Acne is a common skin condition that causes spots, oily skin, and sometimes skin that feels hot or painful to touch. It most commonly affects the face, back, and chest.

Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that mainly affects the face. It commonly causes redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, and sometimes pink or red bumps that can look similar to acne.

Acne commonly causes blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, or cysts. Rosacea more typically causes facial redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, and sensitive skin, although it can also cause red bumps. Rosacea can look like acne, so persistent facial redness and flushing can be a useful clue.

You may be able to access acne or rosacea treatment online in the UK through an authorised online pharmacy, depending on the symptoms, the medicine requested, and whether treatment is clinically appropriate. Online supply should follow a clinical assessment and, where required, a valid prescription before dispensing.

Acne flare-ups can be linked to hormonal changes such as periods or pregnancy, and may also be made worse by some medicines, some cosmetic products, and high glycaemic index diets. Acne is common and does not mean your skin is dirty.

Common rosacea triggers include alcohol, spicy foods, hot drinks, sunlight, hot or cold temperatures, aerobic exercise, and stress. Avoiding known triggers where possible can help reduce flare-ups.

No. Suitability depends on your symptoms, diagnosis, medical history, current medicines, severity, and whether there are warning signs that need GP or specialist assessment. That is why online treatment should be based on an appropriate clinical review rather than assumed supply.

Acne treatment does not usually work immediately. NHS guidance says it can take several months for acne symptoms to improve, and many treatments take around 2 to 3 months before they start to work properly.

Yes, for mild acne a pharmacist may be able to advise on suitable treatment, including over-the-counter options such as benzoyl peroxide products. If acne is moderate, severe, painful, scarring, or not improving, prescription treatment or GP review may be needed.