Book NowBook NowAAS-Induced Acne (steroid acne) is a common side effect of anabolic steroid or testosterone use. It typically appears on the face, chest, shoulders, and back due to increased oil production, clogged pores, and bacterial overgrowth stimulated by high androgen levels. These breakouts can range from mild to severe cystic acne and may lead to long-term scarring if left untreated. The condition is often linked to hormonal imbalance, particularly elevated testosterone, DHT, and suppressed natural endocrine function following anabolic cycles.
AAS-Induced Acne (steroid acne) is a common side effect of anabolic steroid or testosterone use. It typically appears on the face, chest, shoulders, and back due to increased oil production, clogged pores, and bacterial overgrowth stimulated by high androgen levels. These breakouts can range from mild to severe cystic acne and may lead to long-term scarring if left untreated. The condition is often linked to hormonal imbalance, particularly elevated testosterone, DHT, and suppressed natural endocrine function following anabolic cycles.
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At Harley Street MD, we offer comprehensive medical care to manage and prevent acne caused by anabolic or performance-enhancing drug use.
Our process includes:
This service forms part of our specialist AAS aftercare program — providing confidential, judgment-free medical support led by GMC-registered doctors experienced in men’s health and hormone optimisation.
While discontinuing anabolic use is ideal, acne can often be managed through targeted medical treatment. Harley Street MD doctors provide safe, prescription-based therapies to reduce inflammation, prevent scarring, and stabilise hormones, even during ongoing use.
Treatment plans may include topical and oral medication (antibiotics, retinoids, or hormonal regulators), blood testing to assess testosterone and DHT levels, and prescription skincare to reduce sebum production. For severe cases, hormonal correction or Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) may be recommended.
Most patients notice improvement within 4–8 weeks, depending on severity and adherence to treatment. Full recovery may take several months as hormonal balance stabilises.
Recurrence is possible if hormone levels remain elevated, but with ongoing management and regular skin maintenance, breakouts can be significantly reduced. Your doctor may also recommend safer AAS cycles and PCT planning to prevent future flare-ups.
Yes. Treatment remains effective regardless of whether you’ve discontinued anabolic use. Once hormones stabilise, recovery is often faster, and skin typically responds more positively to therapy.
Yes — all consultations at Harley Street MD are strictly confidential. Your medical information is never shared without your written consent, and all appointments are handled discreetly in a CQC-registered environment.
Blood testing is highly recommended to assess testosterone, DHT, oestrogen, and liver function. This allows your doctor to identify underlying imbalances and personalise treatment accordingly.
Consultations start from £200 for 30 minutes or £300 for 60 minutes. Blood tests and prescriptions are priced separately, depending on individual needs and treatment length.
Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) increase testosterone and DHT levels, which stimulate oil glands in the skin. This leads to clogged pores, inflammation, and acne breakouts — particularly on the face, chest, shoulders, and back.
Mild to moderate scarring can often be reduced with microneedling, chemical peels, or PRP treatments. Our doctors assess each case individually and design a follow-up plan to address both active acne and scarring.
All treatments are performed by GMC-registered doctors only.
The clinic is accredited by JCCP and CPSA, and registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for medical safety and patient care.
The CQC has rated Harley Street MD “Outstanding” in its inspections.
This ensures the highest level of safety, ethics, and professional care in non-surgical aesthetic medicine.
With over 17 years of experience, Dr Tan is a BCAM full member and advanced injector, specialising in natural, proportionate results using advanced techniques.
UK-trained medical doctor, practising aesthetics since 2008
Certified Advanced Injector by Allergan and MD Codes™ expert
Member of BCAM, MRCS(Ed), ECAMS, MRCGP, FHEA
Featured on TV and in media as an expert in cosmetic medicine
