Acne is one of the most common skin conditions around the world, and it usually begins at puberty. Lumps, nodules, pimples, and cysts can grow in various parts of the body, especially the face, chest, back, and neck. They are mainly caused by clogged pores along with overproduction of sebum (oil) and bacterial growth.
The best line of defense against acne is to visit your dermatologist, but that can be very embarrassing, not to mention the waiting time can be excruciating. With the new app, however, you can get the consultation you need at the comforts of your own home-alone.
The app is called Spruce, developed by Ray Bradford who used to work for Kleiner Perkins before he started to build this app. Unlike other beauty apps, it connects the user to a board-certified dermatologist within 24 hours, who then provides you with the most ideal treatment plan.
Using the app is simple: download it, register, upload your photos showing the areas where your acne is (make sure you're not using any filters), answer a series of questions including where they are appearing and diet, then wait to be connected with a dermatologist. Your treatment program will be readable in the app as well.
According to Bradford, most acne sufferers resort to over-the-counter products that are not really suited for them. There's, of course, the long wait times and many frequent trips to the dermatologist after the first consultation. Spruce hopes to resolve these typical patient issues.
In the meantime, the app provides freedom to dermatologists especially when it comes to scheduling-that is, when and where they want to "see" their patients. Doctors, moreover, can also create electronic prescriptions with their signature using a simple and easy-to-use integrated software. The patient can then show off these prescriptions to his or her local pharmacy.
Currently, the app is available for a flat fee of only $40. So far, it is downloadable in Florida, California, Pennsylvania, and New York.
