Conditions
Acne & Acne Scars
At Define Clinic, we understand that acne scars are more than a cosmetic concern — they can influence confidence, self-image and day-to-day wellbeing.
Acne can affect people at any age and while breakouts themselves may be temporary, the marks they leave behind can have a longer emotional and physical impact. Our medical experts provide evidence-based treatments designed to tackle both active acne and long-term scarring, helping clients achieve clearer, smoother and healthier-looking skin.
What Is Acne? What Are Acne Scars?
Acne occurs when pores become clogged with excess oil, debris and bacteria, leading to inflammation in the skin. Although this is a very common skin condition, the inflammation can damage surrounding tissue, resulting in long-term changes to the skin’s texture and tone, commonly known as acne scars. These can appear as pitted marks, raised bumps, discolouration, uneven texture or a combination of all three.
There are multiple types of acne and scarring, including papules, pustules, nodular acne and the resulting scarring such as ice-pick, boxcar and rolling scars. Understanding the type of acne and acne scars affecting you is essential when planning treatment, as different concerns respond optimally to different clinical approaches.
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Causes & Symptoms
Acne has several contributing factors, and many sufferers experience more than one at the same time. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, excess sebum production, certain medications, disrupted skin barrier function and genetic predisposition can all play a role. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as diet, sleep patterns and skincare routines may influence breakouts or increase inflammation.
Once inflammation becomes significant, structural damage to collagen fibres in the skin can occur, resulting in acne scars. While some sufferers experience temporary post-inflammatory redness or pigmentation, others develop deeper textural indentations that persist without targeted treatment. Acne may also be accompanied by discomfort, tenderness, congestion, whiteheads, blackheads and cystic lesions, depending on severity.
BOOK YOUR CONSULTATIONTreatments For Acne & Acne Scars At Define Clinic
Define Clinic offers a comprehensive range of advanced treatments designed to reduce active acne and improve the appearance of acne scars, restoring smoother, clearer skin over time. Treatment plans are entirely tailored to the individual, taking into account skin type, severity, budget and long-term goals.
Laser & Light-Based Devices
Define Clinic offers industry-leading laser systems such as HALO, MOXI and BBL HERO. These devices address inflammation, remodel damaged tissue, stimulate new collagen formation and improve pigmentation irregularities associated with acne and acne scars. Depending on the device used, you may benefit from visible improvements after just one session, with further gains as collagen production increases in the weeks and months following treatment.
Microneedling
Controlled micro-injuries to the skin stimulate natural collagen regeneration, softening the appearance of indented scarring and improving overall tone and texture. RF-based microneedling further enhances tightening and remodelling for those with more pronounced skin changes.
Chemical Peels
Medical-grade peels can support cell turnover, reduce congestion, minimise inflamed breakouts and refine uneven skin texture. Peels may also help reduce lingering post-inflammatory pigmentation, making acne scars appear more even and less visible.
Injectables
Certain injectables like dermal fillers or Sculptra may be recommended in select cases to rebuild volume and structure from within the skin. This can be particularly effective for those with more pronounced or deep-set pitted scars.
Medical Skincare
For many clients, combining in-clinic procedures with medical-grade skincare yields the best and longest-lasting results. Your practitioner may recommend products containing retinoids, exfoliating acids, peptides, anti-inflammatory ingredients or barrier-supporting actives to maintain improvements between treatments and help prevent future breakouts.
FAQs
What’s the difference between acne and acne scars?
Acne refers to active breakouts and inflammation, while acne scars are structural or pigment changes left behind once inflammation has subsided. Some scarring improves on its own, but deeper or long-lasting changes usually require targeted treatment.
How long will it take to see improvements?
Results vary based on the treatment chosen. Laser and microneedling treatments often create visible improvements within weeks, with continued progress as collagen develops. Skincare-based results tend to build gradually but can significantly support long-term skin clarity.
Are acne treatments painful?
Most treatments are well tolerated. Numbing cream, cooling systems or integrated comfort technology are used wherever appropriate to ensure a comfortable experience.
Can acne return after treatment?
Yes — acne is a condition influenced by hormones, lifestyle and genetics. However, long-term treatment plans and medical-grade skincare can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of future breakouts.
How do I know which treatment is right for me?
Your consultation will include a detailed assessment of your skin, scar type, budget and goals. Your practitioner will then recommend a bespoke plan tailored specifically to your needs.
REVIEWS
Don’t just take our word for it
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I was looking for some non-invasive treatments to address a couple of skin concerns and maintain my skin in top condition. After doing extensive research to find the best practitioner, I came across Dr. Benji Dhillon, founder of the Define Clinic, who came highly recommended. From the start, I felt completely comfortable and confident in his treatment recommendations. I’m absolutely thrilled with the results—they look incredibly natural. I’m very happy with my experience and will definitely be returning in the future
Define Clinic – Botox Patient
9th September 2025
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The Define team make you feel welcome from the moment you enter the clinic. My Polynucleotide treatment was carried out with care by Dr.Arreni, she was thorough with her explanations and made me feel very relaxed during the procedures. I’m very happy with the outcome and would highly recommend Dr.Arreni if you are looking for natural, long-lasting results.
Leila
3rd September 2025
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It’s always special having a treatment at Define Clinic. Lovely staff whose care is always so through and thoughtful
Shirlie Kemp
19th August 2025
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I’ve been going to Dr. Benji Dhillon for all my Botox and facial treatments ever since I moved to London five years ago, and I honestly haven’t looked back. He was the first cosmetic doctor I ever saw, and I immediately felt comfortable in his hands. He just gets it — the results are always natural, never overdone, and I always leave feeling like the best version of myself
Chaya Raichik
19th August 2025
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Define is the best clinic in London. I would only trust Benji for my touch ups and Eden has completely transformed my skin with BBL. They are so incredibly friendly and I genuinely look forward to going to Define. I couldn’t recommend them more!
Amy Stewart
25th November 2024
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Sarah Russell
10th November 2024
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Beautiful clinic and amazing people! My special thank you to Dr Hena for her attention to detail and professionalism.
Olga Jarvis
16th October 2024
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If I had the choice of rating DefineClinic any higher, I definitely would!
All the staff there are lovely, respectful and always happy to help!
I had Dr Sunny & Faye to help and carry out my composite bonding journey.
From my first appointment they were so helpful, trying to gain an insight into what I want in order to achieve my dream smile.
I had my final appointment this week to polish and complete my smile, and I am over the moon with the results.
Couldn’t recommend DefineClinic enough!
Thank you all! :))Joe Gaskell
6th October 2024
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This was my first time ever getting any cosmetic procedure done, and I’m so glad I chose to have this experience done at define with Rosie. Going into my appointment, I was feeling a little apprehensive as to how my results were going to turn out. I just wanted something to help get rid of a few lines on my forehead without anyone noticing that I had anything done. Rosie took all of my points into consideration and she exceeded my expectations. Not only did she try to calm my nerves by bringing me water and making sure my experience was enjoyable, she also made sure that I was completely comfortable with everything she was doing and she made sure that I had all the knowledge I needed before I continued with the procedure.
One thing I will say about define, it’s a little on the pricier side however, it is worth every penny. You are paying for quality and good results!
If anyone is considering going to define (especially if this is your first cosmetic experience), I would highly recommend booking with the lovely Rosie!
Amelia Guida
23rd September 2024
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Simply the best 🚀
Simon Michael Carroll
14th September 2024
Book A Consultation
If acne or long-lasting acne scars are affecting your confidence, Define Clinic is here to help. Book a consultation today and begin your journey toward smoother, clearer and healthier skin with a treatment plan personalised by medical skin specialists.