In short
- Dermatologists diagnose and treat conditions of the skin, hair and nails.
- Acne, eczema, psoriasis and many rashes are well suited to a video visit with good photographs.
- A mole that has changed, or a new mark that will not go away, needs an in-person check.
- Swelling of the lips or throat, or trouble breathing with a rash, needs 998.
Common reasons to see a dermatologist
- Acne that has not improved with what you have tried, is causing scars or is affecting your mood.
- Eczema and psoriasis, particularly when treatment is not working or causes side effects.
- Rashes and fungal infections that keep coming back.
- Hair and nail problems, such as sudden hair loss.
- Moles and marks you are not sure about.
Photos are the examination
For skin, the DHA telehealth standard goes further than most: its appendix on common prescribing lists a high resolution photograph or video examination as a mandatory step for skin conditions. The quality of your picture affects the quality of the advice.
- Use daylight, near a window, with no filter or beauty mode.
- Take one photo from further back to show where the problem is, and one close up in sharp focus.
- Put a coin next to the spot if size matters.
- Take photos on different days if the rash comes and goes.
- Remove make-up, and any cream you are able to leave off that day.
The limit of a screen
Video struggles with texture, with depth and with anything that needs a sample. A dermatologist may need a magnified look or a biopsy to be sure of what a mark is, and neither can be done remotely.
See someone in person if you have a mole that has changed size, shape or colour, is painful or itchy, is inflamed, bleeding or crusty, or a new or unusual mark that has not gone away after a few weeks. Finding a melanoma early can make it easier to treat. Telling you to go in person is a good outcome from a video visit, not a failed one.
Skin signs that are urgent
Call 998 if your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly swell, or if a rash comes with difficulty breathing. These can be signs of anaphylaxis. If you have psoriasis, also get emergency care if your skin quickly turns red and you develop white, pus-filled bumps that join together.
Before you book
Write down when it started, what you have put on it, and any new medicines, foods, products or travel around that time. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, tell the doctor, because that changes what is safe to use.
Dermatologists listed on medicAI work at clinics and hospitals licensed by DHA in Dubai or DoH in Abu Dhabi, and each profile shows the specialty and fee. The doctor and their facility provide your care. medicAI lets you find one and join the call from your phone.
Dermatology doctors on medicAI
Dr Madhu Madan, Specialist DermatologistDermatology
Shima Elamin, Specialist derDermatology, DCDCDermatology
Dr. Arundhathi Gurudhayal, GP Aesthetic & Dermatology, WeCARE Medical Center LLCDermatologyThese doctors work with independent licensed facilities. See all doctors.
Questions people ask
Can an online dermatologist prescribe acne treatment?
A dermatologist can prescribe by video when they judge it suitable after assessing you and your photos. Some stronger treatments need closer monitoring, so the doctor may ask you to have tests or see someone in person first.
Can a mole be checked by video?
A doctor can look at a photo and advise you, but a mole that has changed in size, shape or colour, or that itches or bleeds, should be examined in person. Do not rely on a video visit alone to rule out skin cancer.
Are photos a reliable way to diagnose a rash?
Good photos help with many common rashes, and for skin conditions the DHA telehealth standard treats a clear photograph or video examination as a required part of teleprescribing. Some conditions still need a sample or an in-person look before a doctor can be sure.
Sources and further reading
- Acne (NHS)
- Psoriasis (NHS)
- Moles (NHS)
- Anaphylaxis (NHS)
- Standards for Telehealth Services, Version 4 (DHA)
Read next
medicAI is not for emergencies. If someone is seriously ill or injured, call 998 or go to the nearest hospital.
This page is general information. It does not replace advice from a doctor who knows your situation. medicAI is a technology platform. Care is given by independent licensed facilities, who are responsible for it and for its outcome.
