Just went back for a follow-up visit today, Tuesday 04/07/2026. , Dr. Bloom is terrific. Fantastic bedside manner and certainly knows his stuff. Dr. Bloom can diagnose any skin problem in a second, in my opinion & experience. The wonderful staff (Grace & Okwha) are such quality representatives. Personable, kind, genuine, and very professional. Dr. Bloom, Grace & Okwha have really been so good to me throughout these many years. I'm very grateful for the superior help and kindness they have shown me. Highly recommend. Thank you, David M Alameda read more

I had an extremely disappointing experience with Dr. Ernest Bloom. When he entered the room, he immediately threw my phone across the table, which was unnecessary and unprofessional. I had asked the nurse beforehand if I could charge it, and it was out of the way, so his reaction left a terrible first impression. I went to see him for specific skin concerns and explained what I needed. Shockingly, he told me to order everything off Amazon instead of providing a prescription. As a dermatologist, his job is to prescribe the right treatment, not suggest random products online, especially without understanding my financial situation or insurance coverage. The appointment lasted only three minutes, and he barely examined my skin. I had booked a full consultation, but he seemed uninterested and rushed. Based on my experience and other reviews, I feel Dr. Bloom lacks respect for his patients, particularly people of color. This was by far the worst medical appointment I've ever had, and I hope the medical board reviews his practice. He does not deserve to continue treating patients like this. read more

He basically just hands you a print out of stuff he recommends, and that's your treatment plan. I was able to get a prescription for a single bottle of Clindamycin for my acne. One single bottle -- with no refills. Refills are declined. I've tried to tell the dermatologist that Clindamycin doesn't really work for me. (Or maybe I just need to try it for more than a month.) To get a follow up appointment I must make an appointment with my Primary Care Doctor (which takes forever due to limited availability) so I can get the referral. Then this place doesn't have much availability so it takes like 9 months just for the follow up. By that point it all just starts over with prescribing one single bottle of Clindamycin. I also get another print-out. This is the cycle I've been in for 6 years with this place. It's like ground hog day. read more

Dr. Bloom and his team went above and beyond in every possible way. From the moment I walked in, I was treated with kindness, respect, and genuine care. Dr. Bloom took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I felt comfortable and confident throughout the entire process. He even referred me to an incredible Podiatrist. His staff is just as amazing, professional, compassionate, and truly dedicated to their patients. You can tell they love what they do and take pride in providing exceptional care. It's rare to find a medical office where everyone goes the extra mile, but this team absolutely does. I can't thank Dr. Bloom and his staff enough for their outstanding service and the positive experience they created. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for top-quality care and a team that truly cares about their patients. I will be back in a few weeks! read more

I second the weird and offputting comment on an earlier review. No idea how the guy still has a job with his lack of bedside manner and strange comments. I came in for a skin check and a few other concerns. Spent more time looking at his iPad handed me three pieces of paper and had me on my way with no explanation of condition or treatment plan. I've suffered with acne my whole life and have tried every dermatologist recommendation. He didn't ask me anything regarding history of prescriptions or treatments, and simply wrote a prescription for a clindamycin wash. If you've ever suffered with acne, you know how helpful this is. read more

Dr. Bloom is seriously the best dermatologist I've ever been to. I've dealt with so many frustrating skin issues--pityriasis rosea, eczema, and a bunch of other stuff. I went to three different dermatologists before him, and they all gave me different answers that didn't work. From my first appointment, Dr. Bloom totally nailed the diagnosis and treatment. He got me on a medication that my insurance wouldn't cover, but he worked it out through a connection he has with the pharmaceutical rep (which was amazing). He also suggested some holistic treatments and supplements I could easily grab on Amazon, which I really appreciated. What really stood out, though, is how much he genuinely cares. He saw me monthly while I was still suffering and even called to check in on me. I've never had a doctor do that before. Fast forward to now--I'm almost completely symptom-free after so much trial and error with other doctors. I can't thank Dr. Bloom enough for his care, patience, and expertise. If you're looking for a dermatologist who actually listens and gets results, he's the one to see. read more

Dr. Bloom instantly resolved the issues I've been dealing with for 8 years. I've seen many dermatologists over the years, with zero resolve. He has good energy, is straight-forward and very knowledgable. Thank you, Dr. Bloom! read more

The doctor determined I had acne in about 30 seconds before leaving the room. Now it looks like I may have an autoimmune disorder that happens to affect my skin among other things. Not just run of the mill acne. Also.. I'm 42.. not 12.. and suddenly I have a kind of scenic never had before? He told me I should get a second opinion which I was confused about but ok.,. Overall it was a meh experience. P read more

Awesome care! Dr. Bloom is always detailed and very willing to ask follow-up questions. Would definitely recommend!

Without ever having struggled with acne in my life, I suddenly started getting severe hormonal acne a few years ago. After trying plenty of different skin care products, changing diet, etc and only having the acne worsen, I saw Dr. Bloom. Within 3 months, my acne was almost entirely cleared. He recommended products that I could buy on Amazon and were significantly cheaper than all the highly rated products that weren't doing anything for my skin. I'm including photos to show the progress. He had me on antibiotics for 2 months and ongoing I now take several vitamins/supplements and use a daily mask and new skincare products. Overall, I spend $30 per month on all of these compared to $100 per month previously. Really worth seeing Dr. Bloom to figure out the best path forward. He has a unique style and is very efficient, so go in with questions planned and be prepared that he will be quite brusque. Whenever I did have questions he would answer them and his methods worked very well for me. I also really appreciated that he considered diet and lifestyle in addition to just topical/antibiotic solutions. If you have very strong opinions on what you are not willing to try for your treatment, be very clear upfront on what you are willing/not willing to try. It does take a little while to get a response from his office so that would be one recommendation to improve. After the first appointment, it's very easy to book in the office itself. If you live close enough, it may be easiest to just drop by to make an appointment. read more

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This was probably the weirdest, most off putting experience I've had with a doctor. I went because I've developed rosacea. The doctor entered the room and I was asked 'do you want to take all of your clothes off?' Nope, just my face. I understand some may want a full exam - but, to say it like that was jarring and creepy. Looked at my face, then handed me 2 pages of written information and immediately asked if I had any questions. Hard to absorb all that info on the pages in 30 seconds. Was told I could take a prescription - but, had to sign a waiver because 'the government requires it' and if I get pregnant 'the baby will be retarded and I'll need an abortion'. There was a bit more weird comments, but I think that's enough to get the general idea. 0 stars for the interaction; I will say the scheduling was easy and wait time at the office was minimal. read more

Awesome experience. Super efficient and pragmatic Doctor! I would definitely go back.

I'm very grateful for doctors like Dr. Ernest Bloom. I wish all doctors had similar approaches to patient care. I've seen him twice in 10 months and both visits have been very positive and quite helpful. I don't know the official term for the type of practice he runs, but I consider it quite integrative. He's helped me heal my skin in person, as well as made great suggestions on how to heal my skin and more from the inside out, so that I can create healthier skin going forward. He takes his time and gets to know what's going on with my overall health to get an idea of the bigger picture, versus looking at just one thing; so he's better able to assist me in restoring all of me to perfect health. The staff is very friendly too. I don't know how I found him, but I'm extremely grateful I did, as I've seen quite a few dermatologists in my lifetime and never felt in resonance with any of them until I met Dr. Bloom. His office is a bit of a drive for me, but his approach and expertise are worth it. I appreciate how he does his best to address not just the symptoms of disease, but the root causes. I highly recommend Dr. Bloom to anyone who understands that creating and maintaining health (external and internal) is a do-it-yourself proposition. read more

This doctor is a Quack! I was referred to Dr. Boom by my family physician. I went to see him about my skin condition. He explain that it is Eczema and gave me three ointments to apply. None of them worked, so I went back to see him. This Quack didn't even look at my chart, if he would have he would of saw that he prescribe me the same dam ointments that he had previously given me and said he will have to refer me to another doctor. He said he would submit the paperwork on Friday and call the other doctor on Monday. I did and nothing was sent. After that, I tried to call Dr. Boom's office and had to leave messages. They NEVER called me back. I see why he has only 3 1/4 stars What a QUACK I FILED A GRIEVANCE THROUGH MY INSURANCE COMPANY AGAINST HIM! read more

He prescribed both my husband and myself medication that was contraindicated for us. My husband's pharmacy caught it before anything happened to him, but I had serious problems. I legitimately worry about this doctor. My son was also a patient and I won't let him return to this practice. read more

It's a wonder where the other reviews come from. Bloom continues to be dismissive, judgemental, and acts with a sense of urgency to hurry out the patient, echoing off previous reviews from years ago. Did not open the room for conversation about alternatives for treating acne, only his method, nor asked/cared about previous history about what I have already done personally or with other previous dermatologists. read more

Absolutely 5-star experience! Dr. Bloom is one of the most intelligent, thoughtful, and caring doctors I've met. Always pleasant and patient, he takes extra time to listen to me and explains what going on in a very comprehensive manner. Moreover, he is always spot on and his recommendations always do the trick to help clear up my skin issues. If you're looking for a highly experienced, intelligent, patient-centered dermatologist in the Bay Area, look no further. Dr. Bloom is the one you should see! read more

As someone who is pursuing a career in medicine, he is the definition of a doctor that I do not want to become. Dr. Bloom was very unprofessional and made some extremely uncomfortable comments. From my first interactions with this office, I already got bad vibes. The receptionist who scheduled my appointment was rude. She asked for my number, address, and email at the same time and I politely ask her which one she preferred first (IK redundant) and she said, "It doesn't matter, we are a very busy office (she repeated this twice), just any is fine" - as if I was wasting her time. A couple of weeks later and I come in for the appointment. Dr. Bloom spent a FEW minutes noting my past history and my concerns, barely looking at my skin. Without talking to me about the different treatment options, he told me that he will give me some meds to help me and he left the room to write the prescriptions, which I thought was strange and rushed. He came back a few minutes later with the prescriptions. As recommended by my PA-C, I wanted to try spironolactone to control my hormonal acne, so I asked him if I was a good candidate for spiro and he said yeah, we can try it out, and proceeds to write that prescription for me. AND THIS IS WHERE IT WENT DOWN. Dr. Bloom: Are you currently on birth control or are you in abstinence? Me: I am not on BC because I am not sexually active at the moment. Dr. Bloom: okay so in abstinence, how are you....? (He was tryna ask how I am keeping myself from getting pregnant since spiro is an anti-androgen that can cause harm to the fetus) Me: oh, I am currently studying for my MCAT so I am in abstinence. Dr. Bloom: Okay, let me prescribe you this (plan b) just in case you got sexually assaulted. I was silent because I wasn't sure if I heard him correctly. As he was finishing the prescriptions, I asked him if there are any side effects with Spiro and he simply said "no." At that point, I no longer trust his judgments because I KNOW DAMN RIGHT THERE ARE SIDE EFFECTS. After this, he handed me the prescription with 5 different drugs. Keep in mind that he still has not told me about the medications he prescribed, their side effects, or how to take them. Before he left my brief and informal appointment, rather than asking me if I have any questions, he asked if I was Cantonese or Mandarin. I told him that I am neither, but I can speak both languages. He said, "Okay, so you are Cantonese, Ni Hao" and he left the room. I was so confused and speechless. Let me clarify for those of you who don't speak Chinese: "Ni hao" is "hello" in Mandarin, but my home language is in a different Chinese dialect because I am from a different region. For the love of God, someone needs to culture this boomer. When I left the office, I finally had time to look at the prescriptions that he gave me, and yup, he prescribed me plan B, but also doxycycline, which is an antibiotic. I was so confused as to why he would prescribe me that because during the consultation, I explicitly told him that I was previously on antibiotics, but they did not work. I am lucky to have done some prior research on medications because the dosage that he prescribed me was concernedly high. He started me with 200mg of doxycycline and 100mg of spiro daily. I am someone who is very sensitive to new medications and I would have preferred it if he educated me on the drugs and gave me the option to start with lower dosages. The way that Dr. Bloom runs his practice and treats his patients is very outdated and can be harmful to their health outcomes. I took 50mg of spiro (half of his prescribed dosage) for 2 days and I felt super lightheaded; safe to say that I am not going to take the meds he prescribed me anymore and I will not be going back to this office ever again. read more

After years of using Proactive my husband decided to stop after our visit to The Face Shop. Our insurance covers visits to the dermatologist. I looked up and called a few in our area and near my husband's work. I called Dr. Bloom's office and he was available the hours my husband had asked me to make the appointment for. The office staff was really friendly and informative when I called. It was painless for my husband to go and fill out the paper work as well. He liked Dr. Bloom. He said he's a true New Yorker and has a unique sense of humor. He was very straight forward and my husband liked that a lot. He has seen Dr. Bloom twice now and has another appointment in a month. The face wash, moisturizer, night cream and medicine that was prescribed is working which makes husband a happy camper. read more

A terrible experience waited awhile For the appointment Gave me a list of things to buy on amazon The original problem i came jn for was overlooked real quick he called my problem one thing and then could not repeat it for me and called it something else instead talked to me like i was stupid , now i am not sure what i have and will have to go see another doctor for a second opinion This appointment was a total waste of time. If your thinking of going here don't and find a new doctor like i will be. read more

I recently went back to have a minor skin irritation checked out by Dr. Bloom. After checking in and waiting a couple of minutes I was brought to the exam room by his assistant. A few moments later the Doctor came in to discuss and diagnose my issue. We spoke about over the counter remedies and prescriptions that would help cure my minor irritation. I walked out of the office visit with prescription in hand. Three days later I am all cleared up. The doctor spent time with me and was not rushed in any manner. His office staff is cordial and efficient while being quite pleasant. Dr. Bloom is my "go to" dermatologist and I give him and his team five stars. Highly recommended!! read more

After visiting an urgent care center where my wife was given oral antibiotics, her condition worsened. She went to see Dr. Bloom who was Godsend. He diagnosed that she had a more serious issue. And directed her to go to Emergency to get it addressed. It was partially addressed, but my wife's condition continued to worsen. He was excellent following up on my wife's concerns and condition. and he proactively advocated for my wife who was ultimately was hospitalized for a week. He really went above and beyond for her! read more

If I could, I would give zero stars. Just RUN from him! I'm not sure where all these 5 star reviews are coming from, same verbiage, first time reviewers. He is unprofessional, creepy, and didn't even glance at my skin condition before he gave me a prescription. The medicines he gave me were all wrong, caused my skin to be painful and made my skin worse. I ended up going to another doctor to be treated properly. I wish I had seen his bad reviews before I saw him. He is hands down the worst doctor I have ever seen. Take my advice, run! read more

I promise you if u have skin problems please go see this doctor! He saved my face! My skin looks wonderful! I recommend him to anyone! I had breakouts scarring dryness! It's been 30 days and is almost perfect! read more

If there were a NEGATIVE 5 star rating that's what Dr bloom would get. All the sour reviews you read here are spot on. He sucks. Patronizingly sexist, flippant, cursory, in short, a total waste of my time and money. All I needed was my annual skin check for melanoma. all i got was 5 dashed minutes of barely looking at me, call me "smart girl" in a tone that suggested exactly the opposite (and imagine, would any man say to his adult male peer, "oh you're a smart boy" ? seriously? At least his receptionist wasnt as rude as some of the reviews suggested, but they do force you to leave an imprint of your credit card for future billings. I've canceled my card since going there . I certainly wont ever be back. What a bullshit operation. If you need a real dermatologist for actual medical issues, go elsewhere! read more

Since only my "recent review" counts (I've done at least 2 others), I will just repeat what I have said before. Dr. Bloom is an efficient and caring dermatologist. During each visit he will check my entire body for changes. Some treatment can be done in his office on the day of my visit. Other treatments that take longer will be scheduled in either one or two weeks. I have been seeing Dr. Bloom for nearly 3 years and can only give positive comments about his practice. Dan Lufkin Alameda read more

Absolutely the most unprofessional doctor I've ever encountered. After multiple times of telling me how corrupt the insurance industry is (thanks for the update, idiot) including while I was on the phone with my insurance company, he provided rude answers to the questions of my PPO Blue Shield agent. I would never recommend anyone ever going to this man. Ever. read more

10+ years ... Great Doctor Our family has been seeing Dr. Bloom for over 10 years - beginning in San Ramon (which was convenient) but then we followed him to Berkeley and now we drive to Alameda. Why? Dr. Bloom is an intelligent doctor who definitely uses his many years of experience to enhance his patients lives. We've seen him for acne (my kids all have beautiful skin, thanks to Dr. Bloom) as well as to have moles evaluated and removed, eczema and various rashes. He is never rushed, but he is efficient. His office is organized and we've never had problems with billing. Once when the pharmacy had a hard time working with our insurance, Dr. Bloom called them 2-3 times and worked with my insurance for over a week of back and forth until our insurance conceded to pay for the needed meds. We are fortunate to have found Dr. Bloom so long ago .. he is a great doctor, but also he's a nice man; we appreciate his dry sense of humor and 'real world' solutions to our medical needs. read more

Dr. Bloom and I have been on a skin journey. I've never worked with a kinder, more understanding dermatologist...(and I've been visiting them since my early teens). Hormones, environment, diet and age (sigh) contribute to many of my skin conditions. Dr. Bloom knows how to take on competing life factors and find manageable treatments for multiple skin conditions. Thank you, Dr. Boom and...lovely, wonderful, kind team. read more

Positive experience! I've been seeing Dr. Bloom for quite some time and I've always had a wonderful experience. He's very kind, experienced, and efficient in handling all my skin problems. Currently, I have a skin issue on my finger that was very painful and itchy. Dr. Bloom immediately diagnosed my problem in a warm and efficient manner. He's knowledgeable, professional, and caring. I cannot recommend him enough! read more

I read the reviews here on Yelp before booking my appointment with Dr Bloom, but I decided to go ahead since they seem to be 50/50. I saw him for my severe pregnancy-related acne. Without any preemptive questions or examination, he said to eliminate dairy from my diet. When I told him I have tried that in the past with no success, he was patronizing and condescending, saying that Japanese women don't drink dairy because they think it's strange (what relevance this had on my case is still beyond me). It wasn't until he discovered that I am a Registered Nurse that his demeanor changed; it was as if he now had a reason to respect me, whereas before I was a nobody and did not deserve his respect. He prescribed me a sulfur-based topical cream (which worked, and that's why he gets one star), gave me a handful of samples, and sent me on my way. His overall presence is rushed, judgmental and rude. As a nurse who works with many physicians, I would feel personally mortified if one spoke to my patient in the manner Dr Bloom spoke to me. I have defended doctors in the past who have bad bedside manner but are exceptionally competent in practice, but in this case, I believe Dr Bloom is neither pleasant nor competent. This review has been hard to type because I only tend to share experiences that were wonderful (see my other reviews for proof!). In this case, however, I felt so defeated after leaving Dr Bloom's office that I wanted to tell others not to bother. Find a dermatologist who will take the time to listen to your concerns. read more

Some of the recent bad review about this doctor is accurate. I normally don't write reviews unless they are good, but in this case, I felt compelled to let people know what an awful doctor this man is. He is all about making money and really don't give a damn about you as a patient unless he can profit from you. Unethical and just not a good person to work with. I was referred to Dr. Boom online. After a few days, he gave me a treatment plan and sent my prescriptions to Kaiser. I had to leave town to help my aging in laws move into a retirement home and memory care unit, so I couldn't pick up my prescriptions. I emailed the doctor and ask if he can re-prescribe to another pharmacy since Kaiser did not have my records on file. He was only willing to do it AFTER he receive payment. Now WHAT KIND OF QUACK doctor would make or delay a patience treatment for a mere $40 because he wanted me to send a check? I have insurance and he could have billed me. But his lack of care only shows that he is a greedy doctor who doesn't care about the well being of his patience is all I can say about this quack doctor. Take it from my experience.. do not go to him! He is not the kind of doctor that I would want to treat me. read more

Dr. Bloom is an experienced dermatologist who cares about his patients and goes above and beyond. He has been my dermatologist for over fifteen years and I would not trust another dermatologist with my skincare. He is always professional, prompt, and thoughtful. I particularly appreciate that he integrates natural remedies with traditional medical therapy, and carefully evaluates the evidence before making recommendations. I highly recommend his practice! read more

I'm awkward but full of love and always willing to help where I can... Dr. Bloom is awkwardly awesome! He genuinely wants to help. So far so good. I can appreciate the beauty of awkward individuals. We are awkward so as NOT to offend. Dr. Bloom is GREAT! It helps to understand your skin so as to relay the problem in the best possible way for Dr. Bloom to grasp your concern and address it as quickly and effectively as possible. I simply mentioned my history and what worked before to contest what he "naturally" would prescribe. With no hassle Dr. Bloom prescribed just that!!! I am team Dr. Bloom as he has proven to be team me within the FIRST visit. First impressions are everything!! read more

Receptionist was short/impatient and not very welcoming. Dr. was even less welcoming. Dr. was curt and just plain disinterested. Basically asked why are you here, and looked at you and mumbled what the condition is and asked what else. Didnt seem too concerned which is great but did not provide a reason as to what the cause of my condition. Just asked if I wanted it remove, which I did, which rEaLly put him out. Dr. poked at his ipad and said ok, see you then and walked away but not without saying I have other patients and Im busy. Hey I get it but manners are manners and concern is still a worry. I came because I was worried and wanted answers but you giving me a piece of paper on how or not to use sunblock isnt going to answer my question as to why/how. Be The Doctor. Dont be THAT doctor who is annoyed bc he has patients. Thx for at least confirming (I hope) that my condition is nothing to worry about. read more

Let's try this again - Play It Again Sam - for REAL . . . Dr. Bloom is by far the BEST doctor I've ever worked with. I say worked with because 1) I've done self-observation and self-diagnosis for nearly 40 years, and 2) Dr. Bloom is the ONLY doctor who's ever really " listened " to me. A definite " contract maker ". He's extremely knowledgeable across a wide variety of physical afflictions as well as causes and courses of action. In a word, or two, I'm " Most Impressed and Grateful " for his expertise, bedside manner, and willingness to work with my personal observations ( of myself ) and suggestions. Dr. Bloom literally saved my life . . . I recommend Dr. Bloom to anyone, especially those who can research their own condition like I. Dr. Bloom's receptionist and assistant are the sweetest and friendliest two ladies I've ever known in one office. God bless ALL 3 and I thank Thee all, you've been my saviors for 7 months and counting. Getting me past MRSA, Edema, extreme Eczema, etc. Thank you all, I bow in thankfulness . . . Sincerely, Mark W read more

First visit with Dr Bloom today. I have a history of skin cancers and I have rosacea. He addressed all, asked me to stop drinking milk ( the hormones) asked me to skip sugar ( I mostly do.. ) and gave me several over the counter and one prescription to pick up. I am hopeful. I found him fast paced, nice and to the point. I have been to 5 dermatologists in the past over the years. His bedside manner is fine. read more

I am surprised by so many negative reviews. Dr Bloom was considerate, thorough and very professional with me and listened closely to my questions and requests. He seems quite knowledgeable and has a lot of experience. read more

My husband's had a grand total of four interactions with Dr. Bloom, and each resulted in the kind of story that has you rolling on the floor laughing while silently wondering if the man actually has a medical license. The first visit (now affectionately referred to as "the 6 minute appointment") was for my husband to have two weird looking moles looked at on his back. Dr. Bloom examined them for less than 2 seconds and declared they were fine - but that he would remove them anyway so we'd feel better. Then he performed a "full body skin check" which involved looking between hubby's toes. That's it - just the toes. We were told to make a "20 minute appointment" for the actual mole removal. Appointment 2 - the much-anticipated 20 minute appointment: We arrived and were quickly taken to a room. Hubby took off his shirt and what happened next can only be compared to a Frankenstein movie. Dr. Bloom numbed hubby's skin and then used tweezers to pick up the mole and a steak knife-looking instrument to SAW THROUGH his skin. Surely with all the advancements in mole removal, this is not the preferred method. What's worse is that Dr. Bloom declared that he no longer uses stitches (WHAT?!?!) and therefore left two giant, dime-sized wounds on hubby's back. Fast forward three months, and we've been back twice to try to deal with the giant scars, which are puffy and brown and red and look terrible. The last time we were there, Dr. Bloom said, "There's nothing more I can do. Have a nice life." Okay then. read more

Unable to get any response from Dr. Bloom's office re test results to see if eczema is related to food allergies. Test taken 2+ months ago. Receptionist says we have to make an appointment with Dr. Bloom before we can get test results. Other doctors send us test results without requiring us to pay for another consultation -- especially if the result is likely to be "all clear." Receptionist claims that they are too busy to send test results. Poor customer care. read more