What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Acne

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for acne, you will usually receive advice on how to care for your skin, possible treatment options, and follow-up plans. Your healthcare provider may suggest over-the-counter products, prescription medications, or lifestyle changes to help manage acne. It's important to follow their instructions carefully and keep track of any changes in your skin. Sometimes, a follow-up visit may be needed to check how well the treatment is working or to adjust it. If your acne worsens or you notice new symptoms, you should contact your healthcare provider promptly. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful way to get care but does not replace in-person visits when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe redness, swelling, or pain around acne lesions — seek in-person care immediately.
• Signs of infection such as pus, warmth, or fever — contact healthcare provider urgently.
• Sudden worsening of acne or new symptoms like skin sores or scarring — arrange prompt medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild to moderate acne symptoms.
• Providing guidance on skin care and lifestyle changes.
• Prescribing common acne medications when appropriate.
• Monitoring treatment progress through follow-up visits.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe or cystic acne requiring specialized procedures.
• Signs of skin infection needing physical examination and possible drainage.
• Emergency skin conditions or allergic reactions.
• Complex cases needing biopsy or advanced dermatology tests.

What to Expect Right After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your appointment, your healthcare provider may send you a summary of the visit, including treatment advice and any prescriptions. You might receive instructions on how to use medications or suggestions for skin care routines. Make sure to ask questions if anything is unclear during the visit.

How to Use Your Acne Treatment Safely

Follow the directions given for any medications or skin care products. Use products gently to avoid irritation. Avoid picking or squeezing pimples, as this can cause scarring or infection. Protect your skin from too much sun, as some acne treatments can make your skin more sensitive.

When to Schedule a Follow-Up

Many people find that acne treatments take several weeks to show improvement. Your provider may recommend a follow-up telemedicine or in-person visit in 6 to 12 weeks to see how your skin is responding. If your acne does not improve or gets worse, contact your healthcare provider sooner.

Lifestyle Tips to Support Acne Care

Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep can support skin health. Avoid touching your face frequently and keep hair clean and away from your skin. Use gentle, non-comedogenic skin care products to avoid clogging pores.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you experience severe acne, pain, swelling, or signs of infection like pus or fever, you should seek in-person medical care promptly. Telemedicine may not be able to fully evaluate or treat these more serious symptoms.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your acne symptoms and how long you have had them.
• Prepare a list of current medications and skin care products you use.
• Have good lighting and a device with a camera for clear skin images.
• Be ready to describe your daily skin care routine and any allergies.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss with your provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan as instructed by your healthcare provider.
• Use medications and skin care products gently and consistently.
• Monitor your skin for improvement or any side effects.
• Schedule follow-up visits as recommended to review progress.
• Contact your provider if you notice worsening symptoms or new concerns.

FAQs

How long does it take to see results from acne treatment?

Acne treatments often take several weeks to show noticeable improvement. It is common to wait 6 to 12 weeks before seeing significant changes. Patience and consistent use of treatments are important.

Can I use over-the-counter products along with prescribed medications?

Some over-the-counter products can be used safely with prescribed treatments, but you should check with your healthcare provider first to avoid irritation or interactions.

What should I do if my acne gets worse after starting treatment?

If your acne worsens or you experience new symptoms like pain, swelling, or infection signs, contact your healthcare provider promptly. They may need to adjust your treatment or recommend in-person care.

Is telemedicine as effective as an in-person visit for acne?

Telemedicine is effective for many acne cases, especially mild to moderate ones. However, some situations require in-person evaluation for the best care, such as severe acne or infections.

Can diet affect my acne?

While diet may influence acne for some people, it is only one factor. Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated can support skin health but should be combined with proper skin care and treatment.

Sources

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

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have concerns about your health or acne symptoms, please consult a healthcare professional directly.