Overview
Acne affects far more than the surface of your skin. Regular breakouts, congestion and post-acne marks can knock your confidence and make it hard to know which products or treatments to trust. At AL Aesthetics in Solihull, your skin is assessed before anything is recommended, so your plan fits the type of acne you actually have. Depending on that assessment, it may bring together professional skin treatments, advanced facials and medical-grade homecare to support clearer, healthier-looking skin.

What is acne?
Acne is a common skin concern that shows up as blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed spots, pustules, cysts or congestion under the skin. It often appears on the face, but the back, chest, shoulders and jawline are common too. Acne is not only a teenage concern; many adults have persistent or recurring breakouts driven by hormones, stress, lifestyle, unsuitable skincare or excess oil.
What causes acne?
Pores block with oil, dead skin cells and bacteria, which leads to congestion, inflammation and visible breakouts. Common contributors include excess oil, hormonal changes, stress, unsuitable skincare, heavy make-up and genetics. Flare-ups around the chin and jawline are often linked to hormones, while congestion can follow rich products or stressful periods. A consultation helps pin down the likely triggers and the safest direction.
Signs of acne-prone skin
You may notice blackheads, whiteheads, red or inflamed spots, pustules, cystic breakouts, oiliness, enlarged pores, uneven texture or tender blemishes. Some people also see marks once spots heal. These post-inflammatory marks are different from active acne and may need a separate focus once breakouts settle.
How we assess your skin
Before recommending anything, we review your skin history, current routine, breakout frequency, the areas affected, sensitivity and your goals. We also talk through whether your priority is calming active acne, clearing congestion or improving post-breakout marks. Where acne is severe, painful or cystic, we may suggest seeing your GP or a dermatologist alongside or before aesthetic treatment.
Treatments that may help acne
Each treatment is recommended only where it suits your skin after assessment.
- Chemical Peel: A professional peel may help exfoliate the surface, support cell turnover, clear congestion and soften the look of uneven texture or post-breakout marks. Peel type and strength depend on your assessment.
- Medical HydraFacial: May suit congested, oily or dull acne-prone skin. It cleanses, exfoliates and hydrates while helping draw impurities from the pores.
- ZO Skin Health Facial and homecare: A targeted ZO routine can support oil control, exfoliation, hydration and barrier function for longer-term maintenance. Your practitioner advises which products suit your skin.

Recommended skincare for acne-prone skin
The right homecare matters as much as in-clinic treatment. Harsh scrubs, drying products or heavy creams can irritate the barrier and sometimes worsen breakouts. A suitable routine usually means gentle cleansing, non-comedogenic hydration, targeted exfoliation, daily SPF and actives chosen for your skin. Consistency is what brings visible change. Your practitioner may recommend ZO Skin Health products to support your plan.
Our approach
We take time to understand your skin before recommending treatment, then build a plan around your specific concerns, whether that is active breakouts, recurring congestion, oiliness or post-acne marks. The aim is steady, realistic improvement supported by professional advice and the right homecare.
Why choose AL Aesthetics?
People choose our Solihull clinic for genuine, personalised skin assessments, professional treatment advice, advanced skin treatments, medical-grade skincare and a supportive approach to long-term skin health.
Consultation CTA
Struggling with acne, regular breakouts or congested skin? Book a skin assessment at AL Aesthetics in Solihull. We will assess your skin and recommend a personalised plan to support clearer, healthier-looking skin.
Your Consultation – what to expect.
Initial Consultation
Your Treatment
Specialist Aftercare
Frequently Asked Questions
Is acne treatment suitable for sensitive skin?
Often, yes, but your barrier and tolerance are assessed first so the plan does not cause irritation.
Can acne marks be treated too?
Post-acne marks can often be improved with peels or targeted skincare once active breakouts are under control. Textural scarring may need a dedicated acne scar treatment plan.
How many acne treatments will I need?
It varies with your skin, the type of acne and your goals. Acne usually responds to a course of treatments and a consistent routine rather than a single appointment. Your practitioner reviews progress and adjusts as needed.
Can facials help acne-prone skin?
Certain professional facials can help where congestion, oiliness or blocked pores are present, and a Medical HydraFacial is often suitable because it cleanses and hydrates without harsh scrubbing. Active, inflamed acne needs careful assessment first, and a plan may combine facials with peels or skincare.
What is the best treatment for acne?
There is no single best treatment. The right option depends on your skin type, how severe the acne is and the likely triggers. After an assessment, a plan may include a chemical peel, Medical HydraFacial or a tailored ZO Skin Health routine.
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