Acne treatment online
Breakouts that don't respond to drugstore products? A licensed provider can build an acne plan with you on video – including prescription creams and medicine when you need them.
- Licensed providers
- Same-day visits, usually
- Video or phone
Get started Members: request a visit
Written by the CheckMD care team · Updated
Acne is common – and treatable
Acne happens when pores clog with oil and dead skin and bacteria cause inflammation. Hormones, stress, some medicines and genes all play a part. It shows up as blackheads and whiteheads, red pimples, and sometimes deeper, painful bumps that can leave marks.
How an online acne visit works
- Show your skin on video in good light, or share clear photos
- Tell your provider what you have tried, how long you used it and what happened
- Mention any medicines, pregnancy plans or birth control
Your provider recommends a routine and, if needed, prescription treatment – for example a retinoid or antibiotic cream, or tablets for more stubborn acne. Most treatments need 8 to 12 weeks to show their full effect, so follow-up visits are part of the plan.
Medicines your provider may prescribe
- Topical retinoids such as tretinoin or adapalene
- Benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin gel
- Doxycycline tablets for more widespread acne; spironolactone for hormonal acne in women
Only when it is right for you: your provider checks your symptoms, allergies, other medicines and health history first. Prescriptions go to the pharmacy you choose.
What you can do at home right now
- Wash twice a day with a gentle cleanser
- Use "non-comedogenic" products
- Don't pick or squeeze
- Give a new routine 8 to 12 weeks
When to see a dermatologist
- Deep, painful cysts or nodules, or acne that is leaving scars
- Acne that hasn't improved after a few months of treatment
- Sudden severe acne in adulthood, or acne with irregular periods or unusual hair growth
Your provider can help you decide when a specialist is the right next step.
Get help in three steps
Request a visit
Tell us what is going on and choose video or phone.
Talk to a provider
Usually the same day, often within hours.
Start feeling better
Get your care plan and any prescription at your pharmacy.
Questions about acne treatment
How long until I see results?
Usually 6 to 12 weeks. Skin can look a little worse at first with some treatments – your provider will tell you what to expect.
Can I get isotretinoin online?
Isotretinoin needs a special monitoring program with regular tests, so it is prescribed by a dermatologist, not through a quick online visit.
Does food cause acne?
For some people, sugary foods and dairy can make acne worse. It is worth noticing patterns, but diet alone rarely causes acne.
How much does an online visit cost?
Visits are part of your CheckMD membership – one yearly price, and you don't need insurance. You pay the pharmacy for any medicine. See the current plans on our pricing page or read about telehealth without insurance.
Can I be seen today?
Most visits happen the same day. Request a visit, choose video or phone and pick the earliest time.
What if I don't get better?
Book a follow-up visit. Your provider can adjust your treatment or tell you where to be seen in person. If you get worse quickly, don't wait – get urgent care.
Feeling unwell? Talk to a provider today.
See membership plans