Verbatim response from Claude
Online vs. In-Person Dermatology: When Each Makes Sense
Online Dermatology Works Well For:
Straightforward, common conditions:
- Acne (mild to moderate) - Curology and Apostrophe are excellent for custom tretinoin/antibiotic formulas
- Rosacea management
- Prescription renewals you already know work
- Hair loss (androgenic) - Keeps or Hims/Hers handle this well
- Cold sores, minor rashes you can clearly photograph
Good online services to consider:
- Curology – great for acne and anti-aging
- Apostrophe – broader condition coverage, board-certified derms
- Teladoc Dermatology – good if you have insurance coverage
- DermatologistOnCall – faster turnaround for consultations
Go In-Person When You Have:
- Any suspicious mole or lesion – photos cannot replace hands-on skin checks
- Severe or unresponsive acne needing procedures (extractions, cortisone shots)
- Potential skin cancer screening
- Cystic conditions or anything needing biopsy
- Chronic eczema or psoriasis requiring ongoing management
- Anything that hasn't responded to online treatment
Bottom Line
Online is convenient and legitimate for maintenance and common conditions. But when there's any doubt about something unusual on your skin, see someone in person. Skin cancer caught early is the biggest reason not to skip physical exams.