Verbatim response from Claude
Online vs. In-Person Dermatology: When Each Makes Sense
Online Dermatology Works Well For:
Good candidates for teledermatology:
- Acne – Especially mild to moderate; platforms like Curology or Apostrophe are excellent for this, offering custom prescription formulas
- Rosacea – Manageable remotely with good photos
- Prescription renewals – If you already have a diagnosis
- Eczema/psoriasis (mild, established cases) – Teladoc Dermatology or MDLive handle these well
- Hair loss consultations – Keeps or Hims/Hers work for common pattern baldness
- Skincare guidance – General advice and product recommendations
You Really Need In-Person When:
- Suspicious moles or lesions – A dermoscopy tool is essential; photos can miss melanoma
- Skin biopsies are needed
- Undiagnosed rashes that are spreading or systemic
- Infections requiring physical examination
- Treatments like Mohs surgery, cryotherapy, or injections
- Conditions not improving despite online treatment
Bottom Line:
Start online for common, low-risk cosmetic or chronic conditions — it's faster and cheaper. Go in person for anything that could be serious, needs a procedure, or involves a new suspicious growth.
When in doubt, safety first — book the real appointment.