Frequently asked questions

First Derm is an online dermatology service that provides quick, expert, and confidential evaluations of skin conditions by board-certified dermatologists. It operates through its website and mobile applications, available on both iOS and Android platforms.

Users can submit photos and descriptions of their skin concerns without the need to register or subscribe, ensuring that no personal identifiable information (PII) is revealed. This anonymity allows users to receive professional insights while maintaining complete privacy.

Our research and peer review scientific research has shown that we can help 70% of users to get an answer to their skin concern and self-treat, the other 30% are advised to see a doctor in person for further tests, biopsy to get a diagnosis and a treatment plan. You can read more here

Through the First Derm website or mobile app, users can follow these steps to complete a consultation:

1. Capture Photos: Take two clear photos of the affected skin area—one close-up and one overview.
2. Provide Details: Add a description of symptoms and relevant medical history.
3. Submit Case: Pay a one-time consultation fee securely without needing to register, ensuring anonymity.
4. Receive Evaluation: A board-certified dermatologist reviews your case and delivers an assessment, typically within hours.

First Derm’s dermatologists are board-certified medical professionals specializing in evaluating and managing skin, hair, and nail concerns. They have completed:

1. Medical Education: Earning a medical degree (MD or DO) from an accredited medical school.
2. Residency Training: At least three years of specialized dermatology training through an accredited residency program.
3. Rigorous Certification: Passing comprehensive board certification exams from recognized organizations like the American Board of Dermatology (ABD).
4. Ongoing Learning: Staying up to date with advancements through continuous education and periodic recertification.

Once you submit your case, you will receive a confirmation with a unique case number. This acts as your receipt and should be kept for future reference. All cases are securely stored and protected on our servers.

You will be notified via push notification or email once your query has been answered. You can then view the response on the home screen of our app or visit our View Case page and enter your unique case number to access your case.

If you have blocked push notifications, you can manually check the status in the app or use the View Case page.

While First Derm provides expert evaluations for a wide range of skin concerns, there are instances where an in-person visit to a dermatologist is necessary for further evaluation or treatment. This is typically recommended when:

1. The Condition Requires Diagnostic Tests:
   Certain conditions, like persistent rashes, unexplained skin lesions, or suspicious moles, may require biopsies, blood tests, or imaging that can only be performed in a clinical setting.
   • Example: A mole with irregular borders and changing colors may need a biopsy to rule out melanoma.
2. Advanced Treatment Is Needed:
   For some skin conditions, specialized treatments such as laser therapy, cryotherapy, or surgical intervention may be required.
   • Example: Severe acne scars may benefit from laser resurfacing, which cannot be administered remotely.
3. Urgent or Severe Skin Issues:
   Cases involving rapidly spreading infections, severe allergic reactions, or significant skin trauma often need immediate attention in person.
   • Example: A rapidly spreading rash accompanied by fever might indicate a serious condition like cellulitis, which requires urgent care.
4. Long-Term Monitoring and Follow-Up:
   Chronic skin conditions, such as psoriasis or eczema, may need ongoing assessment and personalized adjustments to treatment plans.
   • Example: A patient with psoriasis might require periodic evaluation to determine the efficacy of biologic treatments.
5. Unclear or Complex Cases:
   If a skin condition presents with atypical symptoms or does not respond to initial recommendations, an in-person visit allows for closer examination and collaboration with other specialists if needed.
   • Example: A persistent rash unresponsive to topical treatments could require a thorough allergen patch test.

No, we do not write prescriptions at this time. Studies have shown that it is best medical practice to see a doctor in person in case of side effects. Please contact your local dermatologist to follow up and see the progress of your prescription medicine.

To protect the user’s anonymity, we do not disclose contact information of our users or our doctors. Please contact [email protected] if you have any questions, comments or concerns regarding your case.

In the US:

• $34.95 – 48 hour response
• $49.95 – 24 hour response
• $69.99 – 8 hour response

In Europe:

• €19.99 – 48 hour response
• €30.99 – 24 hour response
• €54.99 – 8 hour response

Data usage fees from your wireless service provider may apply.

Our doctors always strive to give users the best possible medical information from the information they are given. You will receive an answer; however, our doctors may be less certain if the provided images are blurry or out of focus.

iPhone: We accept iTunes, credit card and PayPal.

Android: We accept Google checkout, credit card and PayPal.

Web application: We accept credit card and PayPal.

Yes. We do not collect any personally identifiable information like name, phone number, e-mail, IP adress, geo location, only images and your text description. Your privacy is valued and protected. There is no registration or account creation.

Your case will be kept on record for 10 years: Case number, dates, time, picture, text, the response from our doctor, and which doctor replied. Non identifiable may be used in research literature, conferences and machine learning to improve our user experience and service.

Yes. If you would like to receive a physical copy of your processed case, go here and enter your case number and print out as a PDF file. https://firstderm.com/view-my-case/

We are committed to providing high-quality, professional service to all of our users and appreciate your feedback. If something goes wrong, please send us an email to [email protected] with your unique case number, submission date and time and we’ll get in touch with you shortly.

First Derm is operated by iDoc24 Inc, a communications platform company founded by Alexander Borve, MD. iDoc24 Inc has a medical board and other expert advisors. The information provided to users comes directly from independent board-certified dermatologists. We do not create a patient doctor relationship. The service is information only for you to investigate further or take timely next steps to improve your skin concern.

Yes. We take HSA and FSA insurance.