Comparison Between Interactive Internet-based Education and Counseling for the Management of Acne With That of Internet-based Education Alone

Comparison Between Interactive Internet-based Education and Counseling for the Management of Acne With That of Internet-based Education Alone

This study will develop and evaluate the efficacy of an Internet-based education program incorporating virtual coaching. For this study, the virtual coach will consist of online videos aimed at providing acne education and promoting behaviors that support healthy skin. The use of Web-based technologies and virtual coaching in acne-related patient education is novel, and may significantly improve clinical outcomes and quality of life in acne patients. We hypothesize that an interactive Internet-based education and counseling program will be more effective than Internet-based education alone in improving clinical outcomes and quality of life in acne patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of mild to moderate acne vulgaris
• 13 years of age or older at time of assent, may be men or women.
• Able read and understand English.
• Able to hear and see the educational videos.
• Access to computer with Internet access.
• Capable of giving informed consent.
• Not currently using any prescription acne treatment.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Non-English speaking individuals.
• Self-reported exposure to environmental or chemical comedogenic agents
• Women with self-reported hyperandrogenism (e.g., PCOS)
• Women self-reporting current use of any form of specific acne-directed hormonal therapy
• Men or women with self-reported history of Cushing syndrome or congenital adrenal hyperplasia