Acne and Cyst Treatment in San Francisco, CA

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About Acne/Cyst Treatment

AviClear is considered a ‘universal skin type laser’ which means we can safely and effectively treat all skin types and colors.Seventeen million Americans currently suffer from acne, making it the most common skin disease in the country. Also known as acne vulgaris, acne is a skin condition that most of us have experienced at some point in our lives.

It appears on the surface of the skin in the form of blocked pores (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples, and deeper lumps (cysts and nodules). Three factors contribute to acne formation: overproduction of oil, irregular shedding of dead skin cells within the pore, and buildup of bacteria. Acne occurs when the oil produced by sebaceous glands does not reach the surface of the skin, but becomes trapped in the tiny follicles of the skin. This microscopic plug may close off the pore, causing the follicle wall to bulge, which creates a whitehead. If the pore remains open, the top surface of plug may become darkened, causing a blackhead. In both cases, the bacteria, P. acnes thrive in clogged follicles.

When this bacteria leaks out of the follicle into the surrounding tissue, the lesions become inflamed resulting in pimples, pustules, cysts, and larger nodules. At Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology, our team has the knowledge and experience to help you achieve clear, glowing skin.

FIRST FDA-APPROVED LASER TO TREAT ACNE

We now have an a drug-free option for acne treatment: the AviClear laser. AviClear is considered a ‘universal skin type laser’ which means we can safely and effectively treat all skin types and colors. It can be especially beneficial for those looking for an alternative to more traditional courses of oral antibiotics or Accutane. Curious if you're a candidate for AviClear? Book a consult with one of our board-certified dermatologists or PA-C to get started. 

Best Candidates

A “flare-up” of acne can occur for a number of different reasons, including hormonal fluctuations associated with puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. In addition, certain medications and drugs, as well as stress and a poor diet can also cause acne. Once the causes, of acne are diagnosed, a proper treatment plan can be established. No matter what is causing your acne, we can help you have clearer skin.

Teenage Acne

No one has more trouble with acne and cysts than teenagers. Blemishes on the face can potentially lead to long-term self-esteem problems. While there are plenty of over-the-counter acne medications and treatments, these do not take into account the root causes of acne (hormones, genetics, certain medications, oil-based makeup, or stress). Instead of wasting money on ineffective over-the-counter treatments, teens can get better results with the expertise of one of our board-certified dermatologists or our physician’s assistant. Our medical professionals will assess your skin and develop a customized treatment plan to treat your acne. 

I have been seeing Dr. Austin for almost 3 years now for acne scars treatment and my skin is totally transformed.  People think I look at least 10 years younger than my age. I would say that my acne scars have been improved by 80% after multiple sessions of tca cross and laser genesis.  Most of my ice pick scars have filled in.  Recently I also had Fraxel laser to improve the shallow scars , black spots, and overall skin texture.  Dr. Austin is amazing and she cares about her patient.  She would call me after the procedure to make sure that I was doing fine.  She also responded very quickly on all my questions related to post-procedure.  Now my skin has been improved further after fraxel laser.  I will continue to see Dr. Austin for other treatments to keep my skin young and heathy so I don’t age.  Thank you Dr. Austin and her team.  I also wanted to express my appreciation for Mary Krempa who has been doing my laser hair removal for.  Now that my skin is so soft.  I am happy with the results.

L.C. Yelp

I started seeing Dr. Welsh in my early 30’s for adult acne. She taught me proper skincare and set me up with the best products. I am checking in yearly to keep products on point with current skin changes. As I age, I need to choose to come in Every 4-6 months for botox & filler. Plus an occasional photo facial and laser hair removal treatments.  It is now 20 years later I honestly could pass for ten years younger than I am. Dr. Welch is magical, in my opinion. If you ask her a question, you are going to get an honest, educated answer. I would not trust anyone else.

T.Q. Yelp

This is my first time seeing a cosmetic dermatologist at 26 yrs old for acne scarring on my cheeks, jawline and some on my temples that I’ve had for well over 8 yrs. I’ve always been super self conscious about it and I think have stopped myself from doing things that I enjoy due to it. I was able to book an appt with Dr. He and he was very reassuring. I might’ve been too comfortable to the point I didn’t ask all the questions I now have as someone hesitant to move forward with any kind of treatment, due to the trauma of previous non cosmetic dermatologist. As a mixed (Asian & black) individual, I’ve always been skeptical about how my skin would be treated since I don’t solely have genes of one particular race (which I’m uncertain if it’s even a factor). With that in mind, I really like that he went over treatment options that would be most beneficial for my skin with minimal to no side effects.I plan to move forward with subcision to get the ball rolling for my scars. I was prescribed products that were pretty pricy. $700 in total with the consultation fee. I also asked about the pricing of each treatment that may be best for me. I don’t think I’m desperate enough to cash out on anything for the sake of my skin without extensive research and consultation but I feel, and from previous reviews I’ve read, Dr. He is highly knowledgeable, takes his patients into consideration and i don’t think this will be for naught. If I know I’m in good hands I will be sure to return. I’m very anxious but very excited to finally give my skin the healing it deserves. So far Dr. He gets 5 stars from me and I’m looking forward to being under his care in the near future. I’ll follow up with this review then :).

M.G. Yelp

This review is long overdue... I have been seeing Dr. Andrea Hui Austin for the past seven years and she is the BEST! I’m a perfectionist and she addresses all of my skin concerns with skill and compassion. I don’t even mind driving up from Los Angeles to see her because she is the only person I trust with my face. She has treated me for and practically erased all of my acne, fine lines and melasma. Thank you, Dr. Austin and all of the sweet staff at BACD!

K.M. Yelp

I have been seeing Dr. Austin for 4 years now. I initially saw her when I was experiencing some difficult to treat acne in my early 20s. She listened to my concerns and really educated me on proper skin care. Since then she has continued to help provide new products/recommendations based on my needs at that time. I have also been seeing her for filler and botox treatments for the past two years. She has always listened to what I wanted and given me incredible results. She keeps things natural and really has an amazing eye for the face and facial structure. Beyond her work, she is a really incredible doctor. Her bedside manner is unparalleled and she is always evidence based in her practice. She is a beautiful person who works hard to help others feel beautiful. 11/10 would recommend.

A.S. Yelp

87

Total Reviews

4.9

Average Rating

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What to Expect

-Research shows that over-the-counter ointments are not proven to effectively treat severe acne. Our dermatology office offers many treatment options to control and manage acne and clear its symptoms.

For milder cases of acne, prescription topicals that contain salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, tretinoin, and/or spironolactone can help. We compound prescription-strength acne products right here in our office, so there is no need to go to the pharmacy. There are also oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline, minocycline, or tetracycline that may clear up the skin. For more severe cases of cystic acne, our prescribers may recommend a course of Isotretinoin (Accutane). Our team is experienced with the FDA-mandated iPledge program and are able to accommodate all of the requirements of the program.

In addition to topical and oral prescriptions, microdermabrasion treatments, such as HydrafacialMD or DiamondGlow can help clear up skin and prevent further breakouts by deep cleaning the pores and exfoliating the skin. Laser treatments can help reduce redness, scarring and and hyperpigmentation. Chemical peels and microneedling may also help depending on the type of acne. Once the patient’s acne is clear, we have several cosmetic options to diminish acne scarring including the Fraxel re:pair skin resurfacing laser and the Candela Vbeam Perfecta laser. 

Other Considerations

Our patients who have the best results closely follow their recommended skin care regimen and treatment plan. At Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology, we have found that the key to clear skin is consistent use of recommended prescription and cosmetic products and regular follow up appointments with one of our dermatologists or our physician’s assistant. The great news is that with our help plus your dedication, you can have acne-free skin! 

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About Us

Treat Your Acne Today

We truly believe everyone can have better skin. Stop suffering from painful and embarrassing acne and call our office today to schedule an acne consultation. We will provide a thorough skin analysis and create a tailored treatment plan to help clear up your complexion as quickly as possible.

*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.