How to prepare for a video visit about Acne

Audience: pediatric

Acne is a common skin condition that often affects children and teenagers. Preparing for a video visit about acne can help you get the most from your appointment. During the visit, a healthcare provider will ask about your skin, habits, and any treatments you have tried. They may also look closely at your skin through the video. To get ready, gather information about your acne, including when it started and what makes it better or worse. Make sure you have good lighting and a quiet place for the visit. Telemedicine can help with education and advice about acne care, but some cases may need an in-person visit. This guide helps you prepare, understand what telemedicine can do, and know when to seek urgent care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe redness, swelling, or pain around acne lesions — seek urgent medical care.
• Sudden worsening of acne accompanied by fever — get in-person evaluation immediately.
• Signs of skin infection like pus, warmth, or spreading redness — contact healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing education about acne and skin care routines.
• Reviewing your skin condition via video to offer advice.
• Discussing over-the-counter treatment options.
• Determining if an in-person visit is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical skin examinations or procedures.
• Prescribing certain medications that require in-person assessment.
• Treating severe or infected acne requiring urgent care.
• Collecting skin samples or laboratory tests.

What to expect during your video visit

Your healthcare provider will ask questions about your acne, such as how long you've had it, where it appears, and if you've used any treatments. They will also look at your skin through the camera. Be ready to describe your skin care routine and any changes in your skin.

How to prepare your environment

Find a quiet, well-lit room for your video visit. Natural light or a bright lamp can help the provider see your skin clearly. Have a mirror nearby if you need to show different areas of your face or body. Make sure your device's camera works well and the internet connection is stable.

Information to have ready

Write down any questions or concerns you have about your acne. Keep a list of any medications, creams, or home remedies you have tried. Note any allergies or skin sensitivities. If possible, take photos of your acne before the visit to share if video quality is poor.

What telemedicine can and cannot do for acne

Telemedicine can help with education about acne, advice on skin care, and guidance on over-the-counter treatments. It can also help decide if you need to see a doctor in person. However, telemedicine cannot perform physical treatments, take skin samples, or provide emergency care for severe skin infections.

When to seek urgent in-person care

If you notice severe redness, swelling, pain, or pus-filled bumps, or if your acne suddenly worsens with fever, seek in-person medical care promptly. These signs may indicate an infection that needs immediate treatment.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room for the video visit.
• Test your device’s camera and internet connection beforehand.
• Have a mirror ready to show different skin areas if needed.
• Write down your questions and concerns about acne.
• List any treatments or skin products you have used.
• Take clear photos of your acne to share if video quality is poor.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the skin care advice and treatment plan given during the visit.
• Monitor your skin for any changes or side effects.
• Schedule an in-person visit if your acne worsens or does not improve.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you notice any red flags or new symptoms.
• Keep track of your acne progress with photos or notes.

FAQs

Can a video visit help treat my acne?

A video visit can help your healthcare provider understand your acne and give advice on skin care and treatments. However, some treatments or tests may require an in-person visit.

How should I prepare my skin before the video visit?

You don't need special preparation, but having clean skin and good lighting helps your provider see your acne clearly during the video call.

What if my internet connection is poor during the visit?

If video quality is poor, you can send photos of your acne to your provider before or during the visit to help with assessment.

When should I see a doctor in person for my acne?

If your acne is severe, painful, infected, or not improving with treatment, or if you have red flags like fever or spreading redness, you should see a doctor in person.

Are over-the-counter treatments effective for acne?

Many over-the-counter products can help mild acne. Your healthcare provider can guide you on which products may be suitable for your skin during the video visit.

Sources

1. Acne — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Acne Vulgaris: Clinical Features and Diagnosis — National Library of Medicine.
3. Acne — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Acne: Diagnosis and Treatment — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for education only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have concerns about your health or your acne worsens, please seek care from a healthcare professional in person.