Notice more than the appearance of a spot
Acne may involve oily skin, different kinds of spots and deeper painful lumps. It can affect the face, chest or back, and may leave scars. Rosacea commonly affects the face and can involve episodes of flushing, persistent colour change and a burning or stinging sensation.
The NHS notes that rosacea can resemble other skin conditions. Redness may also be less obvious on darker skin. These descriptions can help you explain your experience; they are not a way to diagnose yourself.
Think about where the concern appears, how it feels and whether it changes during the day. A short description of discomfort or sensitivity may be as useful as a photograph.
Take your product history with you
Bring a list of cleansers, moisturisers, make-up and treatments you use, with an approximate start date for each. Note anything that seemed to help and anything that felt uncomfortable. Avoid judging the appointment by whether you leave with a longer routine.
For acne, NHS advice includes gentle cleansing, choosing products that do not clog pores, and avoiding squeezing or harsh scrubbing. Seek advice rather than repeatedly changing several treatments at once when you are unsure what is causing the concern.
Ask the practitioner how they would assess the pattern and which changes, if any, would be appropriate. If you have already received a diagnosis, bring that information and the plan you were given.
When to seek medical advice
The NHS recommends GP advice for acne that is not improving, is painful or scarring, or affects mental wellbeing. It also recommends seeing a GP for symptoms of rosacea.
If you have rosacea and develop eye pain or blurred vision, ask for an urgent GP appointment or call NHS 111. Do not wait for a routine cosmetic consultation to address those symptoms.
For ongoing questions, ask what the proposed plan is intended to improve and when it should be reviewed. Make sure you know the route back to the clinician if the concern changes.
Choosing a skin consultation in Brick Lane
Pharmacillin’s pharmacist-led skin consultations offer a local starting point for discussing common skin concerns at 6 Brick Lane. The consultation may lead to advice, an appropriate care plan or a recommendation for another level of assessment.
Ask the booking team about suitability and fees before visiting. An appointment with this service should not be described as a consultant dermatologist appointment.
Read how to prepare for a skin consultation, or visit our Brick Lane skin-care page to find the clinic contact details.
Sources & further reading
Sources checked 5 October 2026.
This guide provides general information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Your next step depends on an appropriate assessment.
Discuss a skin concern in Brick Lane
Speak to the team about the right appointment, current fees and availability.
Brick Lane Clinic · 6 Brick Lane, London E1 6RF