About Dr. Kristen Richards, MD
Kristen Richards, MD is a board-certified La Jolla dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon providing care to patients at Torrey Pines Dermatology.
Dr. Richards, a native of La Jolla, received her Bachelor of Arts (BA) from Stanford University and then received her medical degree (MD) from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine (CWRU) in Cleveland.
Dr. Richards received her dermatology specialty training at Northwestern University School of Medicine in Chicago, following an internship in pediatrics at the University Hospitals of Cleveland. After completing her residency, Dr. Richards pursued her interest in skin cancer surgery and reconstruction through a fellowship in Mohs micrographic surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville.
Dr. Richards maintains staff privileges at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, where she was the Dermatology Department Head. Professional Affiliations
Dr. Richards, a native of La Jolla, received her Bachelor of Arts (BA) from Stanford University and then received her medical degree (MD) from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine (CWRU) in Cleveland.
Dr. Richards received her dermatology specialty training at Northwestern University School of Medicine in Chicago, following an internship in pediatrics at the University Hospitals of Cleveland. After completing her residency, Dr. Richards pursued her interest in skin cancer surgery and reconstruction through a fellowship in Mohs micrographic surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville.
Dr. Richards maintains staff privileges at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, where she was the Dermatology Department Head. Professional Affiliations
- American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)
- American College of Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology (ACMS)
Patient Education Resources
Does Coolsculpting® really work?
CoolSculpting® is a non-surgical, non-invasive procedure that uses a device to cool targeted areas of fat, causing the fat cells to freeze and die. Over time, the body naturally eliminates these d...
CoolSculpting® is a non-surgical, non-invasive procedure that uses a device to cool targeted areas of fat, causing the fat cells to freeze and die. Over time, the body naturally eliminates these d...
Does the food I eat affect my acne?
There is some evidence to suggest that diet can play a role in the development of acne. Studies have found that a diet high in sugar and processed foods can increase the risk of developing acne. Diets...
There is some evidence to suggest that diet can play a role in the development of acne. Studies have found that a diet high in sugar and processed foods can increase the risk of developing acne. Diets...
What are some basic acne skin care tips?
Here are some basic acne skin care tips that may help to reduce the appearance and severity of acne:Cleanse your skin gently: Use a mild, non-abrasive cleanser to wash your face twice a day. Avoid usi...
Here are some basic acne skin care tips that may help to reduce the appearance and severity of acne:Cleanse your skin gently: Use a mild, non-abrasive cleanser to wash your face twice a day. Avoid usi...
What are some treatments to get rid of warts?
The best treatment for warts will depend on the type and location of the wart, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences. Some common treatment options for warts include:Salicylic ac...
The best treatment for warts will depend on the type and location of the wart, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences. Some common treatment options for warts include:Salicylic ac...
What is the treatment for rosacea affecting my eyes?
Ocular rosacea is a subtype of rosacea that affects the eyes, and it can cause symptoms such as redness, itching, burning, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. Treatment for ocular rosacea typically in...
Ocular rosacea is a subtype of rosacea that affects the eyes, and it can cause symptoms such as redness, itching, burning, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. Treatment for ocular rosacea typically in...
Torrey Pines Dermatology

Torrey Pines Dermatology, located conveniently on the Scripps Hospital campus in La Jolla, is committed to bringing state-of-the-art dermatological care to our San Diego patients in a comfortable, compassionate atmosphere. Torrey Pines Dermatology is La Jolla’s premier skin care resource, providing both medical and cosmetic treatments in a highly professional, but warm and welcoming atmosphere.