treatments out there, the real question is how to choose the right one for your acne. The honest answer is to match it to severity and type: start with proven over-the-counter actives for mild acne, step up to prescription treatments for moderate acne, and seek specialist care for severe or scarring acne. This guide is a practical decision aid, not a list of miracle cures.
Match Treatment to Severity
- Mild (blackheads, the odd spot): over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or adapalene, plus a gentle routine — give it 8–12 weeks.
- Moderate (widespread inflamed spots): prescription topicals or oral treatments (including antibiotics or hormonal options) from a clinician.
- Severe or scarring (cysts, nodules): specialist assessment, often for isotretinoin — don’t wait, as this is where scarring happens.
The underlying causes and types are explained in acne: causes, symptoms and treatments.
What to Be Wary Of
Be sceptical of “miracle” cures, harsh DIY routines and over-scrubbing — these often inflame acne further. Give any treatment a fair trial (usually 8–12 weeks) before judging it, and change one thing at a time. Picking and squeezing is the fastest route to scarring.
When to Get Professional Help
See a clinician if acne is moderate-to-severe, painful or cystic, scarring, or simply not improving after a fair trial of over-the-counter treatment — or if it’s affecting your confidence. Earlier professional treatment means better control and less scarring. Book an assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I choose the right acne treatment?
- Match it to severity: over-the-counter actives (benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, adapalene) for mild acne; prescription topical or oral treatments for moderate acne; and specialist care, often isotretinoin, for severe or scarring acne. Give any treatment 8–12 weeks.
- Do over-the-counter acne products work?
- For mild acne, proven actives like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and adapalene can work well with consistent use over 8–12 weeks. Moderate or severe acne usually needs prescription treatment, so persistent or worsening acne is worth getting assessed.
- When should I see a professional?
- If your acne is moderate-to-severe, painful, cystic, scarring, not improving after a fair trial of over-the-counter treatment, or affecting your confidence. Earlier treatment gives better control and reduces scarring.
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