Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Dermatologists in Santa Cruz, CA
Since the early 1960s, our dermatology practice has served Santa Cruz County with comprehensive medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology services. Our board-certified dermatologists and experienced team prioritize patient-centered care, combining advanced training with personalized treatment plans. With decades of collective expertise in skin cancer detection, chronic skin conditions, and aesthetic treatments, we maintain affiliations with leading medical institutions and professional societies.Our state-of-the-art facilities include a medically supervised esthetics center, offering both clinical treatments and cosmetic enhancements. We emphasize preventive care, patient education, and evidence-based practices to help individuals achieve optimal skin health throughout their lives.
Services
Skin Cancer Detection
Acne Treatment
Botox Injections
Laser Hair Removal
Psoriasis Management
Wart Removal
Rosacea Treatment
Wrinkle Reduction
Mole Evaluation
Dermatologic Surgery
Details
- Year established: 1960
Highlights and features
- Board-certified dermatologists with 25-40 years of clinical experience
- Comprehensive care for medical, surgical, and cosmetic skin needs
- Medically supervised esthetics center with advanced treatment options
- Affiliated with UC San Francisco and leading dermatology research institutions
- Proven track record serving Santa Cruz County since 1960
Associations and certifications
- American Board of Dermatology
- American Society of Mohs Surgery
- American Academy of Dermatology
Services
Skin Cancer Detection
Our board-certified dermatologists perform comprehensive skin exams to identify suspicious moles and lesions. Using advanced diagnostic techniques, we detect melanoma and other skin cancers at their earliest, most treatable stages. Patients receive personalized risk assessments and follow-up care plans based on their medical history and family background.
Botox Injections
FDA-approved Botox treatments reduce dynamic wrinkles by temporarily relaxing facial muscles. Our specialists target frown lines, crow's feet, and forehead creases with precision injections. Patients see visible improvement within days, with results lasting 3-4 months through regular maintenance sessions.
Laser Hair Removal
Using medical-grade laser technology, we offer permanent hair reduction for facial and body areas. The treatment targets hair follicles with concentrated light energy, requiring multiple sessions for optimal results. Patients enjoy smoother skin with reduced ingrown hairs and maintenance-free periods.
Acne Treatment
Customized treatment plans address mild to severe acne through topical medications, oral therapies, and in-office procedures. Our specialists identify underlying causes like hormonal imbalances or bacterial overgrowth. Patients receive skincare education and long-term management strategies for lasting clear skin.
Dermatologic Surgery
We perform outpatient surgical procedures for skin cancer removal, mole excision, and lesion biopsies. Our Mohs-certified surgeons use precise techniques to minimize scarring while ensuring complete removal of abnormal tissue. Post-operative care includes wound management and healing monitoring.
People
Morgan L. Magid, M.D.
Board-certified Dermatologist
Practicing since 1988, Dr. Magid is Clinical Associate Professor at UCSF and director of Dominican Hospital's Gang Tattoo Removal Program. He specializes in dermatologic surgery and skin cancer treatment while maintaining active community involvement.
Andrew S. Calciano, M.D.
Board-certified Dermatologist
With UC San Diego and NYU training, Dr. Calciano focuses on skin cancer prevention and treatment. A Clinical Associate Professor at UCSF, he practices in his hometown while balancing family life and outdoor activities.
Molly C. Shields, M.D.
Board-certified Dermatologist
Dr. Shields completed her residency at UC Davis and serves as Clinical Associate Professor at UCSF. She specializes in general dermatology while maintaining strong community ties in her hometown of Soquel.
Robert J. Segal, M.D.
Board-certified Dermatologist
Practicing since 1976, Dr. Segal brings extensive experience in geriatric dermatology. A Stanford-trained specialist, he maintains active memberships in multiple professional societies while providing comprehensive skin care.
Sharon Kluger MHS, PA-C
Board-certified Physician Assistant
With 15 years in family medicine and Duke University training, PA Kluger specializes in dermatologic treatments. She relocated from North Carolina to join our team, bringing expertise in both medical and cosmetic skin care.
Questions
What dermatology services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology services including skin cancer detection, acne treatment, Botox, laser hair removal, and management of chronic skin conditions.
Do you accept my insurance plan?
We participate in most major insurance plans and will bill your insurer directly. For non-participating plans, we offer courtesy billing. Please verify coverage with our office staff.
How can I schedule an appointment?
Request appointments online or by calling (831) 476-2444 during business hours. We offer same-day slots for urgent skin concerns and require 24-hour notice for cancellations.
What payment options are available?
We accept cash, checks, credit cards, and offer flexible payment plans through our financial coordinator for uninsured patients or cosmetic treatments.
Are your providers board-certified?
All our dermatologists are board-certified by the American Board of Dermatology with additional fellowships in Mohs surgery and specialized training programs.
Do you offer cosmetic treatments?
Yes, our DERM-essence center provides FDA-approved cosmetic services including injectables, laser treatments, and medical-grade skincare products under professional supervision.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Tom McElroy-Wild Survival
Apr 06, 2021
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I had Moh's surgery on my nose to remove skin cancer, and the initial repair/plastic surgery was pretty bad. I went to Shilpa at Derm-Essence to see what could be done to make it look better. I got laser treatments and 'filler' injections to help hide the large scar/divot that had been left in my nose. I cannot give Shilpa a high enough review. After 3 sessions my nose looks so much better. I really thought I would have to live with a large dent in my nose for life and thanks to Shilpa the scar and dent are barely noticeable.
She really understood exactly what needed to be done and was very involved in the process of making sure it was done right. She was genuinely involved in doing everything possible to make things look great. I dont normally leave glowing reviews, but I couldn't be happier with my experience at Derm-Essence.
She really understood exactly what needed to be done and was very involved in the process of making sure it was done right. She was genuinely involved in doing everything possible to make things look great. I dont normally leave glowing reviews, but I couldn't be happier with my experience at Derm-Essence.
Andre Ballas
Oct 24, 2020
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This place was amazing. I got microdermabrasion done with Shilpa and she went above and beyond. In addition to not having to wait at all, comfortable/seamless experience, and amazing results, I even got a cooling face mask afterwards . Highly recommend!
Lura Foster
Jun 16, 2017
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This is a rip. I was in the hospital and they took money out of my acct. So of course I could not call them. Yet they did not know I was in the hospital. But, even though I feel I should have gotten a full refund, maybe minus the trial / offer price. And maybe a shiping fee. I called them and they did give me most of it back. But I still lost $150.00 over this ordeal. Their stuff, I found I am allergic to it also. I am not a happy camper. I would not suggest them to anyone. But, Maybe you will have better luck then I.
Charlotte Boc-Brandt
May 20, 2017
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Do not order this product under any circumstances. If you do not call AND REACH them within 14 days, your card (for shipping charges only!) will be charged for nearly 200 dollars. I called within that time period and never could get through so I am stuck paying this amount for a product that doesn't work. Beware!
