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The Best CSS Skincare For The Summer

Summertime in Chicago means long beach days, weekend trips and relaxing with friends and family at the park. (plus so much more!!) Here are some of our very own Chicago Skin Science products we carry that are perfect for the hot summer days ahead. Whether it’s clogged pores, hyperpigmentation or just sun protection, here are just SOME of the best CSS skincare products for the Summer: First and Foremost – SUNSCREEN! EltaMD Clear SPF 46: A CCSD Staff and Patient favorite!! Formulated with high-purity Niacinamide to help reduce the appearance of blemishes, discoloration, and photo-damaged Skin. Available in Tinted or non-tinted and great for acne-prone skin! EltaMD Daily SPF 40: A sheer SPF with lightweight moisturizers, formulated with hyaluronic acid. Available in Tinted or non-tinted! EltaMD Elements SPF 44: A chemical-free tinted sunscreen, purely physical with a universal tint – one of Dr. Rachel Pritzker’s favorite SPF’s! Congested Skin Be Gone! Cleansers For All Skin Revision Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser: Just one bottle is a 3-month supply! This soap and sulfate free formula also contains unique amino acids that provides a comfortable clean feeling to even the most irritated and dry skin. Because let’s face it, your skin can also get dehydrated too with this sun! EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser: This PH balancing foaming cleanser contains bromelain enzymes to gently exfoliate but not overly strip the skin. Perfect for those wanting a clean feeling without compromising the skin’s moisture barrier. Also available in a travel size perfect for weekend getaways! Get Your Tone On This Summer! Revision Exfoliating Facial Rinse: This bad boy should definitely last the whole summer because it’s a professional-size of 16 fl. oz.! If you’re prone to acne or blocked comedones, this is the toner for you. Containing witch hazel astringent, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid, your summer forecast is looking clear! PCA Skin Nutrient Toner: Need a gentler toner that’s still exfoliating AND smells like a Starbucks pumpkin spice latte? Then this toner is for you! Boost your natural brightness with this toner pumpkin wine enzymes. Hydrate Without Feeling Greasy Avene Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream: This gentle moisturizer will restore the skin barrier while not feeling too greasy on the skin. It contains D-Sensinose postbiotic derived from Avène’s famous Thermal Spring Water to help hydrate and keep any skin type feeling comfortable. CSS Revive Moisturize: Don’t forget we carry our very own lightweight day cream! This affordable cream contains hero ingredients like moisturizing ceramides and Vitamins A,C,E to fight free radicals. Summertime Antioxidants Are A Must! Skinbetter Alto Advanced: This isn’t your run-of-the-mill Vitamin C serum! Alto Advanced is a super-potent antioxidant serum that helps shield the skin against the effects of internal and external free radicals. Vitamins C and E, plus 17 additional antioxidants brings a new level of comprehensive defense. Avene A-Oxitive Water Cream: This elegant antioxidant only costs $42 and contains 1.8% ascorbyl glucoside (derivative of Vitamin C) which supports collagen and brightening. It also has Vitamin E for free radical defense, HA hydration, and mother of pearl  luminescence. Roll Back The Clock All Summer Long Neocutis Biogel Firm: We LOVE LOVE LOVE this PSP (processed skincare proteins) powered hydrogel! It’s super lightweight and is great for oily skin. Reduce fine lines and wrinkles, hydrate and tighten all in one product! Neocutis Journee Firm: Dr. Carolyn Jacob‘s holygrail skincare product! This one-and-done anti-aging product contains PSP technology, protecting antioxidants AND an SPF of 30! Just use in the AM and you’re ready to go!

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Product of the Week: Alastin HA Immerse Serum

Designed to immerse your skin with moisture at the surface, this newest groundbreaking product from Alastin Skincare helps amplify the skin’s natural ability to create hyaluronic acid deep within for fuller, more youthful-looking skin over time. Our product of the week, Alastin HA Immerse Serum, not only instantly hydrates the skin, but also contains Octapeptide-45, which aids the skin’s ability to naturally increase its own high-molecular hyaluronic acid production deep within the skin for long-term, skin-plumping, anti-aging, and hydration benefits. This form of HA is the same molecular weight as the HA naturally found deep within your skin. That means it delivers the form of HA that your body needs, helping to promote plumper, more hydrated skin in a natural way. HA IMMERSE SERUM layers seamlessly under makeup and other skincare and is recommended for daily use as well as complementing dermal fillers. What is Hyaluronic Acid? Hyaluronic acid (HA) is one of the hottest ingredients in skincare right now! It has the power to hydrate, making skin look instantly dewy and plump, while decreasing the appearance of roughness, fine lines, and wrinkles. But what is hyaluronic acid exactly? Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, a substance with the ability to retain moisture, that occurs naturally in the body. Your skin’s natural HA is responsible for volume, moisture, and plumpness. Along with age, external factors like sun damage, smoking, and diet decreases  hyaluronic acid production, causing signs of aging. When used in skincare, hyaluronic acid is considered an extremely powerful hydrator that’s great for all skin types. It acts as a humectant with the ability to hold 1,000 times its weight in water, HA is one of the most effective hydrators out there. What Makes HA Immerse Serum Different? There are dozens of hyaluronic acid serums on the market—but not all hyaluronic acid products are created equal. When comparing HA products you’ll find two central differences: the molecular size of HA used and additionally ingredients the product contains. Alastin HA Immerse Serum is a breakthrough and clinically-proven formula that both immediately hydrates skin at the surface while also increasing the skin’s natural ability to create hyaluronic acid (HA) deep within. For instant hydration, HA Immerse Serum utilizes the most essential form of hyaluronic acid, high-molecular HA, that mimics the HA naturally found in the skin. For deeper hydration, Alastin developed a proprietary peptide, Octapeptide-45, which helps the body’s ability to naturally stimulate the production of hyaluronic acid for long-lasting hydration. Alastin’s HA Immerse Serum includes additional ingredients to further promote skin hydration. Large molecule Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer supports the skin’s ability to retain moisture, while Silver Mushroom Extract provides and encourages additional skin hydration. Hexapeptide-11 helps prevent the production of enzymes that breakdown HA, helping your body’s ability preserve its natural HA.

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Just Added: Heliocare Ultra

Summer is just around the corner! In anticipation of more sunnier days ahead, we just added Heliocare Ultra to our store! Only available from Dermatology offices, Heliocare Ultra helps maintain your skin’s ability to protect itself against the aging effects of free radicals. An antioxidant should be a vital step in your skincare routine, so protect yourself from the inside out! What Are Free Radicals? Free radicals are everywhere. We are exposed to free radicals every day. Alcohol, tobacco, chemicals, and sun radiation are all common ways we are exposed. Antioxidants can help! Fighting free radicals with antioxidants helps replace their missing electrons and disrupts the damaging oxidation chain reaction. How Does Heliocare Ultra Work? But how does a capsule help your skin protect itself? Heliocare Ultra contains a double dose of Fernblock® Polypodium leucotomos extract (compared to regular Heliocare capsules), a clinically proven ingredient that’s derived from nature itself. Found in the wilds of Central and South America, the once aquatic Polypodium leucotomos fern adapted to live on land by creating its own protection from the harsh effects of free radicals in the environment. For centuries, this unique fern has been used to treat many skin-related conditions, promote skin resilience and a youthful appearance! Click here to read a scientific publication on Polypodium leucotomos extract. Start Defending Your Skin! Daily Heliocare use helps protect your skin from the effects of free radicals that can cause wrinkles, discoloration, and other signs of aging! Take 30 minutes before going outside (morning is ideal) IN ADDITION to your topical sunscreen. When prolonged sun exposure is anticipated, take a second capsule 4 hours after the first. Heliocare Ultra is also great for those who are sensitive to the sun due to medications or cosmetic procedures like Tretinoin, laser resurfacing or chemical peels. Heliocare does not replace sunscreen or sun protective clothing, but works in conjunction them! Buy Heliocare Ultra today, online or in our store!

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New Product Alert! Alastin Skincare HA Immerse Serum

What is it? The Alastin Skincare HA Immerse Serum breakthrough formula that delivers instant hydration for smoother, more radiant-looking skin — while helping amplify skin’s Hyaluronic Acid levels over time. Helps instantly boost skin hydration at the surface for smoother, more radiant looking skin. Proprietary Octapeptide-45 helps the skin’s ability to naturally increase its own high-molecular hyaluronic acid production deep within for long-term skin plumping, anti-aging, and hydration benefits. Provides both instant and long-lasting results. Helps to increase natural levels of hyaluronic acid in the skin which works to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Elegant, fast-absorbing, lightweight formula layers seamlessly under makeup and other skincare. Recommended for daily use and complements dermal fillers.   What’s in it? Octapeptide-45 – Helps to stimulate HAS2 in fibroblasts, enzyme that stimulates HA production. Encapsulated into a proprietary phospholipid delivery system for increased absorption and activity. Hexapeptide-11 – Helps prevent the production of enzymes that breakdown HA, helping your body’s ability preserve its natural HA. Sodium Hyaluronate Cross polymer – Crosslinked HA that has 50x more water binding capabilities than HA, it works to retain water on the surface of the skin resulting in excellent skin moisturization. Silver Mushroom Extract – Provides and encourages skin hydration. Hydroxy Methoxyphenyl Decanone – Potent intrinsic HA booster that also provides exceptional antioxidant protection. Xylitylglucoside (Zye-li-tal-glue-co-side), Anhydroxylitol, Xylitol – A complex of three natural sugar compounds that enhance the skin’s own production of hyaluronic acid. Who is it for? Anyone that wants a boost in their hydration and wants to increase their natural HA! Purchase in-store, online or through our Chicago Skin Science App. Free to download for iPhone or Android.

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Product of the Week: Avene Thermal Spring Water

“Today’s product of the week is such a multi-use product! I personally use this to set my makeup-or to get a refreshing hydrating boost post resurfacing treatment!” – Vivi, Retail Store Coordinator The Avene Thermal Spring Water has an optimal mineral composition that does not dry the skin. It calms, soothes and softens the skin. It also has a neutral PH which rebalances the skin. We also carry the travel size! A unique thermal water spray is bottled directly at the source and packaged in a sterile environment for guaranteed purity. Its composition is clinically shown to soothe, soften and calm sensitive skin. How to use  Hold upright. Do not shake. Spray onto the skin in a fine mist. Leave on for 2 to 3 minutes, then gently pat dry. Use as often as necessary. AM PM Key Ingredients  MINERAL PROPERTIES: Does not dry out skin, helps improve skin texture, softens and restores skin barrier BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES: Rich in postbiotic microflora to calm and soothe the skin Purchase your full or travel size in-store, online or through our Chicago Skin Science App! Free to download for iPhones and Androids.

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Product of the Week: Avene Xeracalm Balm

We’re going to let you all in on a little secret. The Avene Xeracalm Balm is a must have for babies and children especially if they suffer through dry eczema prone skin! This product seals moisture for up to 48 hours too which is amazing! Lipid-replenishing balm nourishes, soothes and calms dry, itchy skin prone to atopic dermatitis and eczema. Helps rebalance microbiomes while supporting skin’s defense system for healthy skin. How to use After cleansing with a gentle cleanser, apply 1-2 times daily to very dry areas of the face and/or body. Can be used in the morning and night. Key Ingredients I-MODULIA: Postbiotic complex from Avène Thermal Spring Water calms itching* while supporting skin’s defense system CER-OMEGA: Derived from evening primrose and rich in omega-6 to nourish, hydrate and help restore skin’s barrier AVENE THERMAL SPRING WATER: Clinically shown by 150 studies to soothe, soften and calm the skin STERILE COSMETICS: Allows formula to be free of preservatives, parabens and fragrance with its patented airless packaging Purchase in-store, online or through our Chicago Skin Science App! Available for iPhone and Android users.

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Product of the Week: EltaMD UV Stick SPF 50

Elta MD UV Stick SPF 50 EltaMD UV Stick SPF 50 is easy-to-apply, mess-free, residue-free sun protection that’s Dermatologist tested and formulated for the whole family and all skin types. Perfect for at home or reapplication on the road, this water-resistant, all-mineral SPF 50+ formula absorbs quickly, blends easily and works for all skin tones without leaving a white cast, and with broad-spectrum and antioxidant protection against UVA (aging), UVB (burning) and HEV (high energy visible or blue light) rays, you can feel confident with every swipe. FEATURES AND BENEFITS Face and body sunscreen Broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, HEV and infrared radiation) With 100% mineral active Zinc Oxide Water-resistant (Up to 80 minutes) Convenient on-the-go stick format, for easy reapplication Travel-friendly, TSA compliant Absorbs quickly and blends easily, providing a transparent layer of protection for all skin tones Suitable for adults and children Formulated for all skin types and skin tones Safe for sensitive skin Antioxidant protection KEY INGREDIENTS: Active Ingredients: 22% All-physical Zinc Oxide Ingredient Insights: Zinc Oxide: Natural mineral compound that works as a sunscreen agent by reflecting and scattering UVA and UVB rays Tocopherol (Vit.E): Antioxidant that reduces free radicals and mitigates the effects of UV, HEV and IR (infrared) exposure Oryzanol and Ethyl Ferulate: Lipid soluble antioxidants with excellent free radical scavenging effects to help mitigate oxidative UV damage Bisabolol: Naturally-occurring material that soothes skin from daily environmental stress Purchase in-store, online or through our Chicago Skin Science App! Free to download for iPhone or Android users!

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CCSD Hand Restore

CCSD Hand Restore The CCSD Hand Restore us a luxurious fractionated hyaluronic acid and green tea intensive hand cream that’s perfect for everyone! This ultra nourishing, non-greasy hand treatment therapy rejuvenates, soothes and conditions compromised hands.  It’s designed for multi-daily usage as well as in combination with hand rejuvenation treatments.  Key ingredients include Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin and Green Tea. Benefits Various low molecular weights of HA easily penetrate skin to ensure deep and optimal hydration Glycerin helps bind moisture to skin to maintain a healthy skin barrier. Niacinamide assists in brightening areas of pigmentation and evening out skin texture and tone Green tea extract is a nourishing and calming antioxidant that helps guard against free radical damage. Free of fragrance, gluten, oil and parabens Purchase in-store, online or through our Chicago Skin Science App! Free to download for Apple or Android users.

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Product of the Week: Alastin SilkSHIELD All-Mineral Sunscreen

“The Alastin SilkSHield All-Mineral Sunscreen is my new obsession! I truly have never felt this unique texture of sunscreen before. It feels so elegant and lightweight! It is a great alternative from our tinted Alastin HydraTint [Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36]. Now we have TWO Alastin sunscreen options!” – Vivi, Assistant Retail Store Coordinator  Ingredients and Key Benefits Lightweight, fast-absorbing, broad-spectrum sunscreen that blends in sheer. Hydrating, non-irritating formula helps to improve and repair the skin’s barrier function. Provides protection from UVA/UVB, IR rays, pollution, and blue light. Formulated for use following a cosmetic treatment and generally sensitive skin. Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and oil-free. Supports the production of new, healthy elastin and collagen. It’s a great anti-aging, moisturizing SPF all in one! How to use it Apply generously 15 minutes before sun exposure, alone or under make-up, as needed. Reapply after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating, immediately after towel drying, at least every 2 hours. Children under 6 months of age: Ask a doctor. Key Ingredients Zinc Oxide – 19.95% TriHex Technology® – Works with the skin to help clear out damaged elastin and collagen and support the skin’s natural ability to produce new, healthy elastin and collagen Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride – Supports the skin’s natural barrier function and repair Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone – Highly effective hyaluronic acid booster, antioxidant, and anti-irritant Ectoin – Helps provide protection from blue light and can repair existing sun damage within the skin Phytoene/Phytofluene – Powerful antioxidants to help further protect the skin Purchase in-store, online our through our Chicago Skin Science App!

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Nutrafol Women’s Balance

Improves hair growth with visibly more thickness peri- and post menopause. Target root causes of thinning like hormones, stress, and metabolism with medical-grade, natural ingredients that support your whole-body health. 21 powerful ingredients for better hair growth. Featuring patented Synergen Complex Plus®, a proprietary blend of clinically effective ingredients formulated with unique ratios shown to improve hair growth and quality. Saw Palmetto Combats thinning hair by helping to block production of DHT. Maca Adaptogen known to support hormone health before, during, and after menopause. Sensoril® Ashwagandha Balances stress hormones to support the hair growth cycle. Purchase in-store, online, or through our Chicago Skin Science App!

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Product of the Week: iS Clinical Active Serum

This week’s product of the week is one of Vivi’s personal favorites because it is pregnancy safe and botanical based! Since she cannot use tretinoin, during pregnancy, this baby here saved her skin’s life going through pregnancy hormones! She likes to call it the botanical version of retinol.    The iS Clinical Active Serum provides anti-aging, anti-acne and brightening benefits. Clinically-proven to provide both instant and long-term results, this face serum smooths away fine lines and wrinkles while softening the skin’s texture. It reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation, redness and acne, leading to a clearer and healthier-looking complexion. Ideal for anti-aging, acne, and hyperpigmented skin.    **Key Factors and Key Ingredients*** Professional strength Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles Diminishes the appearance of hyperpigmentation and acne Provides both rapid and long-term results Contains Derivative of Glycolic acid-Sugar Cane  Kojic Acid  Lactic Acid  Derivative of Salicylic -Willow Bark ***How to use*** Apply sparingly to clean skin, smoothing over face and neck (or as directed). This “active” product will produce a slight tingling sensation, which should dissipate within a few minutes.     Purchase in-store, online or through our Chicago Skin Science App!

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Product of the Week: EltaMD Moisture-Rich Body Creme

The EltaMD Moisture-Rich Body Creme infuses compromised and dry, flaky, sensitive skin with long-lasting moisture and essential nutrients. A wonderful daily moisturizer with a medium texture. Boasts a lot of benefits for severely, dry and/or sensitive skin but it’s important to note that it is also great for ALL SKIN TYPES! *Key Factors & Ingredients* Niacinamide (vit B3) and enzymes work to help smooth and soothe severely dry skin. Reduces redness, calm inflammation and restores suppleness. Luxurious, ceramide-enhanced formula promotes a healthy skin barrier and replenishes moisture. Moisture-binding hyaluronic acid, plant-based lipids and mango seed butter moisturizes and nourishes dry, flaky, sensitive skin. Fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, nongreasy and noncomedogenic 8oz tube *Directions* Easy – just apply after showering and/or reapply throughout the day as needed! Follow up with sunscreen when you’ll be outside. For the body only. Purchase in-store, online or through our Chicago Skin Science App!

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