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The Basics of the miraDry Procedure

Excessive underarm sweating can cause embarrassment and stress. Sweat also ruins clothing and may negatively affect your work and social life due to decreased confidence. Fortunately there is a non-surgical solution to combating excessive sweating that offers permanent results. How miraDry® Works: The miraDry procedure available from your dermatologist uses specially targeted electromagnetic energy to destroy the sweat glands under your arms. Because these glands do not regenerate, they will no longer be able to produce sweat, making this procedure ideal for permanent relief from underarm sweating. Only 2% of your body’s sweat glands are located beneath your arms, so you will notice no increase in sweating from other areas of the body and no drop in your ability to cool yourself. What You Can Expect from Your miraDry Procedure: Before your miraDry procedure, your underarm area will be examined and marked by your dermatologist to identify the areas that will be treated. You will be asked to lie back and relax, and your dermatologist will apply the miraDry to your underarms. The procedure itself is painless and lasts for about an hour. After your miraDry treatment; no exercising the upper extremities for 3 days. You will expect mild swelling that is controlled with ice and ibuprofen. Call Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology for additional aftercare instructions following your procedure. What Results miraDry Offers: Because miraDry eliminates the sweat glands beneath your arms, it is a permanent solution to excessive underarm sweating. For maximum coverage and efficacy, dermatologists recommend two miraDry treatments scheduled three months apart. Studies report that on average, underarm sweating is reduced in those who undergo two miraDry procedures by up to 90%. Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology was one of the first practices in the United States to offer the miraDry procedure to their patients. To learn more about miraDry, read our miraDry page and contact our office at 316-245-9965 to schedule a consultation with one of our providers.

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Visit These Sites For Helpful Information About Your Skin

Your skin is your largest and most visible organ, and taking good care of it will allow you to look and feel great. Take a look at these sites to learn more about treatments for skin conditions such as psoriasis and hyperhidrosis: Psoriasis may be triggered by a combination of genetic predisposition and outside factors. Learn more about known psoriasis triggers on Psoriasis.org. In some cases, psoriasis is accompanied by arthritis or joint pain and swelling. Find out how to recognize this condition early on Health.com. Learn more about how and why the body sweats on the website of the International Hyperhidrosis Society. Does underarm sweating negatively affect your life? Find out if miraDry is right for you with this information from the miraDry website. Read more about excessive sweating and what it means in this article by The Huffington Post.

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A Drink of Water For Your Skin: Hyalis

Ever feel that your moisturizer isn’t giving you enough hydration? Has your skin ever felt dry even though you have just applied a moisturizer? If you have answered yes to either of these questions then I recommend you give Hyalis a try. When you apply this fabulous serum underneath your current moisturizer it will deliver immediate moisture for youthful, radiant looking skin. It’s a must have product if you travel on a regular basis and your skin suffers from constant dryness. If you’re just starting off on topical retinoid such Retin-A, it offers instant relief with surface dryness and redness. This is often a common side effect when just starting off on topical prescriptions creams. My personal experience with Hyalis is that it gives my skin that glow and dewy, hydrated appearance. My skin definitely can’t survive the cold, dry winter months without Hyalis because it helps significantly with my surface dryness and skin sensitivity. It especially helps with allowing my night time moisturizer to penetrate deeper into my skin leaving it plump as well as hydrated. Some fun facts about Sodium Hyaluronate, which is the main component of Hyalis, is that is has water retaining properties that creates a sponge like effect, absorbing up to 1,000 times its weight for optimal skin hydration. This wonderful molecule will literally draw in your moisturizer deep into your skin to offer instant relief and intense hydration. It will smooth and plump skin with the highest concentration of pure, pharmaceutical grade Hyaluronate for maximum tolerability and efficacy. Tip…great for under the eyes! Soothes stressed skin during the dry winter months and following any cosmetic procedure and helps to speed the recovery process. Minimizes the signs of skin aging and helps restore radiance. Use AM and PM and you’ll see immediate results that you’ll love. Price $55 Julie Blecker is a licensed medical aesthetician who has worked in aesthetics for over 12 years. She performs a variety of aesthetic procedures including microdermabrasion, chemical peels and deep pore cleanse. She has a passion for aesthetics and making her patients feel great in their own skin.

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Meet A Member of Our Staff – Julie Blecker

Julie Blecker has been part of the Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology team since 2010. With over 12 years of aesthetics experience, she is a great resource to anyone who has concerns or questions about their skin. As a licensed, medical esthetician she’s seen it all. Julie has always been fascinated about skin conditions, treatments and skin care products. After attending college for a few years and being undecided on what path she wanted to take, she went back to her first love, skin care and enrolled in aesthetics school. Since graduating from aesthetics school she’s become an expert in product ingredient knowledge and worked with a variety of different pharmaceutical grade cosmetic lines. If you ask Julie what her favorite procedure and product is, she won’t hesitate before answering. Julie is a personal fan of PCA peels. She’s seen great results from having them done on a regular basis and frequently receives compliments about how her skin glows. Another reason that Julie’s skin glows is her use of the Clarisonic, a skin cleansing device, that removes 6x more makeup and 2x more dirt and oil than cleansing with your hands alone. Since using the device for the first time, she has seen and felt an immediate difference in her skin and has been hooked ever since. Like most people, Julie wishes she would have taken better care of her skin when she was younger by using sunscreen on a regular basis when she was a kid. “I wish I would have been more aware of the damage the sun causes,” Julie states. As she’s gained knowledge throughout her career, she offers this bit of advice for her clients, “Exfoliate your skin on a regular basis and wear a minimum of 7% zinc oxide sunscreen every day and don’t forget to reapply.” Sounds like good advice to us!

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Julie’s Favorite Product: Clarisonic Pro Face & Body

One of my favorite products is the Clarisonic brush. I’ve been asked by many patients whether it really works. My answer is always, YES! I have seen dramatic changes in my patient’s skin in texture, skin tone, brightening effects and significantly reduced number of breakouts.The Clarisonic has micro-vibrations that gently loosen dead skin cells and makeup making it more effective than manual cleansing. Clarisonic is the only brand that has been approved to be used after a chemical peel during the post care period. The Clarisonic brand sets itself apart from all other brands on the market because of its superior quality. One of the best features of the device is the choice of brush heads depending on your specific skin type. So, whether your skin is sensitive, acne prone or contains blackheads, there is a specific brush that would fit your skin needs. Also, the body brush and extension handle is great for use on the back as well as back acne and KP (keratosis pilaris). Cleansing benefits: Removes 6x more makeup than manual cleansing. Leaves skin feeling and looking smoother. Removes impurities that keep creams and serums from working their best. Gentle enough to use twice a day. Reduces redness associated with old blemishes. Minimizes the appearance of visible pores. Clarisonic has been on the market since 2001. The new Clarisonic PRO for face and body is available exclusively through skincare professionals, is beauty engineering at its most advanced. I highly recommend the PRO model to all of my patients. Also, don’t forget to register your Clarisonic online to extend your warranty. Remember, healthy, beautiful skin begins with the Clarisonic. Using it every day will make a noticeable difference in your skin. Your skin will be smooth, clean, vibrant and changed! Julie Blecker is a licensed medical aesthetician who has worked in aesthetics for over 12 years. She performs a variety of aesthetic procedures including microdermabrasion, chemical peels and deep pore cleanse. She has a passion for aesthetics and making her patients feel great in their own skin.

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An Insider’s Point of View | Latisse

...Miracle in a bottle. I have been using Latisse for four years and my eyelashes have completely transformed from average to fabulous with only one thing…Latisse. I often get asked if I have fake lashes on or eyelash extensions. I have tried the fake lashes but I’ve never been very good at applying them and so half way through my evening, they are usually falling out and can make for an embarrassing situation! My secret is Latisse. And it’s less time consuming and overall less expensive than the alternatives. My lashes look great with mascara but I can even go without mascara now. They have made my lashes not only longer, but also fuller and darker. And it’s very easy to use. Just apply directly to the skin of the upper eyelid margin and the base of the eyelashes (like using eyeliner) every night. It takes about four weeks for you to notice the effects but being patient is well worth it! Latisse is a prescription and can be purchased through our office. Give us a call and make a wish on your new eyelashes! Trish, Patient Entry Staff and Cosmetic Coordinator

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An Esthetician’s Point of View | The Truth about Peels

An Esthetician’s point of view… The Truth about Peels I decided to blog about peels this month to help clarify and put to rest some notions that peels are scary and require days of downtime. In the early days of peels, it was believed that the more aggressive the peel the better the treatment. As such, peels were composed of a high percentage of a single acids that had to be neutralized and rinsed off, leaving your skin with a sunburnt appearance for several days. Here at CCSD we use different yet equally effective peels when used properly. PCA (Physicans Choice Alliance, LLC) peels are different because it’s a layered and leave on treatment. The peel slowly gets released into the skin over the next 5-8 hours and you rinse it off. Minimal flaking of the skin occurs between days 3-5 and you’ll be sent home with a post procedure kit that you will use to minimize the potential for complications and increase positive patient outcome. Some of the benefits to having the PCA peels done are that they effectively exfoliate and brighten with blends of Lactic, Citric and Salicylic acids, and Resorcinol, while promoting an even skin color with Kojic acid and Hydroquinone. These peels help encourage a clear complexion and soften the appearance of lines to provide a more even and smooth skin texture. These are great for overall skin health and maintenance. Myths and Truths Should skin peel after having a peel treatment? No, visible exfoliation doesn’t determine the efficacy of the treatment. Generally, healthy skin has less visible exfoliation as well as patients that use topical prescriptions on a regular basis. Exfoliation often takes place at the cellular level and is not always apparent to the naked eye. Could skin be too sensitive for a chemical peel? Sensitive skin is defined as a heightened intolerance to certain topical products or external factors. PCA’s Sensi-Peel is formulated as a unique peeling option for all patients, including those with highly sensitive skin. To find out which PCA peel is right for you I encourage you to meet with me, a Licensed Esthetician. I am also certified with PCA Skin. (Physicians Care Alliance) The consultation is free and the cost per treatment is $200 and a series of 6 for $1000 and could be performed every 3-4 weeks. Julie Blecker,LME

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National Eczema Awareness Month

October is National Eczema Awareness Month Eczema or atopic dermatitis comes in many forms. From mild to more severe cases, there is a very high prevalence of this skin issue among the general population. The most common symptom is itching and a red rash, but frequently there are other signs and symptoms. It is important to have a good daily skincare regimen and treatment from your dermatologist to help treat and prevent the recurrence of this common skin issue. Please let us know if you have any questions about eczema as this is eczema awareness month!

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An Esthetician’s Point of View | Silkpeel Dermalinfusion

The benefits of Silkpeel Dermalinfusion. I have often been asked about the difference between regular Microdermabrasion verses Silkpeel Dermalinfusion treatments. I hope to answer and clarify these questions for you! Silkpeel Dermalinfusion is a non-invasive skin rejuvenation procedure which offers advanced exfoliation and then delivery of problem specific, topical solutions. The diamond tip treatment will exfoliate the superficial buildup of dead skin allowing the solution delivery to penetrate deep within the skin. The dated versions of microdermabrasion with aluminum oxide crystals will leave the surface of the skin feeling dry and dehydrated. It is also not recommended to acne prone patients as there is a risk of worsening the acne. What makes Silkpeel Dermalinfusion treatments superior to other types of microdermabrasions…the ability to custom choose the type of topical solution for your specific skin needs! Patients with acne, oily prone skin would benefit from the Clarifying solution of 5% Salicylic Acid which helps decrease the surface bacteria count as well as help speed up the healing process of current acne blemishes. Patients with dry skin would benefit from the Hydrating solution which contains Hyaluronic Acid and Chamomile to soothes and moisturize the skin. Patients with skin discoloration caused by photodamage would benefit from the Lumixyl solution which helps lighten as well as brighten the skin It is best to have these treatments performed in a series of 6 and intervals of every 2 to 3 weeks. The cost is $150 per treatment or a series of 6 for $800. Your skin will feel softer and brighter after each treatment, but the series will yield maximal benefits. Julie Blecker, Esthetician  

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Client Reviews

Love love Dr. Ibrahim. He helped me to find a combination that helps with my acne scars due to cystic acne in my teenage year. Just like anything in medicine, good things take time with a good skin care and medical grade products. I continue to see him for Botox concurrently with the acne scar regimen, so l can get a snatch jawline again. He is funny and a knowledgeable. The best compliment I had was when my patient see me every 3 months saw my skin recently and complimented on it. I have found myself not wearing makeup and only using tinted SPF.

— Huong Iodice

Dr. Grushchak is my favorite derm I've been to so far. She is very professional and has great bedside manner. Same thing goes for all the staff. I always see great results after leaving the office. The office itself is very clean and enjoyable to visit. Would definitely recommend.

— Krystyna Marynevytch

This is nicest place I have ever seen looks like a luxury spa. Everyone is nice and friendly. Looks amazing and they help me with my Personal skin issues. Whitney was awesome to work with . Great team work *** Appreciate everyone love this place

— Daniel Nino

Thank you to the friendly staff at CCSD for always making my visits pleasant and efficient! An even bigger thank you to Dr. Jacob for the phenomenal job she did all but erasing a scar on my face from skin cancer, and the amazing job she always does defying Mother Nature keeping my face looking young and alert!

— Christopher

Dr. Ibrahim is AMAZING. He has such a wonderful “bed side manner” and his experience is multifaceted. I go to him for both regular skin concerns and cosmetic reasons and he has been able to help with every issue I have! He is by far the best dermatologist I have been to and I recommend him 100%!

— Maddy

Loved results..and my daughter had microdermabrasion and beautiful results..they r so professional and very organized..appointment times right on schedule..no waiting. I would say this is the best place in Chicago..for any needs of the face. They are the experts..

— Rosalina

I am BEYOND obsessed with this place! From the front door staff, to the medical assistants to wonder women herself (Dr. Jacob) and her amazing counter parts- hands down the most magical experience EVER! Not to mention if you’re going here for cosmetic reasons, Dr. Ibrahim is an absolute MAGICIAN/WIZARD with injectables! My lips are the best on Instagram! I 100000% recommend this place over and over and over again!

— Kelly

I have lines above the bridge of my nose, wanted a more relaxed, rested look. I had a dysport appointment, it was ontime, my nurse asked if I had any concerns.I was a little nervous… Then Dr. Jacob came in, made sure I was comfortable. She asked if I wanted more of an arch in my eyebrow. She said it would really opened my eye area… 4 days later… Full effect…AWESOME results!! Very…

— Gracie

I’ve been seeing Dr. Ibrahim Omer for a few months now for some derm issues (perioral dermatitis, eczema). He instantly identifies the problem and prescribes appropriately. He is also great with taking the time to explain what’s happening, and how to manage the medications and creams once I get home. I’ve never done botox or fillers, but am planning to return for a little boost once my skin heals. The front desk is attentive, and appointments run on time. I’ve never waited more than a few minutes.

— Lindsay

4.8

1,000+ reviews

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