Essential Dermatology Natick

Essential Dermatology was founded in 2019 by Dr. Michael Krathen, who serves as its Medical Director. The practice describes its mission as evidence-based, patient-centered, empathetic and cost-effective dermatological care. It sees patients of all ages, including families, from its Natick office on weekdays and its Needham office on Wednesdays.

The medical side of the practice diagnoses and treats skin, hair and nail conditions that are not cosmetic, including acne, psoriasis, rosacea, eczema, hives, shingles, molluscum contagiosum, vitiligo, birthmarks, pigmentation disorders, sunspots, hair loss, fungal infections and alopecia areata. Skin cancer screenings and treatment cover melanoma, actinic keratosis, and basal and squamous cell carcinoma. Surgical work includes Mohs surgery and the removal of benign growths such as moles, cysts, skin tags, milia, warts, scars and keloids. Medical appointments are generally covered by most insurance plans, and patients must obtain any referral their insurer requires before the visit.

The cosmetic side is described by the practice as a medical spa with a range of services and a dermatologist-led team. Cosmetic procedures are performed under the supervision of a board-certified dermatologist. Offerings include BOTOX for facial fine lines and wrinkles, Sculptra for restoring facial volume, dermal fillers, KYBELLA, chemical peels (including deeper and phenol peels), CO2 resurfacing, IPL photofacials, Fraxel, NeoLux, UltraPulse fractional laser treatment and microneedling. Plans are customized to each patient's skin type and goals. Dermal fillers are priced per syringe and laser treatments and microneedling per session, with prices set at a consultation. Consultations can be requested by phone or through an online form. Patients receive a personalized cost estimate at the visit and detailed aftercare instructions after treatment. CareCredit financing is available at both offices.

Visits are straightforward. Patients should bring a driver's license, insurance card, a credit card, a medication list, a list of drug allergies and relevant medical records, and are asked to wear minimal makeup since it may need to be removed. A medical scribe or medical assistant often joins visits with Dr. Krathen, and all staff complete HIPAA training. Follow-up visits with Dr. Krathen can be booked online through the Partners Patient Gateway. Free parking is available around the Natick building. Appointments can be rescheduled without a fee with 24 hours' notice; a $100 no-show fee applies otherwise.

Treatment plans are built around each patient's skin type, goals and individual needs, with an evidence-based, patient-centered and cost-conscious focus.