HYDRAFACIAL

HOW DOES IT WORK?

WHAT DOES IT TREAT?

HYDRAFACIAL FAQ’s

CAN ANYONE GET THE HYDRAFACIAL?

The Hydrafacial treatment is designed for patients of all skin types. Our Estheticians will carefully choose specific serums for your treatment to ensure safe and effective results.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE NEEDED?

After one session you can expect to see glowing and radiant skin. Most patients see visible improvements after just one single session. We recommend a monthly/bimonthly treatment schedule for long-lasting improvements to the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and brown spots, and to cleanse oily, congested skin.

CAN YOU COMBINE HYDRAFACIAL WITH OTHER TREATMENTS?

HydraFacial can work very well with many treatments and regimens. Before combining any treatment, we always recommend asking our providers before scheduling. We recommend waiting 2 weeks after Botox or fillers and 4 weeks after Sunless tanning before scheduling theHydraFacial. If you have any other questions, please call our office.

Want to Learn More?

Call us to schedule a phone consultation with one of our wonderful estheticians!

BOTOX

Each time you make a facial expression- frown, squint, or pursed lips – underlying muscles pull skin into creases.  Over time, lines and wrinkles become etched into skin.  Neuromodulators (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Jeauveux)  are a minimally-invasive option to effectively soften those wrinkles while maintaining normal facial animation.  Dr. Chaudhry brings safety and artistry to every Botox procedure.

Botox is a purified protein that has long been used in medicine.  Botox Cosmetic was approved in 2002.  Since that time, countless patients have discovered how safe and easy it is, in the hands of a Board-certified dermatologist, to look refreshed. 

With a very fine needle, Botox is injected just beneath the skin at precise points.  It disrupts signals from nerves that cause muscle contractions. As muscles relax, skin smooths out beautifully.

WHAT DOES BOTOX TREAT?

LUNCHTIME TREAT

Botox is sometimes called the lunchtime treatment because an injection session typically takes approximately a half hour. There is no downtime- you can go right back to work or other activities. Expect to see improvement in a few days, with full results in about 10 days. Depending on the area injected, rejuvenation lasts up to six months. Without periodic touch-up visits your refreshed, youthful look can last indefinitely.

Many women and men choose Botox as their sole wrinkle reduction treatment. However, Botox also works well as part of a comprehensive non-surgical rejuvenation plan. The doctor may suggest dermal fillers for lost facial volume, laser resurfacing to refine coarse skin texture, skin peels for radiance, and high quality skin care products.

DERMAL FILLERS

Dermal fillers help to restore youthful facial plains and reduce wrinkles. There are many FDA-approved fillers, each formulated for a specific purpose and area of the face. Dr. Chaudhry is a highly-trained, experienced injector who works with a full range of dermal fillers to provide customized treatment with optimal results. 

WHAT DERMAL FILLERS CAN IMPROVE

TYPES OF DERMAL FILLERS

All fillers work in basically the same way, adding immediate volume. In addition, fillers stimulate natural production of collagen for longer lasting improvement.  The board-certified dermatologist considers thickness and formulation, patient’s goals, and area of the face or body to determine which combination of products to use.

• HYALURONIC ACID FILLERS - We use Juvederm and Restylane families of hyaluronic acid fillers.  These smooth gel formulations fill lines and wrinkles, with minimal risk of uneven texture. Thinner HA fillers are ideal for lips and around eyes, while heavier formulations supply deep cheek volume.

• CALCIUM HYDROXYLAPATITE - Radiesse has microspheres of the same element found in bone and cartilage in a gel base. It is often used in areas needing significant volumizing. Over time, the body absorbs the calcium, but renewed collagen continues to keep skin younger-looking.

• POLY-L-LACTIC ACID - Sculptra is a deep volumizer, especially appropriate for those with low body fat. A series of injection sessions boosts collagen production for increased volume and skin smoothing that lasts up to two years. 

CHEMICAL PEELS

Chemical peels are cosmetic treatments that are utilized to improve the appearance and texture of the skin. They may be used on the face, hands, and neck.  Generally, a chemical solution is applied to the treatment area, which results in exfoliation and eventual peeling over days to weeks (some peels, while effective, may not result in much physical peeling). The new skin is often smoother, softer, appears less wrinkled, and may have less signs of sun damage. 

CHEMICAL PEELS MAY HELP IMPROVE

TYPES OF CHEMICAL PEELS

• Superficial peels - These use alpha-hydroxy acids to gently exfoliate.  This targets the outermost layer of the skin and is safe for most skin types.  Patients can expect smooth skin and a fresh, renewed glow.

• Medium-depth peels - Use trichloroacetic acid (TCA), salicylic acid, or glycolic acid to reach the middle and outer layer of skin.  These can be used on certain skin types for more deep seated concerns such as sun damage, superficial scars, fine lines. 

• Deep peels - Fully penetrate to the middle layer of skin to address more significant skin concerns; these peels often use TCA or phenol. 

Chemical peels, while effective, can have serious side effects. For this reason, a consultation with an expert board certified dermatologist is recommended for best outcomes and to guide expectations. 

JUVEDERM / RESTYLANE

As the face ages, it loses volume under the eyes, at the temples, and in the cheeks.  That allows skin to droop into folds or taken on a ‘sunken’ appearance. At one time, only surgical procedures could correct these age related volume deficits. Today, there are effective, nonsurgical alternatives. The ‘liquid facelift’ can be achieved with hyaluronic acid containing dermal fillers

UNDERSTANDING HA

Hyaluronic acid, or HA, is a sugar found in the body.  It binds with water to lubricate joints and keep skin hydrated internally.  The HA used in dermal fillers is formulated in a laboratory for purity and to avoid risk of allergic reaction from animal sourced HA. Expertly injected, these fillers add immediate volume. They also stimulate natural production of collagen, a fibrous protein that provides structural framework for the skin.

JUVEDERM

This family of dermal fillers is manufactured by Allergan, now a subsidiary of Abbvie. The patented cross-linked HA formula makes it one of the longest-lasting fillers available – up to 18 months.  The Juvederm collection of fillers include Voluma, UltraPlus, Ultra XC, Volbella XC and Belotero.

RESTYLANE

Manufactured by Galderma, this family of fillers also has a superb collection of hyaluronic acid fillers, each with unique properties that can help you reach your volumizing goals. The Restylane family of fillers include Restylane-L, Kysse, Lyft, Refyne, and Defyne.

Want to find out more?

Call Stone Ridge Dermatology today to see if Juvederm or Restylane is right for you!

KYBELLA

Kybella is an FDA approved treatment for submental fullness, the dreaded ‘double chin’. 

WHAT IS KYBELLA?

Your body naturally produces a substance called deoxycholic acid in the digestive track.  It helps to break down fats in the foods you eat.  Kybella contains deoxycholic acid formulated in a laboratory.  Injected beneath the chin, it dissolves submental fat, for a slimmer neck, refined jawline, and a trimmer profile. 

WHAT TO EXPECT

• MULTIPLE INJECTIONS - 20+ done with a very fine little, tolerated very well by most patients

• SEVERAL VISITS - each patient is different, but plan on up to six injection sessions, spaced a month apart, for optimal improvement. 

• MILD SIDE EFFECTS - There may be swelling, tenderness, tingling, firmness, numbness, pink skin, or bruising in the treatment area.  These conditions generally peak within 24-48 hours and resolve over a few days.

• BEAUTIFUL RESULTS - You may begin to see a reduction in fat after the first treatment, with continued improvement for a month or more after the last session.

• LASTING BENEFIT - The adult body does stop making new fat cells, so once they are destroyed locally, they are gone for good.  There is also evidence that Kybella tightens skin by stimulating collagen production, for lasting improvement. 

Want to Learn More?

Call Stone Ridge Dermatology today to see if Kybella is right for you!

MICRONEEDLING

So, is there one minimally invasive aesthetic treatment that can improve acne scarring and signs of aging, restoring natural radiance to the skin without extensive downtime? Yes – microneedling!

This is an outpatient procedure that takes about an hour, depending on whether you are having a full-face treatment, or a specific area treated.

• Skin is cleansed to remove makeup, oil, and environmental residue.

• A soothing serum is smoothed over skin to reduce friction.

• The clinician moves a handheld device with many hair-fine needles over the treatment area at a carefully controlled penetration depth.

• Skin is cleansed again, hydrated with a hyaluronic acid product, and protected with moisturizing sunscreen. 

There is essentially no downtime, although skin may be pink or have mild swelling for up to 48 hours. One day after the procedure, high quality makeup may be applied if desired. Usually, a series of sessions, spaced four to six weeks apart, are recommended for optimal improvement. You may then want to schedule periodic re-treatment to keep skin looking refreshed. 

BENEFITS OF COLLAGEN INDUCTION THERAPY (CIT)

Microneedling is sometimes called collagen induction therapy, or CIT, because it creates microscopic columns that break up acne scar tissue and stimulates the body’s natural healing processes. Within about a week, skin becomes noticeably smoother and brighter. The even dispersion of controlled injury builds a smooth network of collagen that, over several months, thickens and tightens skin, smoothing lines, softening wrinkles, and improving the appearance of acne scarring.

This treatment is an alternative to some laser therapies, which can have the side effect of pigmentation changes for dark skin tones. Microneedling is safe for all skin types. Many patients experience overall improvement in skin texture, including reduced pore size. In addition, microneedling helps to resolve hyperpigmentation- freckles, brown sun spots, and dark marks left by acne. 

THE OPTION OF PRP

Microneedling can be combined with platelet rich plasma (PRP) treatment for maximum benefit. A small specimen of your blood is drawn. Using a special machine called a centrifuge, it is separated into base elements. One of those components is platelets. Platelets contain concentrated growth factors. PRP has been used for some time in orthopedic medicine to speed healing and regeneration. Now you can enjoy the advantages of PRP combined with microneedling for younger-looking, smoother skin. 

PRP

PRP BASICS

Blood contains about one percent platelets. These growth factors attract stem cells, playing many critical roles from clotting to injury healing. They also trigger cellular renewal in skin and hair.

Platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy begins with a small sample of your own blood.  It is spun in a centrifuge to separate components. This produces a highly-concentrated form of PRP. It is reintroduced into specific areas to stimulate rejuvenation with no risk of allergic reaction.

SKIN REJUVENATION WITH PRP

MICRONEEDLING WITH PRP

We use a microneedling technique to strategically place PRP at a precise depth in the skin.  The device is a roller or pen containing many hair fine needles. It is passed over skin, creating a multitude of tiny channels through the top layer. Platelet rich plasma is then applied. A meshwork of collagen and elastin fibers forms around each of the microscopic controlled wounds as they close, with PRP accelerating the process.

TREATMENT IS RECOMMENDED FOR

The procedure takes about an hour, there is essentially no downtime, and it is safe for all skin tones.  Best results are seen within 4 to eight weeks after a series of 2-3 sessions, as collage builds.

SCALP PRP FOR HAIRLOSS

Few dermatologic conditions cause more angst than the premature loss of hair. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is emerging as a novel treatment for a variety of medical conditions, including alopecia, or hair loss.  Evidence is accumulating in the scientific literature for its safety and efficacy.

WHAT EXACTLY IS PRP?

According to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery, “PRP is blood plasma containing a concentration of platelets many times greater than normally found in blood.”  Various growth factors are stored within platelets (platelet derived growth factor, epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, insulin-like growth factor, transforming growth factor beta, and others).  Upon activation of the platelets, usually by a coagulation event, the platelets release the growth factors, which in turn trigger the pathways to cellular proliferation and collagen synthesis.

HOW IS PRP PREPARED AND USED?

PRP is prepared just prior to the procedure to be performed, in an outpatient setting, using a centrifuge, or other automated device, that separates whole red blood cells from the platelet-rich plasma.  This platelet-rich plasma is then drawn up into separate syringes and injected directly into the scalp at regular intervals using either a syringe, a microneedling device, or a combination of both.

WHAT TYPE OF HAIR LOSS IS PRP USED FOR?

PRP is increasingly being used in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA, or male/female pattern hairloss).  It may be used as monotherapy or adjunct therapy in addition to other known treatments such as hair transplants, minoxidil, or finasteride.  It is thought that activated PRP stimulates the growth and differentiation of the hair follicle stem cells by different pathways.  This stimulates hair growth.

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR PRP AND WHEN CAN PATIENTS EXPECT RESULTS?

Most patients are good candidates for PRP therapy, because it has relatively few side effects.  Contraindications include a history of platelet dysfunction, clotting disorders, pregnancy, local or disseminated infection, and traumatic hair loss.  Currently, there are no universal protocols or guidelines, although most practitioners inject every 3-6 weeks for a total of 5-10 treatments.  Peak of maximum efficacy occurs after 4-6 months of regular treatments.

This is a novel and emerging therapy for hair loss and mounting evidence supports its therapeutic effectiveness and safety.  More studies are currently being done to further elucidate the ideal treatment schedule and to standardize methods.  If you are suffering from hair loss or suspect that you may be, a consultation with a board certified dermatologist is the first step in identifying the cause and formulating a treatment plan which may include PRP.

SKINCARE

At Stone Ridge Dermatology, we understand that the world of skincare can seem vast and daunting- it is!  Whether we break down fact from fiction, dispel common myths, or create a personalized routine for you, we can help you navigate this vast arena with unmatched expertise.  No matter your budget, we can help design a personalized regimen keeping short term and long term goals in mind.  Whether you are just beginning your skincare journey or in the maintenance phase, a review of your routine and products as well as personalized recommendations can revitalize your skin health.  We strongly recommend different products from different lines, including many outstanding over-the-counter products as well as medical grade skinceuticals. Sometimes skin procedures are recommended in conjunction with products for best results.

Want to learn more?

Call us at Stone Ridge Dermatology to schedule a cosmetic consultation to review your skincare goals and receive personalized recommendations.

SKIN REJUVENATION

Whether we customize over-the-counter or medical grade skinceutical recommendations, or help guide you through the daunting maze of skin care procedures (chemical peels, microneedling, PRP, botox, dermal fillers, hydrafacial, & more!), we are expertly equipped to help you meet your specific skincare goals. 

Call today to set up a cosmetic consultation with Dr. Chaudhry to review your skin goals and start moving toward better looking, more vibrant skin!

IPL Laser

Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy helps to improve the color and texture of your skin, and is for redness, brown spots, and photorejuvenation.

Want to Learn More?

Call Stone Ridge Dermatology today to see if IPL Therapy is right for you!

Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal uses a laser (a concentrated beam of light) to remove unwanted hair. Laser hair removal usually requires two to six treatments, with an interval between your treatments depending on the treatment location.

Want to Learn More?

Call Stone Ridge Dermatology today to see if Laser Hair Removal is right for you!