How to Get an Acne Prescription Online in Ontario (No Doctor Needed)

If you have mild acne, you don't need to wait weeks for a doctor to get prescription-strength treatment in Ontario. A licensed pharmacist can assess your acne online and, when appropriate, prescribe treatment - free with a valid Ontario health card.

What a pharmacist can treat

Ontario's minor ailments program covers mild acne - the everyday whiteheads, blackheads and small red bumps most people get. A pharmacist can prescribe topical treatments (for example, prescription-strength topical retinoids or antibacterials) suited to your skin and history.

When you'll be referred to a dermatologist or doctor

Severe or widespread acne - large painful lumps (nodules or cysts), or acne covering large areas - is beyond a pharmacist's minor-ailment scope and needs a physician, who may consider oral medication. The assessment screens for this, as well as acne that started suddenly with other symptoms, or bumps that might actually be something other than acne (such as rosacea).

How it works

1. Start the acne assessment - a short questionnaire about your skin, history and any medications.
2. A licensed Ontario pharmacist reviews it, usually within a day.
3. If appropriate, they prescribe treatment and send it to your pharmacy, with guidance on how to use it.

It's free with an Ontario health card, or $30 without. No family doctor, referral, or appointment needed.

See what we treat and start a free assessment →

Pharmly is operated by Citrus Pharmacy, accredited by the Ontario College of Pharmacists (OCP #306740). A prescription is never guaranteed - a pharmacist prescribes only when it is clinically appropriate. Not for emergencies: call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department for urgent symptoms.