Adult Acne Treatment in Texas

MD-only online acne evaluation for adults in Texas with guideline-based treatment for mild to moderate acne, acne flares, and maintenance care. $49 flat-fee video visit, no insurance required.

Adult acne is common and often driven by clogged pores and inflammation. TeleDirectMD focuses on safe, evidence-based topical therapy and clear screening for situations that need in-person dermatology care.

$49 flat-fee MD-only care No insurance required Available in 25+ states Secure video visits
  • Acne type assessment: comedonal vs inflammatory
  • Topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, topical antibiotics when appropriate
  • Maintenance plans and irritation management
  • Adults only (18+)
Clinician: Parth Bhavsar, MD Last reviewed: 01/17/26 Texas (TX)

What Is Adult Acne?

Adult acne is a chronic inflammatory skin condition driven by clogged pores, excess oil, bacteria that live on the skin, and inflammation. It can show up as blackheads and whiteheads (comedones), red bumps (papules), pustules, or deeper tender nodules. Stress, certain skin products, friction, sweating, and hormonal shifts can worsen acne.

TeleDirectMD treats adult acne in Texas with a practical plan: reduce clogged pores, control inflammation, and protect the skin barrier. Results take time, and most regimens need consistent use for several weeks.

Acne Symptoms and Red Flags

TeleDirectMD evaluates acne severity, distribution, triggers, pregnancy status, and skin sensitivity, then recommends a regimen that is realistic and safe.

Symptom or pattern What it suggests Telehealth appropriate? Red flag requiring urgent in-person care
Blackheads or whiteheads with mild redness Comedonal or mild inflammatory acne Often yes None, unless severe swelling or infection signs
Pustules on face, chest, or back Inflammatory acne Often yes Rapid spreading redness, fever, or severe pain
Deep tender nodules or cysts More severe acne, scarring risk Sometimes, may need dermatology Severe facial swelling, eye involvement, or systemic symptoms
Acne with irregular periods or new facial hair Possible hormonal contribution Sometimes Severe symptoms suggesting endocrine issue, or rapid virilization
Rash with scaling, burning, or itching more than pimples Dermatitis or rosacea more likely Often yes Eye pain, vision changes, or severe facial swelling
Pregnancy or trying to conceive Medication restrictions apply Yes with careful selection Any severe reaction to a new product

Conditions That Can Mimic Acne

Some rashes look like acne but require different treatment. Your TeleDirectMD physician differentiates based on appearance, symptoms, and triggers.

Rosacea

Central facial redness and sensitivity, often without blackheads. May flare with heat, alcohol, or spicy foods.

Folliculitis

Pustules centered on hair follicles. May worsen with friction, shaving, sweating, or hot tubs.

Perioral Dermatitis

Small bumps around mouth or nose, often triggered by topical steroids or heavy creams.

Contact Dermatitis

Itchy, irritated rash from skin products, masks, helmets, or occupational exposures.

When Adult Acne Can Be Managed Through Telehealth

TeleDirectMD is best for adults with mild to moderate acne, acne flares, or maintenance needs who do not have severe nodulocystic disease or concerning symptoms.

When a Video Visit Is Appropriate

  • Adult 18+ with comedones, papules, or pustules on face or trunk.
  • Need help choosing a regimen that balances effectiveness and irritation control.
  • No fever, rapidly spreading redness, or severe facial swelling.
  • Able to share clear photos if requested.
  • Physically located in Texas at the time of the visit.

Red Flags Requiring In-Person or ER Care

  • Rapidly spreading redness, warmth, severe pain, or fever.
  • Eye involvement, vision changes, or severe facial swelling.
  • Deep cystic acne with significant scarring or distress, may need dermatology.
  • Severe medication reaction including hives, swelling, or trouble breathing.
  • New concerning systemic symptoms.

How TeleDirectMD Treats Adult Acne in Texas

Acne treatment works best when it is simple and consistent. Most patients see meaningful improvement after 6 to 12 weeks of adherence, with earlier improvement in new inflammatory lesions.

Core Topical Plan

  • Gentle cleanser and non-comedogenic moisturizer.
  • Benzoyl peroxide to reduce inflammatory lesions and resistance risk.
  • Topical retinoid to prevent clogged pores and improve texture.

Inflammation Control

  • Topical clindamycin may be used short-term with benzoyl peroxide.
  • Spot treatment guidance and irritation reduction strategies.
  • Trigger review: friction, sweat, occlusive products.

When In-Person Care Helps

  • Severe cystic acne, scarring, or need for procedures.
  • Consideration of systemic options that require closer monitoring.
  • Unclear diagnosis or overlapping dermatitis.

Medication Table for Adult Acne

These are common adult regimens. Your TeleDirectMD physician individualizes based on skin type, sensitivity, and pregnancy considerations.

Medication Dose Duration When used
Adapalene 0.1% gel, apply thin layer nightly 8 to 12 weeks, then maintenance First-line topical retinoid for comedonal and mild inflammatory acne.
Tretinoin 0.025% to 0.05% cream, apply thin layer nightly 8 to 12 weeks, then maintenance Alternative topical retinoid. May be more irritating, start gradually.
Benzoyl peroxide 2.5% to 5% wash or gel, use 1 time daily 8 to 12 weeks, then maintenance Reduces inflammatory lesions and helps prevent antibiotic resistance.
Clindamycin topical 1% gel or lotion, apply 1 time daily Up to 12 weeks Inflammatory acne, typically paired with benzoyl peroxide.
Azelaic acid 15% to 20%, apply 1 to 2 times daily 8 to 12 weeks, then maintenance Acne plus post-inflammatory discoloration, sensitive skin option.

TeleDirectMD does not prescribe controlled substances for acne visits. If severe nodulocystic acne is present, in-person dermatology is often the safest next step.

Home Care and What to Expect

Acne regimens often cause mild dryness early. The goal is consistent use without damaging the skin barrier.

Home Care Checklist

  • Use a gentle cleanser, avoid harsh scrubs.
  • Moisturize daily, even if skin feels oily.
  • Start retinoids every other night for 2 weeks if sensitive, then nightly.
  • Use sunscreen daily, especially with retinoids.

When to Recheck

  • No improvement after 10 to 12 weeks of consistent use.
  • Significant irritation, burning, or worsening rash.
  • Deep painful cysts or new scarring.
  • New pregnancy or trying to conceive.

TeleDirectMD Adult Acne Care: What to Expect

TeleDirectMD provides MD-only virtual urgent care for adults for $49 flat-fee video visits in 25+ states. Your physician reviews acne type and severity, triggers, medication safety, and pregnancy precautions. When appropriate, we prescribe evidence-based topical therapy and provide a simple regimen and follow-up thresholds. No controlled substances are prescribed.

Adult Acne FAQs for Texas

Can TeleDirectMD treat adult acne online in Texas?
Yes. Many adults with mild to moderate acne can be treated safely by video in Texas with a topical regimen and clear safety screening.
How long does it take for acne treatment to work?
Most patients see improvement over 6 to 12 weeks with consistent use. Early dryness is common and can be managed with moisturizer and gradual ramp-up.
Do I need antibiotics for acne?
Not always. Many adults improve with topical retinoids and benzoyl peroxide. If a topical antibiotic is used, it is typically time-limited and paired with benzoyl peroxide.
Will benzoyl peroxide bleach clothes or towels?
It can. Wash hands after application, let products dry fully, and use white towels or older linens if needed.
Is tretinoin safe if I am pregnant or trying to conceive?
Topical retinoids are generally avoided during pregnancy. Tell your physician if you are pregnant or trying to conceive so safer options can be chosen.
What if my acne is mostly on my back or chest?
Truncal acne is common. Wash-based benzoyl peroxide and topical retinoids can help, and we tailor instructions for larger surface areas.
Can adult acne be hormonal?
Yes. Acne flares around the jawline or around menstrual cycles can suggest a hormonal component. We review patterns and recommend next steps.
What are signs I should see a dermatologist in person?
Deep painful cysts, scarring, severe widespread acne, or lack of improvement after consistent therapy often warrant dermatology evaluation.
Can I pop pimples?
It is better to avoid picking or popping because it increases inflammation, scarring risk, and discoloration. We can recommend safer spot care.
Does TeleDirectMD prescribe controlled substances for acne?
No. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe controlled substances for acne visits.