Chicago Skin Science

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Meet Meaghan & Lizz, Licensed Estheticians

We are pleased to introduce Meghan and Lizz, licensed Chicago estheticians, each handpicked by Dr. Carolyn Jacob for their sparkly personalities and exceptional skill. Meaghan obtained her esthetic license at Pivot Point Academy. She joins us with over 5 years experience working within plastic surgery and medical skin care specialties. She loves to be on the forefront of technology and product science, enabling her to provide the perfect treatment plan for each patient. Meaghan believes we all deserves to look and feel our best, every single day. She loves helping her patients achieve that goal and her favorite treatment is dermaplaning! We welcome Meaghan’s knowledge, skill, leadership and kind, engaging personality as our full-time lead esthetician. Lizz also obtained her education at Pivot Point Academy and has been a licensed esthetician for over 12 years. She is our resident skin care guru having spent a large part of her career managing the skin care departments and inventory at Sephora and other medical dermatology practices. There isn’t much Lizz doesn’t know about how to make your skin shine. She loves building achievable, results-driven skin care regimens for her patients and her favorite treatment is the customized PCASkin Peel. We welcome Lizz’s expertise, experience and relaxing treatment style. Lizz currently works part-time hours.

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Skincare BFF’s = Antioxidant + SPF

Guys, we’ve told you before and we’ll tell you again: Sunscreen alone is not enough to keep sun damage away. Before you have a freckle freakout and cry into your EltaMD, we have the solution! In honor of our awesome monthly special we wanted to spread the love about these two skincare BFF’s: antioxidants and sunscreens. So why do they work so well together?  There is significant research to show that antioxidants help prevent free radical damage that causes unhealthy or mutant cells. Sunscreen is still important because it prevents those molecules from getting to your cells in the first place. In short, adding a layer of an antioxidant serum or lotion under your sunscreen can add an extra line of defense for your skin and reduce photo-aging effects of the sun. Protect, apply and reapply! Here are our favorite combos: For: Acne or Combination Skin SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Serum + EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF46 Why it works: The SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF is oil free, containing 2% Phloretin, an ingredient that helps improve cell turnover, and improves the appearance of discoloration. EltaMD UV Clear SPF46 contains niacinamide which can help to calm the angry redness we often see with acne papules. Both have nice light formulations! For: Dry or Mature Skin SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum + EltaMD UV Daily SPF40 Why it works: The skinceuticals C E Ferulic contains 1% Alpha Tocopherol, a form of vitamin E, helping to neutralize free radical damage and replenish skin lipids. The EltaMD UV Daily (which comes in a tinted and non-tinted option) contains hyaluronic acid, the drink-for-your-skin water molecule to help keep skin hydrated. For: Men SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Gel + EltaMD UV Sport Broad Spectrum SPF50 Why it works: The comforting light gel texture is ideal for normal, oily and combination skin. It is proven to be well tolerated by men, particularly post-shaving. The EltaMD UV Sport SPF50 is ideal for swimmers, skiers, runners, golfers or those who just love to be outdoors. UV Sport is water-resistant so it won’t rinse off in water or drip into your eyes and sting when you sweat. For: One & Done Neocutis Journee Bio-restorative Day Cream SPF30 + Colorescience Sunforgettable SPF50 Why it works: Neocutis Journee is a multifunctional anti-aging cream containing a potent blend of collagen growth factors, hyaluronic acid, powerful anti-oxidants and a broad-spectrum SPF30 to help rejuvenate, hydrate, protect, nourish and revitalize the skin in just one application! Of course sunscreen requires re-application every two hours, so we recommend topping up with the Sunforgettable SPF50 mineral sunscreen brush, which feels weightless and fits easily into your purse or bag. It is perfect for on-the-go protection and skips the mess of traditional liquid sunscreens. No spills and non-greasy.

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Chicago Summer Skin Savers

Our warm, sunny Chicago summers are such a treat. With July 4th, Lollapalooza, and park-season in full flow we want you to be prepped and ready for all that time spent outdoors! 1. Avene Thermal Water: cooling and soothing! It always sprays at 52F for a refreshing boost no matter how warm the weather. 2. SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic: a powerful antioxidant helps to neutralize free radical damage from the sun and environment. This serum also helps your sunscreen work harder. 3. EltaMD Aero SPF 45: sheer but sure sun protection in a spray. 4. Avene Skin Recovery Cream: soothing and moisturizing for irritated, sunburnt or compromised skin. 5. EltaMD Lip Balm SPF 31: Lips need sun protection too! 6. Colorescience#Sunforgettable SPF 50: Tinted mineral sunscreen that’s perfect for reapplying over makeup. If you want to talk to one of our Providers about how best to prevent and protect your skin against damage from the sun please call 312-245-9965 today! Keeping your skin healthy and beautiful is our specialty.

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NEW Skincare: Skinbetter Science

Are you looking to spring clean your skincare regimen? New Skinbetter Science provides the perfect anti-aging solution with their three new core products: Alpharet Overnight Cream, delivers everything you need for overnight skin renewal. A blend of retinoid, alpha hydroxy acid, peptides, antioxidants and luxurious moisturizers to visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in as little as four weeks. A great option for patients with sensitive skin looking for a tolerable topical Vitamin-A retinoid option. Intensive Lines, a revolutionary hyaluronic acid based anti-aging product. A no-needle approach to smoothing forehead lines and crow’s feet wrinkles. Daily Treatment Cream, a cutting edge approach to collagen. Using an exclusive and proprietary delivery system to drive a unique messenger peptide blend to help skin appear more youthful. The lightweight texture forms a breathable moisturizing barrier to keep skin hydrated and radiant. This vital age defense product is a complete approach to skin renewal.

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Sunscreen: Apply, apply and reapply!

Being fanatical about skin health, we reinforce the importance of reapplying sunscreen regularly. For prevention and protection, your SPF needs to be applied everyday, rain or shine! Luckily for our patients we stock a variety from clear, tinted, lotion, powdered and anti-aging there is a sunscreen for everyone. Top tip from the CCSD team is to apply with your favorite cream or lotion based sunscreen and reapply with the Colorescience Sunforgettable SPF50 brush. This handy portable, purse-sized powder comes in three shades and is the perfect solution for reapplication on the go that doesn’t ruin your makeup! Stop by the office for free sunscreen recommendations, perfect for your skin type and preference today!

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NEW! Skinceuticals Tria Age Defying Laser

This at-home device partners the Tria Age-Defying Laser with state-of-the-art antioxidants for improvement in the visible signs of aging. A quick once-a-day treatment works to reduce fine lines, pigmentation and restore luminosity to the skin.  It can be used in conjunction with laser resurfacing treatments with your Physician or as at home maintenance. This awesome kit also comes included with a post-treatment antioxidant regimen, containing Skinceuticals C E Ferulic® and Resveratrol B E®. This duo is proven to replenish post-laser skin and improve visible signs of aging by protecting against free radical damage and supporting natural skin repair. In office now, the SkinCeuticals Tria Age-Defying Laser + Antioxidant System is sold for $695 and saves you a massive $180 on items bought separately.

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TOP 4 for July 4th – Skin Care Tips

Holiday weekends give us all the chance to get some much needed R&R and spend time outdoors with friends and family. Here are our Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology top tips to staying safe in the sun this July 4th. 1. Wear sunscreen! Whether it is cloudy or sunny, be sure to apply sunscreen throughout the day especially if you are attending an outdoor event or barbecue. We recommend application with any EltaMD sunscreen product, and reapplication with the Colorescience Sunforgettables brush. Stay sun safe out there! 2. Wash your face before bed! Throughout the day smoke, cooking oils and dirt particles may collect on your skin causing irritation, possibly even an acne breakout. Resist the temptation to hit the hay before cleansing your skin. We recommend rinsing with the iSClinical Cleansing Complex before bed, suitable for all skin types. 3. Don’t bug out! If you’re hiking or camping use a tick and bug repellent with up to 30% DEET. While very effective, DEET should not be used on very young children. Products with citronella and lemon-eucalyptus oil can also be effective at deterring bugs. Check yourself (and your pets) for ticks at the end of each day. 4. Stay hydrated inside and out! Drink lots of water and spritz skin surfaces regularly with the Avene Thermal Spring Water to remain cool and refreshed. A naturally soothing source for sensitive skin since 1743, Avène Thermal Spring Water is clinically shown to calm, soothe and soften the skin. Ideal for red, sensitive or irritated skin and perfect for post-workout, travel, outdoor activities or to freshen up makeup.  

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Dermaplaning with a PCA Peel

A staff favorite! Why limit yourself to one, when you can have both?  This effective treatment combines two champions of esthetic skin care, the Silkpeel microdermabrasion with a PCA chemical peel. Our experienced esthetician will tailor each treatment for your skin type blending both physical and chemical exfoliation to smooth and brighten your complexion for a photo-ready finish. This is the perfect treatment if you have a summer wedding or event to attend or if you are looking to revive your complexion.  For the month of June save 10% on a single treatment (regular price $150) and 15% on a package of 3 (regular price $400).

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Summer Skin Hero Product: Antioxidants

When it comes to anti-aging ingredients, research is clear: Antioxidants reign supreme. Not only do antioxidants combat the free-radical damage responsible for visible (and hidden) signs of aging but they also enhance the effectiveness of your sunscreen in preventing sun damage. During the day, a combination of antioxidant with sun protection is a strong defense against the many signs of aging, including wrinkles, dullness, and discoloration. At night, dosing your skin with an antioxidant will promote cellular repair and healing. Ask our staff about the best option for your skin. Revision Vitamin C Lotion 30% – $109 Skinceuticals CE Ferulic – $162 Skinceuticals Phloretin CF Serum & Gel – $162  

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Give the Gift of Great Skin this Valentine’s Day

Want your loved one to feel the glow this Valentine’s Day? Maybe you want to give a little (well deserved) love back to yourself? Be it our ever popular $99 microdermabrasion treatments or a complete body consultation with Dr. Niki Christopoulos, a Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology Gift Certificate gives you the freedom to invest in yourself, or your special someone. Not sure what skin treatment or service to try? Speak with our highly trained Patient Entry team to coordinate a cosmetic consultation with an appropriate provider. We also offer complimentary Reveal Skin Analysis with Julie, our Esthetician, so we can evaluate the right care plan for you! Call today to make someone feel special. 

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Microdermabrasion + PCA Peel

Twice as Nice: Microdermabrasion + PCA Peel Why limit yourself to one treatment when you can have both?  A favorite among our staff, this effective treatment combines two of the leaders in esthetic skin care, SilkPeel Microdermabrasion with a one-layer PCA Skin chemical peel. Our experienced esthetician, Julie Hamilton tailors each treatment to your needs using physical and chemical exfoliation to buff and slough away dead skin cells and brighten your complexion. SPECIAL PRICE At only $5 more than a regular Microdermabrasion for a limited time, you can revive your dry, dull Winter skin.  Book your appointment today and receive the Special Price of $155 (regular price $175). Go ahead, treat yourself!

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Christmas Gift Ideas and ‘Skinspiration’ at CCSD

Look no further than our CCSD skin care store for Christmas Gift inspiration! The Neocutis Skincare Kit is the perfect introduction to anti-aging products. Containing some Practice favorites, the Neocutis Biocream, Journee and Hyalis comes complete with a free travel bag all for only $99! For a real treat, invest in the Clarisonic Smart Profile, an ultrasonic cleansing device for face and body with four speed settings, cleaning your skin 11 times better than hands alone for superior results. For the month of December we are including a free Clarisonic Pedi replenishment kit with every purchase, while supplies last. Our PCA Pigment, Blemish and Dry Skin Bars make perfect stocking stuffers for all skin types. Use the bar after washing with your favorite cleanser as a mini-treatment mask for optimum benefit. Last but not least, we recommend the Colorscience Corrector Palette, a mineral based kit for hiding blemishes and suitable for any skin type. If you are seeking advice for a gift purchase, don’t hesitate to ask our staff for tips and seasonal ‘skinspiration’.

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