At Crewe Hair and Skin Clinic, the ethos is that the road to skin clarity doesn’t start on a treatment couch—it begins with your daily habits, your budget, and your unique lifestyle. While a GP or dermatologist can provide medical intervention for acne, they often overlook the daily rituals that support your skin’s long-term cosmetic health.
This clinic embraces diversity and natural beauty in your skin care plan. Healthy skin isn’t about a “one size fits all” procedure; it’s about a sustainable, personalized approach that honours who you are. The most popular body treatment is for helping the cosmetic appearance of the skin on the back for men.
Why The Approach is Different
Beyond the Prescription: The focus is helping you to find daily skincare routines that medical professionals typically don’t cover or have the time to.
Realistic & Relatable: Working within your actual budget and schedule to ensure your results are maintainable.
Authentic Results: The goal is to enhance what makes you unique, not to mask it.
Using trusted technologies not available in the NHS. Chemical peels and microneedling support your daily home care regime.
This clinic also offers help for acne scarring and pigmentation , details of which are on a separate page
Beginning the process: On line consultation
The approach is built on two non-negotiable pillars:
A Targeted Cleanser: To prepare and purify.
Non-Comedogenic SPF: To protect and prevent post-acne scarring.
While Dr. Wilson is a GP by trade, her work at this clinic is fuelled by her specialized knowledge and advanced training in aesthetic skincare.
Because your time and results are paramount, every journey begins with a Remote Consultation. You will be sent links to the clinic only brands and introduced to aesthetic options. If testers are available you are welcome to order through the website.
Loyalty is rewarded through tiered purchases which lead to selected complementary treatments to optimise your skin’s health.
After that you may wish to your skincare journey remotely, or come to the clinic for an in person assessment.
Preparing for your online consultation
As part of the booking process you will be asked some questions. In addition, you are kindly requested to send in good quality, make up free photographs of the area of concern. Please also email photographs of your current skincare to info@crewehairandskinclinic.uk
Your first online consultation
During the online consultation you will be asked further questions about your health, lifestyle, skin care, treatments tried before and budget. This can take place on the phone or Zoom
You will be introduced to Professional Skin care programmes for use at home (please scroll down the page for more information on some of the different skin care ranges used for acne). Your cosmetic concern may also be suitable for clinic based treatments which you will be introduced to.
There are multiple skin care ranges which will focus on different skincare ingredients e.g. Zo Skin Health has a focus on retinols, Neostrata is based on glycolic acid and derivative. You may wish to take some of the guesswork out of which brand of skincare to choose by choosing to have an acne test DNA test. This can be used to either personalise a topical skincare recommendation or be more selective in targeting a skincare brand.
Once your home care foundation is set, advanced aesthetic treatments can be used at this clinic to accelerate your results.
You may wish to use DNA testing (Acnetest) to help to personalise your acne treatments and skincare.
After your online consultation
You will be emailed links to pages on the clinic website which provide further information about the suggested professional grade skincare, and links to further information about clinic treatments if this is of interest. You will be sent a further link to book in time to explore these options (Zoom or phone). If the products are listed as out of stock, if they can be back-ordered this means that you can place the order and the item will be sent to you direct from the warehouse.
If you purchase skin care from other sources, regrettably this cannot be advised upon as Dr Wilson will only be able to comment on product ranges which she has been trained in, and whose provenance can be assured.
You will also be sent some links to products on the Get Harley platform which are not always routinely stocked in clinic.
PROFESSIONAL GRADE SKIN CARE RANGES - YOUR DAILY SKIN CARE ROUTINE
You will be advised on how to use the products, and which work well together. The ethos is to create a skin care protocol for overall skin health rather than just one hero product.
The skincare ranges used by this clinic for acne and oily skin are:
- ESK – Evidence based skin care
- Hydropeptide
- Intradermology
- Neostrata
- SkinBetter Science
- Zo Skin Health
These product protocols will help you to get better results from clinic treatments outlined further below
1. ESK - Evidence based skin care
This brand believes that skincare should be based on peer-reviewed science, not trends. Developed in Australia by the GP Dr Ginni Mansberg and her husband, ESK focuses on high-concentration actives that are gentle enough for daily use but powerful enough to transform acne-prone skin.
ESK targets the four key drivers of acne—excess oil, bacteria, clogged pores, and inflammation—without stripping the skin’s natural barrier.
The Power of Retinal (Retinaldehyde): Unlike standard Retinol, ESK uses Retinal, which is 20 times more effective at promoting cell turnover but significantly less irritating. This is the “gold standard” for clearing congestion and smoothing post-acne texture.
Anti-Inflammatory Hydration: Using Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) and Salicylic Acid, ESK formulas soothe the redness associated with “angry” breakouts while regulating sebum production.
Microbiome Friendly: Their soap-free, pH-balanced cleansers ensure your skin’s protective layer remains intact, preventing the “rebound oiliness” often caused by harsh supermarket products.
2. Hydropeptide
HydroPeptide is a world-renowned leader in “epigenetic” skincare—the science of influencing how your genes behave to improve skin health. While many acne brands focus on aggressive stripping, HydroPeptide uses a peptide-first approach to clear breakouts while simultaneously addressing the signs of aging. Their “Anti-Wrinkle + Clarify” collection is specifically designed for adult acne, ensuring you don’t have to choose between clearing spots and preventing wrinkles.
Traditional acne treatments often rely on “stripping” the skin, which can lead to redness and premature aging. HydroPeptide takes a sophisticated, “anti-aging for acne” approach:
Why it works for Acne
The “Granactive ACNE” Peptide: This patented peptide is a game-changer. It targets the p.acnes bacteria directly but is far gentler than Benzoyl Peroxide, making it ideal for sensitive or reactive skin.
Anti-Aging Synergy: Adult acne often comes with concerns about fine lines. HydroPeptide formulas include Signal Peptides that stimulate collagen, so you are treating “maskne” or hormonal breakouts while also firming the jawline and smoothing texture.
Non-Drying Sulfur: Unlike traditional sulfur treatments that leave skin flaky, HydroPeptide’s Spot Correction uses colloidal sulfur balanced with botanicals, so the blemish heals without leaving a dry, crusty patch.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): By incorporating Niacinamide and Azelaic Acid, the range doesn’t just stop the spot; it stops the red or brown mark that usually follows, leading to a more even skin tone much faster.
The Verdict: HydroPeptide is the gold standard for adult acne and “inflammaging.” It is perfect if you are looking or a sophisticated, medical-grade routine that feels luxurious but delivers clinical results on both congestion and skin longevity.
3. Intradermology
This revolutionary system redefines the science of skin health by focusing on precision—delivering the right ingredients exactly where they are needed to treat acne at its source. Intradermology is built around a signature 5-stage process (Cleanse, Heal, Smooth, Repair, and Protect). For acne sufferers, this means we can target congestion while simultaneously repairing the damage and redness that breakouts leave behind.
Targeted Acid Cleansing: Unlike generic washes, Intradermology offers specific acid-based cleansers (Salicylic, Glycolic, and Lactic) that allow Dr. Wilson to prescribe the exact “key” to unlock your pores based on your specific acne type.
TRI-RET™ Technology: Their night repair range uses a unique triple-retinoid complex. This maximizes cellular turnover to clear spots and smooth scarring but is specifically formulated to be “non-stripping,” making it ideal for those who have found other retinols too harsh.
The Synergy 6 Protection: Their award-winning SPF is a clinic favourite. It doesn’t just block UV; it protects against pollution, blue light, and infrared—all factors that can aggravate acne-prone skin.
4. Neostrata
NeoStrata for its unrivaled history in clinical dermatology. Known globally as the pioneers of Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) and Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) technology, NeoStrata provides high-performance solutions for oily and blemish-prone skin that has become dull, textured, or uneven.
The NeoStrata approach focuses on “normalising” the skin. Acne often occurs because dead skin cells don’t shed properly, leading to clogged pores. NeoStrata’s formulas are engineered to dissolve these bonds and “reset” your skin’s exfoliation cycle.
Mandelic Acid Expertise: NeoStrata utilizes Mandelic Acid (an oil-loving AHA) which is uniquely effective for oily skin. It penetrates pores to dissolve sebum and has natural antibacterial properties to target the root cause of breakouts.
Non-Irritating PHAs: For patients with sensitive or “angry” acne, NeoStrata uses Polyhydroxy Acids. These provide the same exfoliating benefits as traditional acids but are much gentler and act as humectants to keep the skin hydrated.
Dual-Action Results: While clearing active acne, NeoStrata products simultaneously work on anti-aging—minimizing the appearance of large pores, smoothing fine lines, and evening out skin tone.
5. SkinBetter Science
SkinBetter Science®, a range that has redefined clinical skincare through advanced chemistry. Their award winning products are designed to deliver “visible results with a luxurious experience,” making them a top choice for patients who want a simple but highly effective approach to acne and skin rejuvenation. The hallmark of SkinBetter is their patented AlphaRet® technology. Traditionally, treating acne with retinoids meant enduring “the purge”—redness, peeling, and dryness. SkinBetter has solved this by combining a retinoid with an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) in a way that provides maximum clearance with little to no irritation.
AlphaRet® Technology: A unique molecule that combines a Retinoid and Glycolic Acid. It works overnight to unclog pores and refine skin texture while remaining incredibly gentle on the skin barrier.
Sebum Control: Their specialized “Clearing” formulas focus on balancing oil production without stripping the skin of essential moisture.
The “Gold Standard” of Protection: Their sunscreens are 100% mineral-based but apply like a silk primer, ensuring your pores stay clear while being shielded from the sun.
Why it works for Acne
Zero-Irritation Retinoids: Traditional acne treatments (like Tretinoin) often cause “purging” or peeling. Skinbetter’s AlphaRet molecule is “double-conjugated,” meaning it stays stable and gentle on the surface but delivers clinical results once it hits the deeper layers of the skin.
The “Mystro” Effect: Acne often leaves the skin in a state of constant inflammation. Their Mystro Active Balance Serum is a breakthrough for acne sufferers because it addresses the “global quality” of the skin—reducing the angry red undertones that make breakouts look worse.
Biotech Delivery (InterFuse): Skinbetter uses a proprietary delivery system that ensures large-sized ingredients (like hyaluronic acid) actually penetrate the skin barrier, meaning your acne-prone skin stays hydrated and plump while being treated.
Simplified Regimens: They emphasize that “two to three products can change your skin.” This prevents the “over-processing” of skin that often leads to more breakouts.
6. Zo Skin Health
ZO® Skin Health for cleints who require a high-potency, transformative approach. Developed by the legendary Dr. Zein Obagi, this medical-grade range is designed to “wake up” your skin cells, forcing them to function healthily and clear acne from the inside out.
ZO® is not a “quick fix” brand; it is a comprehensive system built on the philosophy of Getting Skin Ready (GSR). By stripping away the factors that allow acne to thrive—excess sebum, dead skin buildup, and surface bacteria—ZO® creates a canvas where clinical results are guaranteed.
Sebum Control: Dr. Obagi believes excess oil is the root of all skin inflammation. ZO® offers the most powerful oil-control products on the market to “shut down” the fuel source for acne.
Micro-Exfoliation: Instead of harsh scrubs, ZO® uses ultra-fine magnesium crystals and chemical exfoliants to prevent pores from ever becoming clogged.
Clinical Strength Actives: Featuring high-concentration Retinol, Benzoyl Peroxide, and Salicylic Acid, these products are often only available via consultation because of their potency.
Getting Skin Ready
For cliens struggling with persistent shine and congestion, the ZO® Skin Health Complexion Clarifying Serum is a true game-changer. Unlike traditional “spot treatments,” this water-based serum is designed for all-over daily use to preemptively tackle the root cause of breakouts: excess sebum.
By utilizing a specialized blend of Salicylic Acid to deep-clean the pores and ZRS7® (an exclusive red-clover extract complex), it effectively “shuts down” the overproduction of surface oils without the stinging or stripping common in lesser products. This makes it an ideal choice for patients at Crewe Hair and Skin Clinic who have “true oily” skin that feels greasy again just hours after washing. It doesn’t just dry the surface; it calms redness and refines the skin’s texture, providing a clear, matte finish that serves as the perfect foundation for your non-comedogenic SPF
Clinic treatments
The treatment selected for you will be primarily chosen depending on how mild or severe your acne is, your skin type, your adherence to a daily skin care regime.
- Bio-Spicules
- Cleopatra retexture treatment
- Neostrata Pro System Peel
- Neostrata Retinol Peel
- Obagi Blue Peel radiance
- Vi Peel Purify/ Purify precision plus peptides
- WOW Clarify Peel
- Zo Skin Health Acne and Oil Control Peel
1. Bio-Spicules
iD CLINICA™ Bio Spicule Therapy harnesses the power of natural sponge-derived spicules, which are microscopic needle-like structures, to rejuvenate the skin without the use of chemicals or acids. These spicules, tiny enough to penetrate pores without causing damage, serve as gentle exfoliators and collagen stimulators. iD CLINICA Bio-Spicules are composite structures with a chitinous core surrounded by a silica outer layer. The central scaffold is made of beta-chitin, providing a flexible and resilient base that supports the initial formation and growth of the spicule. The silica is deposited around this core in a highly organized manner, forming a rigid and durable shell.
Silica, an abundant mineral found in nature, is similarly well-tolerated by the skin. It is inert and non-toxic, making it suitable for a wide range of dermatological formulations. Moreover, silica particles are known for their ability to absorb excess oil and impurities from the skin surface, contributing to a clearer complexion. Silica has also shown it can facilitate the dislodgment of sebum plugs ensconced within pilosebaceous units. Its inherent mattifying attributes mitigate sebum secretion, preventing the propensity for plug formation.
Furthermore, silica’s gentle keratolytic properties foster desquamation of corneocytes, thereby mitigating pore obstruction. In summary, the safety profile of chitin and silica in skin treatments is supported by their natural origin and established track record of use in dermatology.
A series of 3-4 sessions spaced 2 weeks apart for optimal and lasting results on the face. For other body areas, depending on individual conditions, a series of 6-8 sessions may be necessary. Maintenance sessions are advised every 6-12 months to sustain long-term benefits. It’s also crucial to receive personalized guidance on home care for effective results.
A regal approach to skin health that combines deep exfoliation with nutrient infusion. This treatment is designed to “re-surface” the skin’s top layer, leaving it refined, poreless, and balanced.
Using a similar process to Hydrafacial, the Retexture treatment takes 50-80 minutes. It is dermal abrasion and microchannelling.
6 treatments are recommended every 3-4 weeks. Maintenance treatments are recommended every quarter.
Benefits: Clean, soften and minimize pore size, improve the overall texture of skin, help to control oil production, help with deeper penetration of products and re-hydration
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS Swelling, Bruising, Skin irritation, Redness, Dryness
3. Neostrata Prosystem Skin Peels
A highly customizable “lunchtime” peel using AHAs (Glycolic and Mandelic acids). It is exceptional for clarifying oily skin and smoothing rough texture with zero downtime.
The Neostrata Prosystem peels are very versatile. Most commonly used on the face, they can be used as tolerated on other body areas such as the chest, back, shoulders, décolletage, neck, hands and feet (eyelids are excluded). This is particularly useful if acne is affecting the body as well as the face.
• A series of 4-6 brief, in-office procedures are recommended; some patients may require additional peels to achieve optimal results.
• Peels can be performed at 3-4 week intervals, as long as the skin has fully healed and there were no complications. If skin is not fully healed, increase to 4-6 weeks or longer as needed.
This peel does not have down time if the skin is adequately prepared with the appropriate products from the range
4. Neostrata Retinol Peel
A high-performance peel for those seeking significant rejuvenation. It speeds up cell turnover to clear deep-seated congestion while simultaneously addressing fine lines and scarring. This peel relies on the client washing off the peel at home at a specified time, so therefore would only be offered to a client well established on clinic skincare.
The Neostrata prosystem retinol peel can be used to soften the appearance of acne scarring.
Retinol, Aminofil and NeoCitriate formula reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, laxity, mottled pigmentation and pore size, and enhances clarity/radiance
On days 3-7 expect visible exfoliation and skin sensitivity.
5. Obagi Blue Peel Radiance
Why Choose Obagi Blue Peel Radiance?
While many peels focus only on surface exfoliation, the Blue Peel Radiance is designed to be “lipophilic”—meaning it is attracted to oil. This allows it to dive straight into the follicles where acne starts.
Deep Follicular Cleansing: The 20% Salicylic Acid base dissolves the “glue” that holds dead skin cells together, effectively unclogging pores and preventing future breakouts.
Instant Brightening: It gently lifts away dull, pigmented surface cells, making it an excellent choice for fading the dark marks (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation) left behind by previous acne.
Refined Texture: By stimulating the skin’s natural renewal process, it helps to minimize the appearance of large pores and smooth out uneven skin texture.
The Experience
The “Blue” in the name refers to the tint of the peel, which allows Dr. Wilson to ensure perfectly even application across your skin. The treatment is quick (often called a “lunchtime peel”) and, while you may experience a mild tingling sensation during application, the results are almost immediate. Your skin will feel tighter and appear significantly more matte and radiant.
Dr. Wilson’s Insight: “The Obagi Blue Peel Radiance is a staple in my clinic for patients with ‘congested’ skin. It provides that deep-clean feeling that home products alone often can’t achieve, making it a perfect monthly maintenance treatment for anyone prone to blackheads or oily shine.”
6. Vi Peel Purify/Precision Plus Peptides
The Vi Peel range of peels has a long track history of use across all different skin types.
The Vi Peel purify precision plus peel has been particularly useful for those with darker skins experiencing acne, post acne hyperpigmentation and reducing the appearance of scarring.
There will be peeling in the week after the procedure and specific products need to be used at specific times of day in the week after the peel.
There is an iphone App to help guide you through the process
7. WOW Clarify Peel
WOW fusion Clarify Peel may be a suitable option for people struggling with oily, congested, or “unpredictable” skin. It is a professional-strength acid complex designed to gently but effectively “de-gunk” the pores and kill acne-causing bacteria. Unlike generic peels that simply exfoliate the surface, the Clarify Peel uses a specific blend of acids chosen for their ability to penetrate sebum (skin oil) and calm inflammation.
Lipophilic Action: It contains Salicylic Acid, which is oil-soluble. This allows the treatment to dive deep into the pores to dissolve the “plug” of oil and dead skin that causes blackheads and spots.
Antibacterial & Anti-inflammatory: The peel effectively neutralizes P. acnes bacteria while reducing the redness and swelling associated with active breakouts.
Gentle Resurfacing: While it is powerful enough to clear acne, it is formulated to minimize irritation, making it suitable even for patients who have sensitive, blemish-prone skin.
The Results
Immediate Matte Finish: Significant reduction in surface oil and shine.
Clearer Pores: Noticeable improvement in blackheads and “bumpy” skin texture.
Brighter Tone: Helps to fade the red marks left behind by previous spots.
8. Zo Skin Health Acne and Oil Control Peel
When home care alone isn’t enough to curb excessive oil production, we turn to the ZO® Skin Health Acne & Oil Control Treatment. This is a medical-grade, multi-stage peel designed by Dr. Zein Obagi to tackle the most stubborn oily and blemish-prone skin by “resetting” the skin’s sebum glands.
How It Works
This treatment doesn’t just exfoliate; it utilizes a sophisticated combination of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and professional-strength Salicylic Acid to provide deep pore cleansing.
Dual-Action Exfoliation: The treatment begins with the famous ZO® “Getting Skin Ready” protocol to remove surface debris, followed by a chemical peel that penetrates the lipid barrier to dissolve deep-seated clogs.
Inflammation Suppression: Specialized botanical extracts are used to instantly calm “angry,” red breakouts, reducing the risk of post-acne scarring.
Sebum Regulation: The treatment concludes with the application of clinical-strength antioxidants and oil-regulators that keep the skin matte and refined long after you leave the clinic.
Zo Skin Health Acne and oil control peel is a customized peel that give the opportunity to try several different products from the Zo Skin Health range.
The Acne and Oil Control Peel treatment helps to boost the at home regime to clear skin and prevent breakouts. It is indicated for acne and oily rosacea.
Approximate procedure time: 50 minutes
Optimum Results: Every week for a month
Maintenance: Every 4-6 weeks
Treatment Benefits
Instant Oil Reduction: Deeply purifies the skin and removes the “greasy” feel associated with overactive sebaceous glands.
Pore Refinement: Visibly tightens and minimizes the appearance of large, open pores.
Healing Acceleration: Shortens the life cycle of existing spots and prevents new ones from forming.
Zero Downtime: Known as the “Red Carpet Peel” in its gentler form, this acne-specific version is powerful but designed to leave you looking refreshed and clear, not peeling or red.
Dr. Wilson’s Advice: “For patients dealing with chronic shine or persistent whiteheads, I recommend a course of these treatments every 4 weeks. It is the fastest way to bridge the gap between starting a new skincare regime and seeing the clear, matte skin you desire.”
9. WOW fusion with Botulinum Microtoxin
For patients seeking a high-tech solution to persistent oiliness and visible pores, we offer the WOW fusion with Botulinum Microtoxin. This is not a traditional “anti-wrinkle” injection; instead, it is a specialized mesotherapy technique that delivers micro-droplets of toxin into the very superficial layers of the skin.
How it Works for Acne & Oily Skin
While Botox® is famous for relaxing muscles, when applied superficially via the WOW fusion device, it interacts with the sebaceous (oil) glands and the arrector pili muscles (the tiny muscles associated with your pores).
Sebum Suppression: The micro-tox signals the oil glands to “slow down,” significantly reducing the amount of surface oil your skin produces. This creates a natural, long-lasting matte effect.
Pore Refinement: By relaxing the tiny muscles around the pore opening, the pores appear significantly smaller and the skin surface looks “airbrushed.”
Reduction in Redness: Micro-tox has a calming effect on the superficial blood vessels, making it an excellent choice for patients who experience the red, “flushed” inflammation often associated with acne and rosacea.
Bespoke Nutrient Blend: Dr. Wilson customizes the WOW fusion vial with a cocktail of hyaluronic acid, succinic acid, and vitamins tailored to your specific oily skin concerns.
The effect is often described as “Glass Skin.” Within 1 to 2 weeks of treatment, you will notice:
A dramatic reduction in shine and the need for blotting papers.
A smoother, more refined skin texture.
Fewer breakouts, as the skin is no longer a “breeding ground” for bacteria fueled by excess oil.
Results typically last between 3 to 4 months.
Procedure Time: 45 minutes.
Dr. Wilson’s Insight: “This is my premier treatment for patients who feel they are ‘constantly greasy.’ It provides a level of oil control that topical creams alone simply cannot match. It’s the perfect marriage of medical science and aesthetic refinement.”