Dermatology Procedures in Chevy Chase, MD
The best things in life are yours if you can appreciate yourself.
∼ Dale Carnegie
Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy refers to the combined use of topical photosensitizing agent, 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) and subsequent exposure to light or laser source. It is a well established treatment for actinic keratoses (pre-cancerous skin lesions), however it is also being used for non-melanoma skin cancer, acne and more recently, facial rejuvenation. Varying the exposure time of the photosensitizer and choosing the proper light or laser source depending on the clinical indication is key in accomplishing the best results. Patients must avoid sun exposure altogether for 24 hours after treatment and wear heavy sunblock for 3-4 days.
For those patients whose acne has been poorly responsive to various topical and oral therapies such as retinoids and oral antibiotics, and those hesitant to undergo a course of oral isotretinoin, photodynamic therapy is a viable treatment alternative. Multiple, in-office treatments tend to be necessary for more complete and prolonged acne clearance. Side effects include transient redness and swelling and, occasionally, hyperpigmentation and blistering. Photodynamic therapy may also be used in rosacea patients who did not respond well to traditional topical and oral therapies.
A new and exciting application for photodynamic therapy is to enhance the effectiveness of laser and light treatments for such manifestations of sun damaged skin as mottled hyperpigmentation and fine lines. For instance, combined ALA-intense pulsed light treatments have been shown to demonstrate higher clinical improvement scores versus intense pulsed light treatments alone.
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Clinical Skin Care
Is there true magic in the bottle? Dr. Sommerville believes that of all the antiaging topicals currently on the market, the two most studied and proven topical rejuvenation therapies are retinoids and hydroxy acids.
Dr. Sommerville offers in depth skin care consultations and carries only select group of carefully chosen products from some of the most reputable, innovative manufacturers. Her goal is not only to reverse many of the signs of aging but to keep you looking great! Please call today to schedule your skin care consultation and benefit from her expertise.
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Facials
Beauty compels us; reason merely cajoles...
∼ Mason Cooley
Fire and Ice Facial
How is the Fire and Ice Facial different from other facials?
Fire and Ice Facial also known as an Oscar’s favorite Red Carpet Facial by iS CLINICAL® is a hot Hollywood trend for a good reason. This intensive facial based on natural botanical ingredients bridges the gap between basic medi-spa facials and invasive chemical peels. Fire and Ice Facial provides immediate results thanks to powerful ingredients such as unbuffered glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, malic acid, and retinol.
The rich, intensive, cinnamon-scented, skin warming first part of the facial is the “fire” component. It effectively exfoliates the skin reducing fine lines while smoothing, softening, and stimulating cell turnover. The briskly cooling second stage of the facial is the “ice” component which provides a soothing and hydrating treatment nourishing the skin with hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, green tea, licorice, grape seed and rosemary extracts.
Fire and Ice Facial has been featured on the Doctor’s Show. InStyle magazine in 2014 has chosen it as the Celebrity Facial of the Year!
How often can Fire and Ice Facial be performed?
In most cases, Fire and Ice Facial can be performed monthly for a series of 5 to 6 treatments in order to reduce sun damage, rough skin texture, acne breakouts, congested pores and hyperpigmentation while restoring a healthy glow to dull skin.
Is there any downtime associated with this facial?
Although there may be some temporary redness immediately following the treatment, most patients do not experience any residual peeling at home. This is precisely the reason why Fire and Ice Facial is favored before major Hollywood events.
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Lip Enhancement
Choosing a proper filler for lip enhancement is only the beginning. Proper injection technique and aesthetic sense are crucial to achieving beautiful, sensual lips that not only look but feel natural. Often, due to the different characteristics of various fillers that may be desirable for accentuating the border of the lip but not for filling its body, combining two different agents accomplishes the best results. A topical or an injectable anesthetic may be required to minimize patient’s discomfort. Depending on the amount and the type of filler used, it is important to avoid the lip enhancement procedure for up to 2 weeks prior to an important business or social event in order for transient swelling, redness or bruising to resolve.
At Chevy Chase Dermatology, we take the time to listen to your goals and concerns and we will take every precaution in order to minimize possible side effects. The risk of their occurrence can also be minimized by avoiding aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, Vitamin E, and other herbal supplements for 10 days prior to treatment.
