
Patrick Bitter, Sr.
Dermatologist
450 Sutter Street Suite 800 San Francisco California, 94108About
Patrick H. Bitter Sr., MD, works for Epi Center Med Spa in San Francisco, which is the first LEED certified medical spa in the world. A trained dermatologist, he is also an attending physician at the Good Samaritan Hospital. Dr. Bitter has over 40 years of experience in dermatology with particular expertise in laser treatments, skin rejuvenation, and cosmetic dermatology. He studied medicine at The University of Groningen, which is one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands, as well as one of its largest. He obtained his medical degree in 1960 and relocated to the United States, where he continued his post-graduate training. Board eligible for certification in dermatology, Dr. Bitter was included into the esteemed Who?s Who of US Dermatologists in 2013 for his outstanding work and passion for medicine.
Education and Training
University of Groningen
Board Certification
Board Eligible
Provider Details

Patrick Bitter, Sr.'s Expert Contributions
Cancerous?
Cellular blue nevi are not often malignant. You could get it biopsied and this would give all family members peace of mind. Dr. Bitter, Sr. READ MORE
How to treat burned lips?
Lower lip changes are often from long-term sun exposure and can be actinic cheilitis that sometimes can become squamous cell carcinoma. Your degree of change should be easy to treat. See your dermatologist. Liquor probably not a factor. READ MORE
Toenail issue?
Separation of a toe nail often comes from some type of injury. It isn't always black and blue. Protect the nail, keep it short, and a new nail should grow out and most likely be normal. READ MORE
Ringworm?
A short course of anti fungal medication gives a higher cure rate and reduces risk of infection to others faster READ MORE
How do dermatologists remove blackheads?
After proper preparation of the face they are removed usually by an instrument called a comedone extractor. Less often suction is used READ MORE
Is Mohs surgery painful?
Mohs surgery is no more painful than most other types of skin surgery. Local anesthesia is injected making the procedural priority. The procedure can however be somewhat long in duration READ MORE
Does popping pimples cause acne scars?
It is not without risk of scarring READ MORE
Seborrheic dermatitis?
If seborrheic dermatitis is the true dx, then treatment of the underlying condition is paramount. Start with a good shampoo (Rx or over the counter type such as Head and Shoulders or other zinc shampoo). Treat both the scalp and forehead with frequent shampooing. The rash on the forehead will also clear more rapidly with use of OTC cortisone cream as needed for short periods of time. READ MORE
Do chemical peels remove blackheads?
Not usually, cp's may remove the black top. The remainder may need to be removed with an extractor. Chemical peels do make it easier and do work in prevention of future black heads. READ MORE
Are pore cleansing masks safe for sensitive skin?
It usually depends on the product, degree of sensitivity of the skin, and the skill of the provider. READ MORE
What can I do about my dry skin?
Moisturizer, avoid hot and long showers, avoid excessively dry environments. READ MORE
What could be causing hair loss?
Many causes, but far and away male patter baldness is the most common cause. READ MORE
What is the best topical cream for acne?
It depends on the type of acne. Retin A remains one of the best topical meds. READ MORE
What foods to avoid if you have eczema?
This remains very trial and error READ MORE
What is the best product for shrinking pores?
Retin A remains as one of the best products at reducing pore size when the pores are stretched due to black heads. However photo facial is one of the best treatments when pores dilate with age READ MORE
How can I minimize my facial pores?
Retin A READ MORE
How can I treat fungus between my toes?
Assuming you have the right diagnosis, there are many excellent OTC anti-fungal creams available. Keep area dry and wipe thoroughly after bathing. Results should begin in just a few days. Other possible DX's are eczema, intertrigo, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, etc. Good luck. READ MORE
What causes acne on the back?
Most commonly it is due to sweating and is common in persons who frequent the gym and are unable to shower after working out READ MORE
Can swimming in the ocean cause whiteheads?
Not in the spring or early usually, but exposure to a lot of sun can especially if one has had little previous exposure such as first or early exposurein the Spring etc. Sometimes excessive sweating clogs the sweat ducts and causes these bumps. Cool compresses help! READ MORE
What pockmark treatments don't use lasers?
Acne-induced ice pick scars don't respond well to lasers. READ MORE
Areas of expertise and specialization
Faculty Titles & Positions
- Invented the PhotoFacialSM procedure; known as IPL Photo Rejuvenation Now -
Awards
- Who's Who of US Dermatologists, 2013
Internships
- University of michigan
Professional Society Memberships
- American Academy of Dermatology, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine
Articles and Publications
- Textbook on Photo Facial Procedure
What do you attribute your success to?
- Determination, Being Inquisitive
Hobbies / Sports
- Triathalons, Iron Man, Bicycling
Favorite professional publications
- Journal of American Academy of Dermatology
Patrick Bitter, Sr.'s Practice location
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Patrick Bitter, Sr.'s reviews
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