Red flags & when to go in person for Acne

Audience: adult

Acne is a common skin condition that often can be managed with home care or through telemedicine visits. However, some signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person. These include severe pain, rapid worsening, or signs of infection. Telemedicine can help with mild to moderate acne by reviewing symptoms, recommending treatments, and providing skin care advice. It cannot replace in-person exams when acne is severe or complicated. Knowing when to seek in-person care helps ensure safe and effective treatment. This guide explains red flags for acne, what telemedicine can and cannot do, and how to prepare for your virtual visit. Always seek urgent care if you experience severe symptoms or sudden changes in your skin condition.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe pain, swelling, or redness around acne lesions — seek urgent in-person care.
• Rapid worsening or spreading of acne, especially with fever — go to a healthcare facility.
• Signs of infection such as pus, warmth, or fever — immediate medical evaluation needed.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild to moderate acne through photos and history.
• Providing advice on skin care routines and over-the-counter treatments.
• Prescribing common acne medications when appropriate.
• Monitoring treatment progress and side effects remotely.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Evaluating severe or infected acne requiring physical examination.
• Performing procedures like drainage of cysts or biopsies.
• Managing complications such as scarring or unusual skin changes.
• Diagnosing other skin conditions that mimic acne without in-person exam.

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin condition that causes pimples, blackheads, and sometimes cysts. It usually appears on the face, chest, or back. Acne happens when hair follicles get clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It often starts in the teenage years but can affect adults too.

When to Use Telemedicine for Acne

Telemedicine can be a good way to get advice for mild or moderate acne. Your healthcare provider can look at pictures, ask about your symptoms, and suggest treatments like over-the-counter products or prescription medicines. They can also guide you on skin care routines and lifestyle changes.

Red Flags: When to See a Provider in Person

Sometimes acne needs an in-person visit. You should seek in-person care if you notice:

In these cases, a physical exam and possibly tests may be needed.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from your telemedicine visit:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your visit, follow your provider's advice carefully. This may include:

If your symptoms worsen or new red flags appear, seek in-person care promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Take clear, well-lit photos of affected skin areas.
• List current symptoms and how long they have lasted.
• Note any treatments or medications you have used.
• Prepare to discuss your skin care habits and lifestyle.
• Ensure a private, quiet space with reliable internet for the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow treatment instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Apply skin care products as recommended.
• Watch for any new or worsening symptoms.
• Schedule follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits as advised.
• Seek immediate care if red flags or severe symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can telemedicine treat all types of acne?

Telemedicine is often suitable for mild to moderate acne. However, severe or infected acne usually requires an in-person visit for proper evaluation and treatment.

What should I do if my acne suddenly worsens?

If your acne rapidly worsens, especially with pain, swelling, or fever, seek in-person medical care promptly as this may indicate infection or other complications.

How can I prepare my skin for a telemedicine visit?

Take clear photos of your acne in good lighting, avoid applying heavy makeup before the visit, and be ready to discuss your skin care routine and any treatments you've tried.

Are prescription acne medications available through telemedicine?

Yes, healthcare providers may prescribe certain acne medications during a telemedicine visit if they determine it is appropriate based on your symptoms and photos.

When should I follow up after a telemedicine visit for acne?

Follow-up depends on your treatment plan and response. Your provider will advise when to check in again, typically within weeks to monitor progress and adjust treatment if needed.

Sources

1. Acne: Overview — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Acne Vulgaris — National Library of Medicine.
3. Acne — Mayo Clinic.
4. Acne: Diagnosis and Treatment — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine guidance cannot replace in-person evaluation when needed. If you experience severe symptoms or red flags, seek immediate medical attention.