Virtual Dermatology: Expert Skin Care from the Comfort of Home

At Aglow Dermatology, we believe that access to expert skin care shouldn’t be limited by your commute. Whether you are at home, at the office, or traveling within our licensed states, our virtual dermatology services bring Dr. Dina Strachan’s expertise directly to you.

Through our secure teledermatology platform, you can receive the same board-certified medical care we provide in our Manhattan office from our board-certified dermatologist—without the traffic, the waiting room, or the need to take a half-day off work.

What is Virtual Dermatology?

Virtual dermatology (often called telemedicine or teledermatology) is a medical appointment conducted via video call. Instead of sitting in an exam chair, you connect with Dr. Strachan using your smartphone, tablet, or computer.

During a virtual visit, Dr. Strachan can:

• Diagnose common skin conditions like acne, eczema, rosacea, and rashes.

• Evaluate hair loss and scalp disorders.

• Review your current skincare routine.

• Prescribe medications and refill prescriptions.

• Monitor your progress on current treatments.

How is virtual dermatology at Aglow Dermatology different than “app care”?

Not all virtual dermatology services are the same. Many app-based dermatology platforms rely on automated workflows, non-physician reviewers, or limited-scope care designed for high volume rather than medical complexity.

Our virtual dermatology services are physician-led, provided by a board-certified dermatologist, and follow the same clinical standards used in our in-office practice. Virtual visits are used thoughtfully—only when appropriate—and patients are directed to in-person care when a physical exam, procedure, or additional testing is needed.

Is Virtual Dermatology Covered by Insurance?

Yes, in most cases. If you have a medical skin condition (such as acne, a rash, or hair loss) and we accept your insurance plan, your virtual visit is typically covered just like an in-person appointment.

We are an online dermatologist that takes insurance, meaning you get the convenience of digital care with the financial benefits of your health plan.

• Insurances We Accept: We participate with many major carriers, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, United Healthcare, the Empire Plan, and select Medicaid plans (Fidelis, MetroPlus, Molina).

• Co-pays: Standard specialist co-pays and deductibles apply.

• Cosmetic Consultations: Please note that virtual consultations for cosmetic concerns (like anti-aging or discoloration) are generally not covered by insurance.

Where Can Dr. Strachan Do a Teledermatology Visit?

Medical licensing laws require that the patient be physically located in a state where the doctor is licensed or registered at the time of the appointment.

Dr. Strachan is currently licensed to see patients via telemedicine in:

• New York

• Connecticut

• West Virginia

If you live in these states—or are visiting them during your appointment time—we can treat you. We are applying for licenses in more states so check with the office if you don’t see yours here. 

What Setup Do I Need to Do a Virtual Visit?

Getting ready for a teledermatology appointment is simple. You do not need expensive equipment.

To ensure a successful visit, you need:

1. A Device: A smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone.

2. Stable Internet: A strong Wi-Fi or data connection to ensure the video doesn’t freeze.

3. Good Lighting: This is critical. Please sit facing a window or a bright lamp so Dr. Strachan can clearly see your skin condition. Avoid having a bright light behind you, as this creates a shadow.

4. A Quiet Space: A private room where you can discuss your medical history comfortably. If you are driving, pull over and park somewhere safe.

5. No Makeup: If we are evaluating your face, please have clean skin.

6. Privacy: Remember, this is still a visit with a doctor.  Make sure you are in an environment where you have privacy.

Are Online Dermatologists Worth It?

Absolutely—but who you see matters. There is a big difference between an automated app and a real relationship with a board-certified physician.

When you book a virtual visit with Aglow Dermatology, you aren’t just getting a quick fix; you are establishing care with a top-rated physician.

• Expertise: You get Dr. Strachan’s years of Harvard and Yale-educated experience.

• Continuity: We have your medical records and history.

• Safety: We can distinguish between a simple rash and something that requires a biopsy.

Do I Have to Come in for Care?

Not always, but sometimes it is necessary. Virtual dermatology works best for many—but not all—skin, hair, and nail conditions, and we are transparent about when an in-person visit is the safer or more effective choice. Virtual dermatology is used selectively and responsibly and is not a substitute for in-person dermatologic care when a physical exam, procedure, or biopsy is required.

If an in-person visit is required:

• We will arrange for you to come into our Manhattan office (conveniently located in Murray Hill/Midtown East).

• If you are located far from NYC (for example, a virtual patient in West Virginia) and cannot travel to us, Dr. Strachan can help coordinate a referral to a qualified specialist near you for the hands-on portion of your care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I get my prescriptions if I am doing a virtual dermatology visit?

Prescriptions are handled exactly the same way as an in-person visit. Dr. Strachan sends your prescription electronically to the pharmacy of your choice. You can pick it up at your local pharmacy or have it delivered if your pharmacy offers that service.

What conditions are appropriate for virtual dermatology?

Virtual dermatology works best for selected concerns such as stable rashes, acne follow-ups, medication management, certain hair and scalp conditions, and review of submitted images. Conditions that require procedures, biopsies, or full skin examinations are better evaluated in person.

We guide patients honestly toward the type of visit that best serves their medical needs.

Can you treat hair loss virtually?

Yes. But we prefer your first visit to be in person if you don’t already have a confirmed diagnosis. We can,however, examine the pattern of loss via video and discuss your history. If a scalp biopsy or office exam is needed to confirm a diagnosis, we will schedule a brief in-person visit or refer you locally.

What if the video quality isn’t good enough to see my skin?

We recommend taking high-quality photos of your skin condition.

Is my virtual visit private?

Yes. We use a HIPAA-compliant platform that encrypts the video feed. Your privacy is protected just as strictly as it would be inside our office walls. You, too, however, must be in a safe, private location during your visit.

Can I do a virtual visit for a full body skin check?

No. A thorough skin cancer screening requires tactile examination and the use of a dermatoscope to look closely at moles. We recommend doing skin cancer screenings in person in our Manhattan office.

Is this an app?

No.
This is physician-led virtual dermatology, not an app-based or automated service.

Your care is provided by a board-certified dermatologist, using secure telemedicine technology to extend medical care beyond the office when appropriate. There are no algorithm-only diagnoses, chatbot decisions, or anonymous reviewers. Every case is evaluated using the same clinical judgment and standards applied during in-person visits.

Virtual visits are used thoughtfully—as a medical tool—not as a replacement for comprehensive dermatologic care.

Do I need to come into the office?

Sometimes—yes, and we are upfront about that.

Virtual dermatology is ideal for many skin, hair, and nail concerns, but not all conditions can or should be managed remotely. If your condition requires a full skin exam, procedure, biopsy, in-office treatment, or closer evaluation, you will be advised to schedule an in-person visit.

Our priority is safe, appropriate care—not forcing a virtual visit when in-person evaluation is the better option.

Ready to skip the commute?

Get the expertise of our NYC dermatologist without coming to our Manhattan office. Book you virtual dermatology visit here!