Red flags & when to go in person for Acne

Audience: pediatric

Acne is a common skin condition in children and teens that causes pimples, blackheads, and sometimes cysts. Many cases can be managed with good skin care and over-the-counter treatments. Telemedicine can help by providing advice, reviewing symptoms, and recommending treatments without needing to visit a doctor in person. However, some signs mean it’s important to see a healthcare provider face-to-face. These include severe pain, swelling, or redness that spreads quickly, acne that causes scarring or deep cysts, or if the acne suddenly worsens or does not improve with treatment. This guide explains when telemedicine can help and when in-person care is needed. It also lists red flags to watch for and offers tips to prepare for a telemedicine visit. Remember, this information is for education only and not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe pain, swelling, or spreading redness around acne lesions — seek in-person care immediately.
• Signs of infection such as pus, warmth, fever, or feeling unwell — urgent medical evaluation needed.
• Development of large, deep cysts or nodules that do not improve — arrange for in-person assessment.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate acne assessment and management advice.
• Reviewing skin condition via photos or video.
• Recommending over-the-counter treatments and skin care routines.
• Monitoring response to treatment in follow-up visits.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe acne with signs of infection or systemic symptoms.
• Large cysts or nodules needing physical examination or procedures.
• Skin conditions that mimic acne requiring biopsy or specialized tests.
• Emergency situations such as rapidly spreading redness or fever.

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin condition that happens when hair follicles get clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It often appears as pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads on the face, chest, or back. Acne is very common in children and teenagers because of changes in hormones during puberty. It usually isn’t serious but can affect how someone feels about their skin.

When Can Telemedicine Help?

Telemedicine can be useful for mild to moderate acne. A healthcare provider can look at pictures or video of the skin, ask questions about symptoms, and suggest treatments like gentle skin care or over-the-counter medicines. They can also give advice on lifestyle changes that may help. Telemedicine is convenient and can save time for families.

Red Flags: When to See a Doctor In Person

Some signs mean you should see a healthcare provider face-to-face right away or soon after a telemedicine visit:

If any of these happen, in-person care is important for proper treatment.

How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit

To get the most out of a telemedicine visit about acne:

What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit?

After the visit, you may receive advice on skin care routines or prescriptions for medicines. Follow the instructions carefully. If your symptoms get worse or you notice any red flags, seek in-person care promptly. Sometimes a follow-up telemedicine appointment may be scheduled to check progress.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit area for your telemedicine visit.
• Clean your skin gently before the appointment.
• Take clear photos of affected skin areas if possible.
• List any treatments or skin care products you have used.
• Prepare to describe your symptoms and any changes in your skin.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and skin care advice given by your provider.
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Schedule a follow-up telemedicine or in-person visit if recommended.
• Seek immediate in-person care if red flags develop.
• Maintain gentle skin care and avoid picking or squeezing pimples.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose my acne?

Telemedicine can often help healthcare providers assess your acne based on photos and descriptions. However, some cases may require an in-person visit for a full examination or tests.

What treatments can be recommended through telemedicine?

Providers can suggest over-the-counter products, skin care routines, and sometimes prescribe medications through telemedicine, depending on your symptoms.

When should I stop using a treatment and see a doctor?

If your acne worsens, does not improve after several weeks of treatment, or if you develop pain, swelling, or signs of infection, you should see a healthcare provider in person.

Is acne contagious?

No, acne is not contagious. It is caused by clogged pores, bacteria on the skin, and hormonal changes, not by germs passed from person to person.

Can diet affect acne?

Some studies suggest that certain foods may influence acne in some people, but this varies. A balanced diet and good hydration are generally recommended.

Sources

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

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have concerns about your health or symptoms, please seek care from a healthcare provider.