Prescription acne treatments in Ireland: when to move beyond skincare

Most acne can be improved with consistent skincare, but many people benefit from prescription treatment to bring flare-ups under control. This guide explains when to consider prescription options, what each treatment does, how long results take, and simple ways to arrange a prescription in Ireland.

When is a prescription needed for acne

Consider a prescription if you have frequent inflammatory spots, painful cysts, scarring, or acne that has not improved after several months of well-used pharmacy treatments such as benzoyl peroxide and adapalene.

Topical prescription options for acne

• Retinoids (adapalene, tretinoin): reduce clogged pores and inflammation. Start slowly to minimise irritation.
• Benzoyl peroxide combinations: helpful for inflammatory lesions; can bleach fabrics.
• Topical antibiotics: usually combined with benzoyl peroxide to limit resistance.

Oral prescription options for acne

• Oral antibiotics: short courses for inflammatory flares alongside topical maintenance.
• Hormonal treatment: for some women, combined contraceptives or spironolactone may help.
• Isotretinoin: for severe, scarring, or persistent acne under specialist supervision with regular monitoring.

How to get prescription acne treatment online

Step 1:  complete a short medical questionnaire with an online doctor in Ireland, such as Zava.

Step 2: if a medicine is appropriate, the doctor issues a prescription and sends it by Healthmail. If you choose Healthwave, the prescription can be addressed to healthwave.dundrum@healthmail.ie.

Step 3: the pharmacy prepares your order and gets it ready to send. If you choose Healthwave, we pack discreetly and deliver typically within 1–2 working days, or arrange convenient collection.

Zava Consultation

Prefer to speak directly with a doctor?

How long results take and how to avoid irritation

• Allow 6 to 12 weeks to judge progress; continue even if you see early purging.
• Use a gentle cleanser, non-comedogenic moisturiser and daily SPF.
• Introduce retinoids every second night, then increase as tolerated.

Supports available in Ireland

• HSE: Acne overview
• HSE: Acne treatment
• HSE: Acne self‑management

FAQs

When should I move from skincare to prescription acne treatment?

If pharmacy options used consistently for several months have not controlled inflammation or scarring is developing, a prescription review is sensible.

How long until prescription acne treatments work?

Most need 6 to 12 weeks for clear improvement. Some people see early flares before settling.

Do I need blood tests for acne medicines?

Only certain medicines, such as isotretinoin, require regular monitoring under specialist care.