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Photorejuvenation
Using our new Intense Pulsed Light system, light energy is directed to the skin, reducing facial redness, pigmented spots and fine lines. For optimal results, a series of five or six treatments are needed at 3-4 week intervals. Patients may resume their normal activities immediately after treatment. In addition to the face, other areas such as the neck, chest and hands may be treated. Photorejuvenation treatments are a great treatment addition for the patients with rosacea, facial capillaries, and sun damaged skin.
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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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Intense Pulsed Light Therapy
Intense Pulsed Light therapy (IPL) is excellent for patients with multiple types of sun damage including lentigines (brown spots), mild wrinkles, mottled hyperpigmentation and broken blood vessels. It is also helpful in reducing the redness associated with rosacea. One of the mechanisms of action involved includes heating of dermal collagen leading to a reactive cascade of inflammatory mediators and subsequent collagen production. Without wounding the skin, we can safely treat the face, neck, chest, or any other area that has suffered sun damage and achieve a healthy, more youthful appearance. A series of 3-5 treatments spaced three to four weeks apart are required for optimal results depending on the area being treated and the degree of sun damage. Each session takes 30-60 minutes. The sensation described by patients feels like a snap of the rubber band on the skin. After the treatment the skin may develop transient redness and swelling accompanied by a tingling or burning sensation.
The results of IPL therapy will be maximized by preparing the skin adequately with an optimal combination skin care products containing retinoids, alpha-hydroxy acids, hydroquinone (a bleaching agent) and sunblock. Superficial chemical peels such as glycolic peels may be used in combination with IPL treatments to maximize the results. The peels may be performed at least one week before or one week after the IPL procedures.
Combining the use of a topical photosensitizer with IPL in photodynamic therapy has been shown to not only enhance its results but to reduce the number of treatments required.
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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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Read more about clinical skin care at Chevy Chase Dermatology
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Innovative Facial
This powerful anti-aging, smoothing, softening and hydrating facial reduces fine lines and encourages skin renewal by delivering the benefits of sugar cane extract (a source of glycolic acid), citric acid, apple extract, retinol, vitamin B3, aloe vera, licorice extract, grape seed and rosemary extract, and green tea. It awakens your senses evoking aromas of cinnamon spice and peppermint.
A popular addition to the Innovative Facial is an Eye Bright Treatment targeting the special needs of this delicate area to reduce under-eye puffiness and dark circles, encourage microcirculation, and provide maximum hydration. This soothing treatment delivers the benefits of hyaluronic acid, green tea extract, licorice extract, grape seed extract, rosemary extract, vitamin C, and other natural ingredients. The benefits of these in-office treatments can be further enhanced by daily, in-home use of the exceptional skincare formulations by INNOVATIVE SKINCARE available at Chevy Chase Dermatology. Please call (301) 656 SKIN (7546) and schedule a complimentary cosmetic consultation with Dr. Sommerville to discuss your unique skincare needs and concerns.
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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.
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