Skip to content
Online dermatology visits, no insurance required. Receive expert skin, hair, and nail care from a board-certified dermatologist.
Log In
Fast diagnosis and treatment, including prescriptions when needed

Treating Acne Online

Acne is a common skin condition caused by clogged pores, excess oil, and bacteria. It can appear as whiteheads, blackheads, nodules, or cystic lesions.  Most acne can be addressed online with a treatment plan, including prescriptions, if needed, from a dermatologist. It's important to address acne early; proactive treatment helps prevent scarring.

young woman examining her acne

What is acne?

More than 50 million Americans have acne.

Acne is the result of clogged pores. Sebum, the oil that keeps skin moisturized, and dead skin cells plug these tiny openings in the skin. When inflamed, blackheads, whiteheads, and other types of pimples form. These can be painful and pus-filled. While it's most common among teenagers, acne can happen to anyone at any age.

How do doctors diagnose acne?

A board-certified dermatologist can determine if a patient has acne and what type of acne it is by looking at the appearance of nodules and where they are located. Different types of acne call for different treatment plans.

Additionally, the dermatologist will need to know:

  • When the breakouts started.
  • What the patient has used to treat their acne.
  • The patient's age.
  • Whether the acne is leaving dark spots or scars.

What causes acne?

Scientists are still trying to understand the underlying factors that lead to breakouts. Hormones most likely play a significant role, explaining why acne is so common in teenagers.

Additional factors include tobacco use, stress, lack of sleep, foods, using comedogenic makeup or skincare products, hair products, supplements, and genetics.

What acne treatments are available online?

DermatologistOnCall doctors may prescribe any medication they feel is clinically appropriate for a particular case of acne. 

Depending on the type and severity of acne, treatment plans may include:

  • Topical retinoids like tretinoin or adapalene
  • Antibiotics like doxycycline, erythromycin, and clindamycin 
  • Benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, salicylic acid.
  • Isotretinoin

Besides medication, what can be done to help clear up acne?

Taking a proactive role in skin health can improve the efficacy of prescription treatments and keep skin healthy after the acne has resolved. 

For best results, patients should follow an acne-friendly skincare routine. This should include a cleanser, sunscreen, and moisturizer. A dermatologist can make recommendations based on skin and acne type.

Incorporating healthy eating habits, and getting plenty of sleep are excellent ways to support any prescribed regimen. 

When should you see a dermatologist for acne?

Acne is a medical condition that often requires treatment by a dermatologist. Here are signs that it's time to see a medical professional about acne.

  • Acne lasts longer than 4 to 6 weeks.
  • Acne doesn't respond to over-the-counter treatments.
  • Acne produces painful cysts or nodules.
  • Acne causes dark spots or scars.
  • Acne disrupts your daily life, making it difficult or uncomfortable to attend work, school, or social events.

Why is it important to start acne treatment early?

Starting acne treatment early is one of the most effective ways to protect skin health and prevent long-term damage.

Early intervention allows for breakout management before they become severe.  When necessary, a dermatologist can prescribe targeted treatments that work more efficiently than over-the-counter products.

Because many prescription acne medications take several weeks to show visible results, beginning treatment as soon as symptoms appear can significantly improve outcomes, shorten the duration of breakouts, and help maintain clearer, healthier skin over time.

Online Dermatology vs In-Person Visits for Acne

DermatologistOnCall offers convenient, affordable acne treatment online.

HSA/FSA-eligible care. No appointment needed. Submit a visit at any time. 

Feature DermatologistOnCall Traditional In-Office Visit
Wait Time <24 hours 1-2 months
Cost $95 or less $220 without insurance
Convenience Anytime Scheduled

 

How DermatologistOnCall Treats Acne

What to expect from your online acne visits

DermatologistOnCall has offered care to patients nationwide for more than a decade. Despite its longtime availiblity, many patients haven't tried care through our asynchronous platform. Here's what to expect from an online visit with one of our board-certified dermatologists:

  • Start by creating an account on the DermatologistOnCall platform.
  • Select a board-certified dermatologist.
  • Choose a pharmacy. Both retail and mail-order pharmacies are available.
  • Enter general health information and provide details about your acne. The more information you enter, the easier it will be for your dermatologists to provide a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
  • Upload 2-9 photos of your acne and submit your visit.
  • Your dermatologist will review your case and respond, typically within 24 hours. All visits are addressed within 48 hours. 
  • You will receive a diagnosis and treatment plan. Any necessary prescriptions will be sent to your pharmacy.
  • Your visit remains open for 30 days for follow-up messaging. 
  • If you need additional care, you can continue to see your online dermatologist for as long as necessary.

Types of Acne We Treat

DermatologistOnCall offers comprehensive care for all types of acne, including:

Hormonal acne Cystic acne Nodular acne
Comedonal acne Inflammatory acne Adult acne
Teen acne Fungal acne Body acne
Acne mechanica Stress acne Acne conglobata

 

Sign up for our newsletter