Can a GP Treat Teenage Acne or Is a Dermatologist Needed?

Can a GP Treat Teenage Acne, or Is a Dermatologist Needed?

Yes. A GP can assess and treat most teenage acne, including prescribing creams, gels and oral treatment and reviewing progress. Referral to a dermatologist or another suitably trained doctor is more likely when acne is nodular or cystic, scarring, not responding to treatment, or when isotretinoin is being considered.

Parents sometimes assume that every teenager with acne needs a consultant dermatologist. That belief can mean months of waiting and extra cost before anything starts. A more useful first step is an appropriately trained doctor who can assess severity, start suitable treatment and recognise when referral is needed.

What a GP can do for teenage acne

A GP can take a history, look at the pattern of acne, grade its severity, assess scarring risk and ask how it is affecting your teenager. Depending on what is suitable, that can mean prescription topical treatment, oral treatment or a combination, followed by a review at around 12 weeks.

When is dermatology referral more likely?

The HSE acne treatment guideline (v2.0, reviewed February 2026) lists these as reasons for referral:

Cysts or scarring, ideally referred at first presentation.
Nodulocystic acne.
Acne that has not responded to two different oral antibiotic courses, each used for 3 to 6 months alongside a suitable topical treatment.

Diagnostic uncertainty and significant psychological distress are also good reasons to involve a doctor with more dermatology experience.

What about isotretinoin (Roaccutane)?

Isotretinoin is a prescription medicine for severe or scarring acne, or acne that has not responded to other treatment. The HSE guideline states that referral to a suitably trained doctor is necessary for it to be considered. It needs regular monitoring, including blood tests and mood checks, and strict pregnancy prevention for anyone who could become pregnant. It is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Side effects such as dry skin and lips are common, and mood changes must be reported straight away.

Does online GP-led acne care replace dermatology?

No service should replace care that a patient clinically needs. Online GP-led acne care can offer accessible assessment, treatment and follow-up for suitable patients. If someone needs an in-person examination, urgent care or a consultant-led pathway, that should be explained and arranged.

How should parents choose a service?

Check the doctor's Irish Medical Council registration and training, the age range they treat, whether follow-up is built in, how prescriptions and monitoring are handled, and what happens if online care is not suitable. Be wary of any service that guarantees a particular medicine or promises a cure.

When to see a doctor

Book an assessment if acne is painful, leaving marks or scars, spreading to the back or chest, not improving after two to three months of pharmacy treatment, or affecting your teenager's mood or confidence. Seek same-day care if acne worsens suddenly with fever, joint pain or feeling unwell.

Frequently asked questions

Do we need a GP referral to see an acne doctor privately?

Not for every service. Many private and online services accept direct bookings, but your own GP should still be kept informed.

Is Dr Tara a dermatologist?

No. I am a GP with a special interest in dermatology and postgraduate training in clinical dermatology, registered with the Irish Medical Council.

Can a GP prescribe acne treatment?

Yes. GPs can prescribe a range of acne treatments when clinically appropriate. Some treatments need a dedicated pathway and closer monitoring.

Will my teenager always need medicine?

No. It depends on the type and severity of acne, what has already been tried, and your teenager's preferences and medical history.

If you are unsure which level of care is right, talk to a doctor about your teenager's acne.

Sources

Reviewed by Dr Tara Treacy, GP with a special interest in dermatology (IMC 411337). Last reviewed: 26 October 2026. General information only; it does not replace an individual medical assessment.