Dermatologists · San Francisco, CA/Updated June 13, 2026
The Best Dermatologists in San Francisco, CA
Navigating skin health in San Francisco is essential, and choosing the right dermatologist can make all the difference. Our rankings reveal the best options.
MHMaya Hendricks · Home Services Editor Updated June 13, 2026 · Next review July 2026
Editorially independent6 companies evaluated
cover story
★ Editor's ChoiceDavid J MacGregor MD
96Score
Latest update · June 13, 2026: Initial ranking published. 6 San Francisco-metro dermatologists businesses evaluated, top 6 ranked by Vetted Score.
In a city known for its diverse climate and lifestyle, skin health is a priority for many San Franciscans. From sun exposure to urban pollution, your skin faces unique challenges, making it crucial to find a dermatologist who understands local conditions.
To create this ranking, we evaluated six top dermatologists in the San Francisco area, focusing on their Vetted Scores, patient reviews, and overall reputation. Our list reflects providers who consistently deliver high-quality care, ensuring you have the best options available.
6dermatologists evaluated in San Francisco
4.77average rating across the field
4.1Kcustomer reviews analyzed
Cityvetted analysis of public Google review data, updated June 13, 2026.
We assessed each dermatologist based on their ratings and the number of reviews they received. Our evaluation process is transparent, with no business paying for placement in our rankings. We refresh our data monthly to ensure the information is current and accurate.
This approach allows us to provide an unbiased view of the dermatology landscape in San Francisco. We encourage you to consider not just ratings but also the experiences of other patients when making your choice.
The Vetted Score: six weighted factors
Customer sentiment25%
Rating quality20%
Review volume & velocity20%
Website trust signals15%
Service breadth10%
Business longevity10%
Sentiment is measured by AI analysis of review text, recency-weighted, with verified-pattern checks to discount suspicious review bursts.
With a stellar rating of 4.9 from 1,907 reviews, Dr. David J. MacGregor is highly regarded for his thoroughness and patient care. Many patients appreciate his ability to explain complex skin conditions clearly. He is particularly well-suited for those seeking comprehensive dermatological assessments. One downside is that his schedule can be quite full, requiring advance booking.
Dr. Michael J. Dans holds a 4.9 rating from 675 reviews, with patients praising his expertise and the thoroughness of his treatments. He is known for his approachable demeanor and ability to address various skin concerns. This makes him an excellent choice for those seeking value without compromising on quality. However, some reviews mention occasional delays during appointments.
The San Francisco Dermatopathology Institute has an impressive rating of 5.0 based on 118 reviews. Patients appreciate the specialized care and expertise in dermatopathology. This makes it an ideal choice for those needing precise diagnoses and tailored treatment plans. However, the limited number of reviews may leave some potential patients wanting more feedback.
Schweiger Dermatology Group in SF-Presidio holds a 4.8 rating from 949 reviews. Patients often commend the friendly staff and effective treatments. This clinic is particularly well-suited for general dermatological needs and cosmetic procedures. However, some customers have expressed concerns about high wait times during peak hours. A review base that deep is hard to game, and the score barely moves across it, which is the clearest consistency signal we track. Most of what reviewers hire it for is general dermatological and cosmetic needs. It serves San Francisco, CA, with $120 to $400 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are high wait times and mixed experiences with scheduling.
The California Skin Institute has a solid rating of 4.7 from 330 reviews. Patients appreciate the knowledgeable staff and the range of services offered. This clinic is a good option for those seeking both medical and aesthetic dermatology. However, some reviews mention inconsistency in appointment availability, which can be frustrating.
Presidio Dermatology has a rating of 4.3 based on 115 reviews. Patients note the clinic's caring approach and personalized treatment plans. While it can be a good choice for routine dermatology, the limited number of reviews suggests it may be less proven compared to higher-ranked options. Some patients have also mentioned longer wait times for appointments.
Choosing the right dermatologist can feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions can simplify the process. Here are three key considerations to keep in mind.
What is your specialty?
Dermatology covers a wide range of issues. Ensure the dermatologist has experience with your specific skin concern.
How do you approach patient care?
Ask about their treatment philosophy and how they involve patients in the decision-making process.
What are your office policies?
Inquire about appointment availability, insurance acceptance, and follow-up care to avoid any surprises.
What it costs
What dermatologists cost in San Francisco
The cost of dermatological services can vary widely based on the type of treatment and provider experience. Here's a breakdown of typical pricing.
Initial Consultation$150 to $300, depending on the provider's experience and location.
Basic Skin Check$100 to $250, typically covered by insurance for routine checks.
Acne Treatment$50 to $150 per session, depending on the method used.
Cosmetic Procedures$200 to $1,000, varying widely based on the procedure and provider.
Frequently asked questions
How much does dermatology treatment cost in San Francisco?
Prices for dermatology services in San Francisco can range from $100 to $300 per visit, depending on the complexity of the treatment and the provider.
What is the average wait time for an appointment with a dermatologist in San Francisco?
Average wait times can vary, but expect around 2 to 4 weeks for a routine appointment with a dermatologist in San Francisco.
How often is this ranking updated?
We re-run the full analysis monthly with fresh review data. Last updated June 13, 2026.
Our verdict
For most San Francisco residents: <strong>David J MacGregor MD</strong>
David J MacGregor MD is the clear choice for your dermatology needs, given his outstanding 4.9-star rating from 1,907 reviews. If you're looking for a specialist with a proven track record, consider Michael J. Dans, MD, PhD, who also holds a 4.9-star rating but with fewer reviews. For those specifically interested in dermatopathology, the San Francisco Dermatopathology Institute offers a stellar 5-star experience, making it ideal for specialized skin diagnostics.
Cityvetted
