Allura guide
Private dermatology — when to skip the NHS wait
Mole checks, eczema, acne, suspected skin cancer. Where private moves the needle and where the NHS pathway is fine.
25 April 2026 · Allura editors
NHS dermatology referrals can take 18 weeks to first appointment in many parts of the UK in 2026. For most things that's fine. For some things it isn't.
When private dermatology is worth it
- Mole that has changed. A new, changing or asymmetric mole should be assessed inside 2 weeks. The NHS 2-week-wait pathway exists for exactly this — but if your GP isn't sure whether to make that referral, paying £180-280 for a private consultation now is the right call.
- Acne that's scarring. Acne scarring is largely preventable but only if you start oral treatment early. A 16-week wait can be the difference between clearing up and lifelong scarring. Private consultants can prescribe oral isotretinoin (Roaccutane) much faster than the NHS pathway.
- Persistent eczema or psoriasis. Topical steroids alone often aren't enough. A private dermatologist can move you onto immunomodulators or biologics in weeks rather than months.
- Pigmentation, melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Cosmetic on the NHS, so you'll pay either way. Private is usually cheaper than aesthetic clinics for the actual medical work.
When the NHS pathway is fine
- A non-changing mole you're worried about — book a routine NHS GP appointment first.
- Mild eczema responding to topical treatments.
- Allergic reactions you suspect — your GP can do a lot before a specialist is needed.
How to verify a UK dermatologist
- GMC Specialist Register entry under Dermatology. A GP with an interest in skin is not a consultant dermatologist — both can be useful, but the labels matter.
- British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) membership signals continuing education in the speciality.
- CQC-registered clinic for in-person work, especially if you'll be having any procedure (cryotherapy, biopsy, mole removal).
What we'd want a friend to know
A good private dermatology consultation is not just a consultation — it's a clinical photo record, a written treatment plan that you can take to your NHS GP for prescription continuation, and a clear answer on what changes warrant follow-up. £200-280 buys all of that. The clinics charging £350+ should be including bloodwork or a procedure, not just more time.