Prescription-strength treatment for acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, rashes and pigmentation when over-the-counter products are not enough, at Glow Theory in Carlsbad.
Medical dermatology
Oftentimes, skin conditions like psoriasis and rosacea can’t be treated with over-the-counter topical creams. We are proud to offer our patients medical prescriptions to help them improve the health and appearance of their skin. At Glow Theory Aesthetic & Dermatology Studio, we believe in using the power of science to enhance our patients’ natural beauty and boost their overall confidence. Our warm aesthetics experts are proud to offer medical prescriptions and other cutting-edge medical dermatology treatments to patients in Carlsbad (La Costa), Encinitas and the neighboring communities of Rancho Santa Fe, Oceanside, Solana Beach and Del Mar, California.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jonathan Sykes, MD, Medical Director · Updated October 12, 2026
Voted best med spa in North County San Diego
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Send us your details and our team will call you to find a time that suits you. Your visit starts with a consultation with our dermatology team, who examine your skin, explain your options and confirm costs before any treatment.
Medical Prescriptions
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Financing available on treatments of $2,000 or more
Medical Prescriptions Carlsbad
Your providers
Founder & CEO
Insiyah has spent more than 15 years in medical dermatology and aesthetics. She completed a Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Fellowship at Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, affiliated with the Harvard Dermatology Residency, and founded Glow Theory to bring that clinical standard to aesthetic care in Carlsbad.
Medical director
Dr. Sykes is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with more than 30 years of practice. He is the former Director of Facial Plastic Surgery at UC Davis and a Past President of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and has trained many practitioners in facial anatomy and Botox injection technique.
Answered by Insiyah Darugar, MSN, FNP, founder and CEO
Costs vary by medication: topicals are often affordable, and biologics may cost more. Medical dermatology visits at Glow Theory are $150–$375. Contact us for a quote.
It depends on the condition and medication. Topical treatments for acne or eczema may show improvement within 4-8 weeks, while oral medications like isotretinoin for severe acne might take 3-6 months for full results. Consistency is key, and we’ll monitor your progress to ensure the best outcome.
Most side effects are mild, like temporary redness or dryness with topicals, or stomach upset with some oral drugs. Serious side effects are rare but possible—oral isotretinoin, for example, requires monitoring for mood changes or liver effects. We’ll explain all risks upfront and provide tips to minimize discomfort, like using moisturizers for dryness.
Yes, many prescriptions pair well with treatments like chemical peels or lasers, but it depends on your skin’s needs. For instance, retinoids for acne can complement laser therapy, but we avoid combining certain topicals with peels to prevent irritation. We’ll design a safe, effective plan tailored to you during your consultation.
Not every medication works for everyone, but we’re here to adapt. If results lag, we’ll reassess—perhaps switching to a different topical, adjusting dosage, or exploring systemic options such as oral medicines or injectable biologics for psoriasis. Your follow-up visits help us fine-tune your plan to get your skin back on track.
Many are, like moisturizing topicals for eczema, but others, like steroids, need careful use to avoid thinning skin. Oral drugs like isotretinoin are typically short-term. We’ll prescribe the safest option for your condition and monitor you to prevent issues, ensuring long-term skin health.
