Treating Acne

Acne isn’t just a teenage concern—it can affect men and women at nearly any age. Bacteria do not cause acne, although bacteria play a role in its development. Acne is a condition affecting the hair follicles of the face, chest, and back, which is prevalent in people of various ages and skin types. Just about anything can trigger acne, from stress to inadequate sleep and poor skincare products. The good news? Pizza and chocolate don’t cause acne, though a consistently poor diet can contribute.

Regular, in-office exfoliation is one of the most recommended approaches for combating acne. Breakouts may be triggered by hormones, stress, or lifestyle factors, and they often persist despite over-the-counter remedies.

I strongly recommend RefinedMD. I have been going to see Dr. Swengel and his amazing team for over 10 years. Recently I saw Hannah for a wonderful facial. She has magic hands, is incredibly knowledgeable about products and helped me refine my home skin care regimen. 

Tracy G., 5-Star Google review

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Dr. Steven Swengel
Dr. Steven Swengel
Board-Certified Dermatologist

Since establishing RefinedMD in 2012, Dr. Swengel has earned a reputation throughout the South Bay as one of the area’s top cosmetic and medical dermatologists. He is sought out for his expertise as a Mohs micrographic surgeon and laser treatment specialist, as well as his warm, attentive style of patient care.

Meet Dr. Steven Swengel
Dermatologist
Board-Certified Dermatologist
Acne is a Medical Condition | RefinedMD, Los Gatos + San Jose

Acne Treatment Options

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Steven Swengel leads our dermatology team in evaluating the root causes of your acne and tailoring treatments to your unique skin. Options may include:

  • Prescription skincare to regulate oil production, calm inflammation, and prevent new breakouts.
  • Oral and topical medications for more persistent or severe acne.
  • Professional treatments such as chemical peels or light-based therapies to reduce bacteria and speed healing.

Our goal is not just to treat active blemishes but also to protect your skin’s health and prevent future scarring.

Treating Acne Scars

Even after acne clears, scars can remain as a lasting reminder. These scars may appear as depressions, raised areas, or lingering discoloration. Acne scar treatments at our Los Gatos practice are customized to each patient, often combining multiple modalities for optimal results.

Dr. Swengel collaborates closely with double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Sudeep Roy to create comprehensive plans for patients seeking more advanced scar correction. Depending on your needs, treatments may include:

  • Laser resurfacing to smooth uneven texture and encourage new collagen growth.
  • Microneedling  with or without radiofrequency to stimulate skin remodeling.
  • Dermal fillers  to lift indented scars for a smoother appearance.
  • Subcision and minor surgical techniques for tethered or resistant scars.
  • Medical-grade skincare  to improve skin tone and support long-term results.

This team-based approach ensures that every aspect of your skin’s health and appearance is considered, from active breakouts to long-term scar improvement.

Medical Insurance

RefinedMD is an out-of-network clinic, which means we do not have a contract or communicate with any health insurance providers. A payment receipt along with a super bill will be provided following your appointment, which you can use to seek possible reimbursement from your insurance provider. Please note that payment is due in full at the time of your appointment. Learn more about insurance at RefinedMD.

A Personalized Path to Clearer Skin

Every patient’s skin tells a different story. During your consultation, we’ll carefully assess your acne or scarring, discuss your goals, and design a plan that balances effectiveness with your comfort and lifestyle. Our treatments are designed to help you look refreshed and feel more confident, whether your concern is preventing breakouts or addressing scars left behind.

A Reputation Built on Results

Dr Roy does amazing work. He is a true artist. He thoroughly explained the procedure, very helpful with...
Fabulous polite, professional and highly skilled Doctors and staff. Have had several Halo laser treatments...
Refined MD has been my go-to destination for aesthetic treatments for nearly four years, and I couldn't...
RefinedMD has been my go-to for all things skincare for years! They have top-of-the-line equipment,...

Request Your Consultation Today

If you’re dealing with stubborn acne breakouts or want to minimize acne scars, request a consultation with Dr. Swengel using the online form to discuss your treatment options and learn why people from San Jose, Campbell, Saratoga, Cupertino, and throughout the Bay Area trust him for their skin care. Or call us at (408) 688-2082 to schedule an appointment.

Request a Consultation
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Santa, But Make It Refined: A Holiday Night Out

This isn’t your standard holiday party. Join RefinedMD on December 4 for a festive evening filled with a little glamour, a little mischief, and plenty of holiday cheer. Stop by the office, grab a cocktail, explore offerings from local vendors, and strike a pose for a photo with our very special sexy Santa. Bring a friend, make it a date night, or simply stop in to celebrate with the RefinedMD team. Expect an evening designed for mingling, shopping, sipping, and kicking off the holiday season in style, all with a distinctly Refined twist. Additional details are coming soon, so save the date and start deciding what you’re going to wear for that Santa photo.

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Reviewed for clinical accuracy by a RefinedMD Medical Editor on August 26th, 2026.

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