Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, but it can still cause lasting scars, pain, and frustration.

In the [Bay Area], many patients wait weeks or months to see a dermatologist. With Tono Health, you can connect with board-certified dermatologists who specialize in acne treatment — often within days — all through secure telehealth visits.

Understanding Acne

What is Acne?
Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting people of all ages but especially teenagers and young adults. It occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. This leads to blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or deeper painful cysts and nodules.

Types of Acne

• Comedonal acne: blackheads and whiteheads caused by blocked pores.

• Inflammatory acne: red, swollen pimples that may feel tender.

• Cystic/nodular acne: severe, deep lesions that can cause scarring if untreated.

Who Gets Acne

• Teenagers during puberty due to hormone changes.

• Adults in their 20s, 30s, and beyond, often linked to stress, hormones, or medications.

• People of all skin types and tones, with differences in how acne shows up and in the risk of scarring or pigmentation.

Risk Factors

• Hormonal changes (puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy)

• Family history or genetics

• Diet and lifestyle factors (high-glycemic foods, stress, lack of sleep)

• Certain medications (steroids, some seizure or psychiatric medications)

• Use of oily skin products or heavy cosmetics

Why Early Treatment Matters
Acne isn’t just a cosmetic concern. Severe or persistent acne can cause:

• Permanent scarring if cysts and nodules are untreated.

• Dark spots or pigmentation changes, especially in skin of color.

• Emotional impact, including anxiety, social withdrawal, and lowered self-confidence.

Early, effective treatment guided by a dermatologist can reduce breakouts, prevent scarring, and help restore confidence.

Challenges in finding Acne care in [variable]

• High demand for dermatology services with limited availability

• Wait times: average 6–12 weeks to see in-person dermatologists in upstate NY

• Some patients rely on urgent care or primary care, which may not offer advanced acne treatment

• Travel burden for patients in surrounding counties outside Albany proper

Treatment and care Options for Acne in [___]

• Local in-person care: Dermatology departments at Albany Medical Center and St. Peter’s Health Partners provide acne care, but often with long wait times.

• Supportive care: Primary care may prescribe basic topical or oral treatments but may not offer full dermatology support.

• Teledermatology with Tono Health (core CTA)

  • Licensed dermatologists

  • Virtual diagnosis, prescription medications (topical/oral), treatment for resistant acne

  • Guidance on skincare routines, lifestyle, and scar prevention

  • Coordination with local providers if in-person procedures (e.g., extractions, lasers) are required

• Meet our doctors Our board-certified dermatologists specialize in acne and complex inflammatory skin conditions. Each provider has a strong background in treating persistent acne for all skin types and works closely with patients to create effective, evidence-based treatment plans. Enjoy next-day virtual visits and insurance coverage from major NY plans.

Why Telehealth Works for Acne in Albany
Faster access to care, avoiding long delays for appointments

• Ability to adjust medications promptly to prevent flare-ups

• Prescriptions sent directly to local Albany pharmacies

• Coordination with local health systems (Albany Med, St. Peter’s, Ellis) if in-person escalation is required

How do dermatologists diagnose acne?

If you have acne, your doctor will diagnose you by looking at your skin and asking you questions about your breakouts.