Acne & Acne Scar Treatment in Petaluma & Hercules

Understanding Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting both teenagers and adults. While breakouts are often associated with adolescence, many adults continue to experience persistent or recurring acne well into their 30s, 40s, and beyond. Acne can cause more than just physical irritation—it can significantly affect confidence, self-esteem, and overall quality of life. At Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area, our board-certified dermatologists, PAs, and estheticians specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing acne, as well as addressing long-term scarring associated with acne. With advanced treatment options tailored to each patient’s skin type and needs, we provide comprehensive solutions for residents of Petaluma, Hercules, and surrounding Bay Area communities.

What Causes Acne

Acne develops when hair follicles become inflamed and clogged with excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria. Several factors can contribute to this process:

Hormonal changes: Fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, or menstrual cycles.
Genetics: A family history of acne is present in 50%-90% of cases.
Stress: Heightens inflammation and oil production.
Occlusive clothing: Such as hats and headbands; these can exacerbate breakouts.
Diet: High-glycemic foods and dairy may trigger breakouts in some individuals.
Skincare products and medications: Comedogenic or oily products can clog pores, and, in rare cases, prescription medications such as prednisone, lithium, and anticonvulsants.

Understanding the underlying cause and type of acne is crucial for effective treatment. Our dermatologists conduct a thorough evaluation, taking into account both medical history and lifestyle factors. Unlike over-the-counter remedies that often provide temporary relief, our evidence-based treatments are specifically designed to target the root cause, reducing breakouts, preventing new lesions, and protecting against long-term scarring.

Types of Acne & Symptoms

Acne appears in different forms, which may overlap in the same patient:

Comedonal Acne: blackheads and whiteheads.
Inflammatory Acne: red, swollen papules and pustules.
Nodulocystic Acne: large, painful lumps or nodules beneath the skin.
Acne Fulminans: a severe variant with painful, ulcerating lesions and, rarely, fever and joint pain.
Acne Scarring: permanent marks from untreated or severe acne. There are different subtypes, depending on the nature of the scar that is formed, including rolling, boxcar, ice pick, and hypertrophic scars.

Common areas affected include the face, chest, back, and shoulders. Symptoms range from mild blemishes to painful, deep cysts. Some patients also experience post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots) that persist long after acne clears. At our clinic, we design treatment plans tailored not only to the severity of acne but also to individual skin types, ensuring safe and effective results for all patients—including those with sensitive skin, darker skin tones, or a history of scarring.

Female model examining her face in the mirror

Advanced Acne Treatments We Offer In Our Petaluma and Hercules Clinics

At Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area, we combine clinical expertise with clinically proven therapeutics to deliver results-driven care. We can help you choose the proper products and cleansers.

Prescription Medications

Topical Retinoids & Antibiotics: Tretinoin, Retin-A, topical clindamycin, topical erythromycin, and Azelaic Acid are commonly used to help with clogged pores and bacterial growth.
Oral Antibiotics: Doxycycline and others are reserved for moderate to severe inflammatory acne.
Hormonal Therapies: Birth control pills or spironolactone to regulate hormonally driven acne.
Isotretinoin (Accutane®): Gold standard for severe, resistant inflammatory scarring acne.

In-Office Procedures

Chemical Peels: With the help of our medical aesthetician, we can provide chemical peels that help with exfoliation, skin turnover, and the reduction of clogged pores.
Blue Light Therapy: Targets and kills Propionbacterium acnes bacteria by activating porphyrins to minimize acne inflammation.
Cortisone Injections: Intralesional Kenalog provides rapid relief for painful cysts.

Acne Scar Solutions

Even after active acne clears, scarring can remain. We offer:

Fractional and CO2 Laser Resurfacing
Microneedling with PRP: Enhances acne scar reduction and improves skin texture.
Dermal Fillers for depressed scars
Subcision (scar release surgery)

Our comprehensive approach ensures that we not only treat active breakouts but also help restore smooth, healthy-looking skin.

Board-Certified Dermatologists Serving Petaluma & Hercules

Our team of board-certified dermatologists is dedicated to providing expert skin care for patients of all ages. At Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area, we combine advanced dermatology techniques with personalized care to help you achieve healthy, beautiful skin.

Choose a trusted dermatology practice committed to exceptional care and long-term skin health.

What sets us apart:

Board-Certified Dermatologists – Our dermatologists have completed rigorous training and certification to deliver the highest level of dermatologic care. Our medical colleagues recognize our expertise, and as such, we have been recipients of Castle Connolly Top Doctors – including most recently in January 2025
Comprehensive Skin Care – From medical dermatology and acne treatment to advanced acne scar solutions and cosmetic procedures, we offer a full range of services under one roof.
Patient-Focused Approach – Every treatment plan is customized to fit your unique skin type, concerns, and goals.
Advanced Technology – We use clinically proven treatments and devices for effective, safe results.

Patient Reviews

Trusted by Thousands of Bay Area Patients

Acne & Acne Scar Treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is a candidate for Accutane?

Patients with scarring, nodulocystic inflammatory acne. It is also prescribed at lower dosages for adults with chronic resistant acne.

Is it bad to pick or pop pimples?

Doing so generally inflames the area, leading to slower healing of the acne lesions, and can sometimes lead to unwanted scarring.

What cosmetic treatments help with acne scarring?

Depending on the type of acne scars, different treatment modalities can be used. These include CO2 laser, Fraxel laser, microneedling, glycolic or TCA chemical peels, and scar subcision.

What conditions are often mistaken for acne?

Perioral Dermatitis, Rosacea, Folliculitis, Keratosis Pilaris, and Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Does your practice inject inflamed acne cysts?

Yes, we commonly inject with a cortisone called Kenalog, and if the cyst is very large, we will even incise and drain the affected lesion.