Category: CCSD News

Our Blog

Schedule an Appointment

Register Now: Virtual Mommy Makeover Chat with Dr. Niki Christopoulos

Dr. Niki Christopoulos invites you to an exclusive virtual chat regarding Mommy Makeovers on Tuesday, October 29th from 4:00pm – 4:45pm! Dr. Christopoulos, a Double Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, will discuss the combination of procedures involved in a mommy makeover procedure, show real patient results, and then have a real-time Anonyomous Q&A discussion. Names, Cameras, and Microphones will be private during this presentation. Click here to register via Zoom to join us, and we hope to see you there

Read More

Welcome Dr. Joy Tao to Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology!

Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology is excited to announce that Joy Tao, MD, FAAD will be joining our Board-Certified and Fellowship-Trained Dermatologist team starting this September! Dr. Tao is a St. Louis native who received her undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame. She completed her medical education at Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine and stayed at Loyola University Medical Center for dermatology residency, where she served as Chief Resident. Dr. Tao recently completed a prestigious Cosmetic and Dermatologic Surgery Fellowship at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York under Dr. Roy Geronemus. During the fellowship, she was a sub-investigator for numerous clinical trials of energy-based devices and injectables. Dr. Tao is looking forward to opening her clinic to CCSD patients beginning Friday, September 6th, 2024! Book your appointment with Joy Tao, MD, FAAD by calling our helpful scheduling staff at (312) 245-9965 opt. 2.

Read More

How young is “too young”, to use retinol? Interview w/ Dr. Solomiya Grushchak, MD, FAAD, FACMS

Particularly in the last couple years we have seen content creators on the mobile app TikTok inspire a number of cultural trends among all ages everywhere. Because of advancements in dermatology and the reach social media has, the beauty & aesthetic industry has exponentially grown. Beauty influencers can be attributed to this growth because they’ve built their followings reviewing everything from skincare products, to makeup, to the latest aesthetic treatments [ which then can become trendy ]. Many dermatologists and estheticians have also created followings on social media by reacting to product or aesthetic treatment reviews to state if what the original creator does is safe and effective, or not. Now, we are seeing children be influenced by this type of content to want whichever trendy product their favorite creator enjoys. Unfortunately, not all viral skincare is suitable for children or pre-teens. The office of Assemblymember Alex Lee states, “Young children exposed to this content are driven to buy trendy products, including anti-aging skincare, that are targeted to adult skin concerns, without receiving proper information about the effects or science behind the skincare.” No matter your age, it is important to cleanse & protect your skin with sunscreen. But how young is too young to be using anti-aging skincare? As people have studied dermatology and the importance of sunscreen, it has become cultural to incorporate a skincare regimen into their daily lives for healthy, clear skin. Traditionally the skincare industry created their products for adults to not only maintain & protect overall skin clarity, but to combat signs of aging, texture or discoloration. In recent years due to social media’s influence, the latest trend is the goal to have glowing glass skin. Ingredients in trending skincare which influencers claim to give glass skin can include many types of Vitamin A derivatives (AHA/BHA), Vitamin C, or Retinol. The ingredients mentioned can be harsh on sensitive skin - even for an adult. In most cases, a pre-teen using a product with one of these ingredients would be far too aggressive. Recent reports have detailed individuals under the age of 13 showing adverse effects to improperly using skincare with harsh ingredients suitable for adult skin. Media outlets such as ABC & BeautyMatter published news of a proposed bill, California AB 2491, authored by Assemblymember Alex Lee of San Jose. The bill, AB 2491, would effectively ban the sale of products that contain vitamin A or its derivatives, including retinol and retinoids, or an alpha hydroxy acid, including glycolic acid, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), or citric acid to be sold to anyone under the age of 13. Dr. Solomiya Grushchak, our Board-Certified Dermatologist & Fellowship-Trained Mohs Micrographic & Cosmetic & Laser Surgeon at Chicago Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology shares her insight.  “Having an age restriction on topical vitamin A or AHA/BHA for young patients is a sensible approach to enhancing consumer safety and ensuring proper product use. These ingredients can cause significant irritation and sensitivity, especially in younger individuals with sensitive and delicate skin. Additionally, pre-teens often don’t need potent treatments as their skin naturally exfoliates and doesn’t show signs of aging. Age restrictions would ensure users are better informed and thus prevent misuse or overuse, and fostering responsible retail practices that prioritize long-term skin health.” Since, on May 16th the bill was denied. However, this effort does raise awareness that being a conscious consumer of skincare is important. Just because a certain product may work for one person, it may not work for you. [ & that’s okay!] Everyone’s skin is different. Which his why consulting with an esthetician or dermatologist is important when choosing the right products. In conclusion, if you are wanting clear and healthy skin, or need new strategies to combat acne. You should first, consult with a Board-Certified Dermatologist or a Licensed Esthetician to receive a skincare plan that’s right for your skin type! When it comes to choosing a regimen, it’s important to learn which products should be included, and the proper use for these products. Improper use of any product can result in adverse effects and is why it’s important to make sure you are properly educated. If you’re looking for the right recommendations from the experts - Come to Chicago Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology to see one our our experienced providers, and shop at Chicago Skin Science afterward! Chicago Skin Science is located within our practice and sells our products online as well. We offer domestic shipping & same day delivery within 10 miles. All products available ChicagoSkinScience.com are selected by our Board Certified Dermatologists to guarantee you’re only getting the best. Chicago Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology "Where our goal is to help you feel great in your own skin." Written by: Corey Lantz

Read More

Booking Now For Medical Weight Loss!

If losing weight is part of your New Year goals, CCSD is now offering a medical weight loss program! Semaglutide is FDA-approved to help with chronic weight management and stimulate weight loss. We offer semaglutide with Vitamin B-12 to help reduce appetite, slow gastric emptying, and promote better eating habits. The addition of Vitamin B-12 helps ease side effects such as nausea and fatigue. Studies show that patients see a significant weight loss when using semaglutide with B-12.  The CCSD Medical Weight Loss Program includes:   3 months of weekly visits and semaglutide treatments with our Physician Assistants.  With weight loss alone, one loses muscle mass loss which can decrease metabolism. To combat this, we offer a package of 4 EMSCULPT NEO treatments which further help with weight loss and maintain core strength.  Weight Loss Program patients can also receive discounts on skin toning and smoothing treatments such as EMTONE and EXION, to help keep you looking your best throughout your journey!  Weight loss progress will be recorded and monitored by an intuitive 3D body composition device, which accurately measures body fat, muscle volume, lean mass, bone mass and so much more!  We’re excited to offer this new program to our patients! Call us at 312-245-9965 ext. 5004 for more information and to start your weight loss journey today! 

Read More

Welcome Dr. Jennifer Croix!

We are pleased to announce that Jennifer Croix, MD, PhD will be joining our experienced CCSD providers beginning Monday, April 1, 2024!   Dr. Croix is a Board-Certified Dermatologist with a PhD in Nutritional Sciences (2010) and MD with highest distinction from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2012).  Dr. Croix also completed a highly competitive cosmetic fellowship at Union Square Laser Dermatology in New York.  Dr. Croix has contributed to numerous publications and research obtaining many accolades for her achievements.  She began her practicing in 2017 working in the northern Chicagoland area. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, reading, various arts and crafts.  We hope our patients will help us in welcoming Dr. Croix and call our office to book your next appointment with her, 312-245-9965. 

Read More

CCSD Patient Communication Policy

As part of our commitment to providing you with the best possible healthcare experience, we are excited to announce an important update to our communication system. Starting January 1, 2024, we will be transitioning to a secure and efficient patient communication process using our current patient portal software, MyPatientVisit. This change is aimed at enhancing the security of your personal health information (PHI) and streamlining the communication process between you and our providers at our medical practice. All patient communication, including but not limited to medication refills, appointment rescheduling, sending messages to your CCSD provider, uploading essential documents (insurance cards, valid government-issued IDs), medical record requests, and any other pertinent information/documents will now need to be conducted through the MyPatientVisit Patient portal. Here are the key points to note: MyPatientVisit Patient Portal: To access the portal, please visit MyPatientVisit. If you are a New Patient to our practice and or have not yet registered for the portal, instructions for registration will be sent to your registered email address. If you encounter any issues, our support team is ready to assist you. Scheduling Appointments: You can continue to schedule appointments through the following channels: Call our main office line: 312-245-9965 (option 2 for scheduling). Text us at 312-245-9965. Online booking through our website Please note, our previous email method of communication ([email protected]) is no longer being monitored. An automated response will be sent to the sender informing them they will have to message via MyPatientVisit in their patient portal. Should they need a more immediate response, they will need to contact our office at 312-245-9965 option 2 to speak to a receptionist. We understand that changes like these may take some getting used to, but we believe that this transition will ultimately result in a more seamless and secure patient experience. If you have any questions or need assistance with the MyPatientVisit portal, please don't hesitate to reach out to our support team at 312-245- 9965 option 2 to speak with a receptionist. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work to improve our services for you. We appreciate the opportunity to continue serving your healthcare needs. Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology S.C. Office Line: 312-245-9965 Office Fax: 312-245-9964 https://chicagodermatology.com/

Read More

Welcome to CCSD Nicoletta Ciraulo, PA-C!

Nicoletta is a native of Macomb, Michigan and graduated from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor where she obtained her Bachelor of Science and majored in Neuroscience. She attended Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science in North Chicago, IL where she received her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Practice. After PA school in Chicago, she moved back to Ann Arbor for a few years to provide medical dermatological care at a private practice. Nicoletta Ciraulo, PA-C has accreditations from: National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA) American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) Nicoletta is passionate about fostering long-term patient relationships and empowering patients to become educated and involved decision-makers in their own care!

Read More

Welcome, Dr. Solomiya Grushchak!

CCSD welcomes Solomiya Grushchak, MD and her patients to CCSD. Dr. Grushchak is a Board-Certified Dermatologist and a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Micrographic and Cosmetic & Laser Surgeon. She is a Ukrainian born, Chicago-native who received her undergraduate degree and Doctor of Medicine from the Honors Program at Loyola University Chicago. She obtained her Doctor of Medicine at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine. To better serve the needs of her patients, Dr. Grushchak continued her training at the University of California - Irvine, specializing in cutaneous oncology, Mohs micrographic surgery, reconstruction, aesthetic medicine, and laser surgery. She has published over 30 research manuscripts and book chapters in facial anatomy and skin cancer, presents regularly at national conferences, and ongoingly strives to improve her professional acumen. Dr. Grushchak’s clinical interests include skin cancer surveillance, Mohs micrographic surgery and reconstruction (She has performed over 650 Mohs cases!) and surgical treatment of scars. She also performs cosmetic injectables and laser treatments. Her aim is to foster a warm and open environment for her patients. Dr. Grushchak is fluent in English and Ukrainian, elementary in Polish and Russian, and is currently learning Spanish! We hope our patients will help us in welcoming Dr. Grushchak and call our office to book your next appointment with her, 312-245-9965.

Read More

Welcome EMSELLA to CCSD 

CCSD is happy to present our latest device. Welcome EMSELLA! This unique technology revolutionizes the intimate health and wellness category by providing those suffering from incontinence with a completely non-invasive option. Stress incontinence is when there is exerted pressure on the bladder causing leakage. This can be caused by coughing, laughing, sneezing, or exercising. EMSELLA utilizes HIFEM electromagnetic energy to deliver thousands of supramaximal pelvic floor muscle contractions in a single session, that you would not be able to do on your own. This treatment can be beneficial for both men & women.   EMSELLA consists of 6, 30-min treatments, performed twice a week. Some patients notice improvement after a single session, with results typically continuing to improve over the following weeks after the final treatment. Studies confirm 95% of patients report an improved quality of life!   CCSD now offers the Core to Floor experience. This therapy utilizes two HIFEM devices, EMSCULPT NEO and EMSELLA to strengthen, firm and tone the abdomen and pelvic floor muscles. This combination therapy improves neuromuscular control, strength, balance, intimacy, and vitality. It’s a fantastic solution for women and men of all ages including athletes, women who have been pregnant, and people who want to maintain or regain quality of life.  If you’re interested in a consultation, call our office at 312-245-9965 opt 2.  

Read More

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

Contact Us Today! Schedule an Appointment

Skip to content