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Want To Know What To Expect During Your Comprehensive Microdermabrasion Consultation?

Wednesday, February 12th, 2020

When you arrive to your consultation, you will be greeted by our patient coordinator and asked to fill out a brief form regarding your skin.  It will cover topics such as your skin type, current medications, allergies or sensitivities, past skin treatment history, and your current skincare regimen.

Then you will meet with me for a full skin evaluation. We will discuss your skincare concerns, current regimen and your goals.  We will then determine whether or not you are a good candidate for microdermabrasion.  Microdermabrasion is often a good choice for those with minimal to moderate aging changes, rough texture, lines, blotchy skin tones, or minimal acne scarring, for those who want improvements in the way their skin looks and feels but do not want a more invasive treatment or those who have a busy schedule that does not allow for down time, and for those want to maintain their skin after having a surgical and laser procedure.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.  We want you to have all the information you need to make an educated decision. Once the evaluation is completed, if microdermabrasion is not an appropriate treatment option for you, other treatment alternatives may be recommended instead.

If it is determined that you are a good candidate for microdermabrasion, we will review the benefits, risks, expected out-come and contra-indications.  Should you decide to move forward, we will create a treatment plan. The plan will include the number of treatments anticipated and how far apart you should schedule each treatment.  You will also leave with a formal, written cost quotation.

We will also discuss your current at home skincare regimen, if you have one.  We will look at which ones will enhance your results and which ones we may want to discontinue.  Maximum results are obtained by consistently and simultaneously participating in an at-home medical grade skincare program.

What To Expect During Your Microdermabrasion Treatment:

Your appointment will last 35-45 minutes. We will begin by reviewing the condition of your skin, any changes since your consultation and your at-home skincare program if you have already begun one.

We will begin treatment by cleansing your face. I will then physically exfoliate your skin with the diamond-tome wand.  As we progress further into your treatment plan, we may increase the abrasiveness of the exfoliating tip as your skin dictates. This is followed by a glycolic application.  You can expect some light tingling for 1-2 minutes. Then we finally reach everyone’s favorite part…the soothing oxygen-nutrient facial mist!  The treatment ends with an application of Dr. Castillo’s premier line of medical grade skincare products and mini-facial massage. You will leave the office feeling relaxing, refreshing and ready to face the world!

Depending on your treatment plan, you are likely to schedule the first 3-6 treatments 2 weeks apart if this is your first experience with microdermabrasion.  Our maintenance or monthly club members are more likely to seek treatment every 4-6 weeks.

Working as a team is the best way to support your results.  I am available to answer questions, deliver information and education as it pertains to your goals. I will routinely review and evaluate your treatment plan and perform effective, thorough in-office treatments.  Keeping your regularly scheduled appointments, consistently following an at-home skincare product regimen and limiting unprotected sun exposure will assure that we are both investing in the same goal of obtaining the best outcome possible.

Does It Hurt?

The old saying “no pain, no gain” does NOT apply here.  There is no pain involved in Diamond -tip type microdermabrasion.  You can feel a slight tugging of the skin due to suction, with abrasiveness similar to a buff puff.  You can feel a light tingle during the glycolic application and just might fall asleep during the mini facial massage.

What To Expect After Your Microdermabrasion Treatment:

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There is no-downtime after microdermabrasion. You will immediately notice that your skin feels smoother and looks refreshed. You may experience slight flushing of the skin for 10-30 minutes post treatment. As we increase the level of abrasiveness in future appointments, it can occasionally result in small cat-like scratches that will resolve quickly. Microdermabrasion is a quantitative procedure.  This means you will see more results after each treatment.

You can apply make-up and carry-out all of your normal activities immediately following your treatment. Microdermabrasion, like any exfoliating treatment will make your skin more sun sensitive for a few weeks.  Be sure to apply the recommended medical-grade, broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen daily.

 

Roxanne Grace Hammond
Skincare & Laser Specialist
G. D. Castillo, M.D.
COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY http://www.cosmeticplasticsurgery.com

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800-252-7123 (within IL)
217-359-7508 Savoy (Champaign-Urbana)

 

 

 

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Ask Our Expert: Are My Brown Spots Sun Damage Or Just Age Spots?

Wednesday, June 5th, 2019

Ask Our Expert: Brown Spots:

 Q: Roxanne, I have brown spots on my face, arms and chest.  How do I know if they are caused from sun damage or if they are just age spots?

A: Lentigos, or lentigines are commonly referred to as brown spots, sun spots, liver spots or age spots.  They appear as flat spots in various shades of brown that appear on skin that has been over exposed to the sun. These spots can appear on the face, arms, shoulders, neck, chest, hands; anywhere the skin has been over-exposed to the sun. Typically, the lighter the skin and the more sun exposure one has, the greater accumulation or chance of accumulation of sun spots.

Melanocytes, which are cells that produce pigment in the skin are activated to produce more pigment (melanin) when you are exposed to ultraviolet rays. Because the symptoms of excessive sun damage are cumulative, these spots increase with age, hence the term “age spots.” They are more common in lighter skin types (Fitzpatrick 1-3), such as those who freckle and who burn easily but can appear in any skin type.

I recommend applying a medical-grade, physical sunblock such as Physical Defense by Castillo MD Skin Science, 365 days per year, to all skin that will be exposed.  Not only is this your best defense for future sun damage but  you may find that the brown spots that you have become lighter over time.

There are  treatments that can help to rid your skin of brown spots as well. CO2 Micro-Fractional Laser Resurfacing is typically an excellent option.  A series of Intense Pulse Light (IPL) treatments can also deliver very good  results.  Some chemical peels  can improve spots to some degree as well as skin bleaching or lightening agents like Advanced Lightening Complex or Spot Light. 

While sun spots themselves are not cancerous, if you have had enough lifetime sun exposure to develop brown spots, this may place you at a higher risk of developing skin cancer.  Therefore, it’s a good idea have your physician examine them for changes from time to time.

Warmly,

Roxanne Grace Hammond
Skincare & Laser Specialist
G. D. Castillo, M.D.
COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY http://www.cosmeticplasticsurgery.com

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM

800-252-7123 (within IL)
217-359-7508 Savoy (Champaign-Urbana)

 

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Posted in Ask Our Expert, Non-Surgical Treatments, Skincare & Aging | 3 Comments »

Ways To Achieve Remarkable And Beautiful Skin Characteristics

Saturday, May 5th, 2018

While sitting in a small room in a Champaign office recently, I over-heard an elated young lady boasting about the beautiful diamond she received over the holiday. Her gushing excitement was infectious. I found myself feeling almost as excited as she, yet I couldn’t even see the diamond!

I then began to wonder “what it is that makes diamonds or other precious gems for that matter generate that type of admiration.” I would guess most of us regard diamonds as a thing of beauty… but why? What specifically is it that makes girls go gaga over diamonds? Is it the number of carats? Could it be the shape of the stone that is so enchanting?

To me, it is the clarity and color of the stone. I would much prefer a petite diamond with such superior color and clarity that it shimmers and dances in the light, and highlights every curve and contour, to a cloudy, three carat diamond that lacks life and luster. Would you agree? Now, don’t get me wrong. I am absolutely a fan of big rocks. I’m not trying to fool anyone here. Size does matter! It just falls short without superior color and clarity.

So why am I even talking about diamonds in a skincare blog?

Well, the characteristics that make a diamond sparkle and radiate beauty are very similar to the characteristics of beautiful skin. I mean is there anyone out there who would not be flattered to have their skin compared to a radiant, flawless diamond? Just as clarity and color are mandatory characteristics of a beautiful diamond, clarity and color are also key factors in creating beautiful skin.

Achieving superior skin color means that your skin is free of brown spots, freckles, redness, broken vessels and melasma. Skin clarity refers to skin that is free of rough texture, flakes, dull skin, large pores, acne, keratoses and moles. Superior color and clarity can be achieved through treatments such as traditional CO2 Full Face Laser Resurfacing , CO2 Micro-Fractional Laser Resurfacing, IPL, medical grade bleaching agents such as Castillo MD Skin Science  Advanced Skin Lightening Complex or Spot Light, medical microdermabrasion, chemical peels and medical grade skincare products.

I would say that most people who are bothered by facial aging are focused on wrinkles. When they look in the mirror, they see an aging face with a custom set of lines and wrinkles that have formed after years of abuse, mainly by sun exposure, and other factors. However, most often, removing wrinkles is only half the battle. It is the brown spots, broken vessels, rough texture and dull, flaking skin that create a less youthful appearance.

The concept of color and clarity is an important concept to understand. One must realize that if you treat only the lines and wrinkles of an aging face whether it be though a facelift, forehead lift, fat grafting, Botox or dermal filler such as Restylane Lift,  you are likely to find yourself feeling more like cubic zirconium than the real thing.

Here’s to wishing you the kind of admiration only superior color and clarity can generate.

 

Roxanne Grace
Skincare and Laser Specialist
G. D. Castillo, M.D.
COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM

800-252-7123 (within IL)
217-359-7508 Savoy (Champaign-Urbana)

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Posted in Skincare & Aging | 4 Comments »

New Exclusive & Informative Interview with Skin & Laser Specialist, Roxanne – Question #3

Tuesday, September 15th, 2015

Question: Why do people come to the skin rejuvenation suite at Cosmetic Plastic Surgery?

Roxanne: “Most men and women, even teens simply want to become a better version of themselves.

  • They may have a special occasion coming up like a wedding, vacation or new job.
  • Some are seeking one of our signature facials or microdermabrasion to relief stress and brighten their appearance while others are working on self-improvement with chemical peels, hair reduction or vein therapy.“
  • In January of this year, to support the services that the skin rejuvenation suite offers, Dr. Castillo introduced his own medical-grade skincare line called Castillo MD Skin Science.  It has been very well received by our patients and our staff.
  • The new skincare line has been a huge success and the results speak for themselves! This has brought a new sector of patients to us who are simply tired of being disappointed by empty promises made by over-the-counter skincare product lines. Trial sizes are available for most of the products so patients can try them out before purchasing a full size product. It is a nice benefit for the patient and they come back so excited, bursting with compliments about the skincare products they tried. As I always say, “you don’t need a cabinet full of skincare products, just the right products and knowledge to know the difference!”Microdermabrasion ScrubIMG_2054

Lush Simplicity Kit

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Posted in Ask Our Expert, BOTOX® Cosmetic & Dermal Fillers, Facelift, Facial Surgery, Hair Reduction, Laser, Non-Surgical Treatments, Patient Advocacy, Products, Skincare & Aging, Uncategorized | No Comments »

Which Ways Can a Professional Skincare Specialist Help Me?

Wednesday, August 26th, 2015

 

As a skincare specialist,  I will closely examine your skin, take a detailed history, discuss any skin conditions, allergies and concerns. Each of these factors along with your goals are compiled to develop the best plan for you. We will discuss in detail why we recommend a specific treatment such as CO2 Micro-Fractional Laser Resurfacing, Intense Pulse Light or

effective skincare product, as it pertains directly to you.  You will leave with a clear understanding of the benefits and risks and what to expect before and after your treatment.

I think our skincare patients would tell you the most valuable advantage is the wealth of information and advice you will receive. We remove the guess work, the myths, the false hype of the next best fad and simply present you with proven-effective options that will help you reach your goals. A skincare specialist can educate you on the right ingredients for cleansers, moisturizers, sun screens, anti-oxidants, boosters and retinoids to help you see results fast and get the most out of each application not to mention the fun stuff like experimenting with different make up colors and looks.

Once you have established a patient relationship with me as your skincare specialist, I am available to discuss questions or directions you may have forgotten over the phone.  This type of individualized service just isn’t available at a makeup counter or through on-line ordering.  Our goal is to prescribe the right treatments and at-home products so that you never again end up with a drawer full of products that don’t work!

Yours truly,

 

Roxanne Grace
Skincare and Laser Specialist
G. D. Castillo, M.D.
COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM

800-252-7123 (within IL)
217-359-7508 Savoy (Champaign-Urbana)

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New Exclusive & Informative Interview with Skincare & Laser Specialist, Roxanne – Question #1

Thursday, July 23rd, 2015

Question: How has the skin rejuvenation suite at Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center sustained its success over the past 25 years?

Roxanne: “We are fortunate enough that the Skin Rejuvenation Suite has a wonderful, well- respected, word-of-mouth reputation I would imagine is due to many factors:”

  • 1. “Our focus at Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center has always been about providing the best possible experience for each patient, every time. The nature of our services allows us to make deep connections with our patients as we guide them through their journey both surgically and non-surgically.”
  • 2. “We are a state-of-the art facility with a physician / cosmetic plastic surgeon who has over 30 years experienceCosmetic Plastic Surgery 9/11/12e in this field and as a staff, we all benefit from working under his direction. Dr. Castillo has created a well-oiled, professional, educated team of caring individuals, simply making us good at what we do, whether it is plastic surgery, Botox or skin rejuvenation. “
  • 3. “We do not work on commission. This means it’s a relaxed environment not only for the staff but for our patients as well. If there is a service that a patient is interested in, we tell them about it but our patients are never pressured to do anything. I believe this is yet another reason why patients refer others to us. Who would want to refer a friend to an office that is willing to pressure their friend into anything?” You will never find that kind of mentality or leadership here.
  • 4. “We are not interested in offering every new fad that comes along. We are interested ONLY in offering our patients the highest-quality skin rejuvenation and skincare product regimens that offer real improvements. Essentially, we are all results oriented perfectionists here and we want what our patients want; the best results possible!”

 

 

 

 

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Posted in Ask Our Expert, BOTOX® Cosmetic & Dermal Fillers, Facelift, Facial Surgery, Hair Reduction, Laser, Non-Surgical Treatments, Patient Advocacy, Products, Skincare & Aging, Uncategorized | No Comments »

Captivated by Collagen Stimulators, Lasers & Other Exciting At-Home Devices?

Thursday, March 19th, 2015

While flipping through the pages of a well-known magazine, I was indeed surprised to find an at-home device advertised as “an alternative to pricey anti-wrinkle treatments” with an at-home “laser” to stimulate collagen production. I was surprised because as a plastic surgeon and CEO of Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center in Champaign, Illinois, I have been restoring and stimulating collagen for more 30 years.

While aesthetics medicine has advanced from the days of phenol peels to modern, art-of-the-art, dedicated laser technologies in a positive and substantial way, it is by no means as easy or uncomplicated to re-grow new collagen as the ad made it seem. Stimulating new collagen growth requires wounding of the deep dermis to force the body to say “hey, part of my dermis has just been injured, I need to make some new collagen.”   It requires sophisticated, expensive equipment along with expensive, preventative maintenance to stimulate collagen growth. In fact, not all medical lasers are even effective enough to reach the deep dermis. There is a huge difference between FDA-approved medical devices or lasers and gadgets sold directly to the consumer, which do not require FDA approval.

The FDA requires that medical devices are “proven-safe and effective” in order to approve them for use. Then the FDA puts these lasers ONLY in the hands of individuals who are properly trained and experienced to use such equipment. For example, every time I purchase a new laser for my cosmetic plastic surgery practice, both myself and the laser specialist working in my office must become certified to operate that specific laser. No matter how many certifications we hold to operate other lasers and how many years experience we have operating lasers, we still must go through proper training for that specific device. Lasers in improperly trained hands can and have resulted in irreversible skin damage.

The advertised anti-wrinkle device is what we refer to as a “gadget.” It is no more effective than the pantheon of in-effective gadgets that proceed it. Do you really want to take an irreversible risk on your skin? Don’t be fooled by a major department store’s unconscionable advertising.

Why are medically approved lasers effective?

Because they target deep dermis with energy capable of penetrating to the depths needed to wound cells and is done so in a controlled and infinitely adjustable protocol that puts emphasis on safety and efficacy.

Medical lasers are expensive to purchase and expensive to maintain They require maintenance contracts to properly calibrate, test and repair to assure your safety at all times unlike the gadget advertised as “an alternative to pricey wrinkle treatments” where as you can just pick it up and use it… no training, no calibration, no maintenance, no real results.

It’s 2015. Guard your money wisely.

 

Cosmetic Plastic Surgery 9/11/12

 

 

 

 

 

G. D. Castillo, M.D.
COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM

800-252-7123 (within IL)
217-359-7508 Savoy (Champaign-Urbana)

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WILTED BY WINTER WEATHER ? USEFUL TIPS TO MAINTAIN YOUR GLOWING YOUTHFUL APPEARANCE

Wednesday, November 12th, 2014

You have packed away your flip flops and Daisy Dukes and pulled out your boots, long sweaters, leggings and warm winter coats; but did you remember change up your skincare routine?  This is the time of year when patients flood the skin rejuvenation suite in Dr. Castillo’s Savoy location, desperately looking for solutions to their concerns of suddenly seeing more wrinkles and sagging, dull, flaking, even red and irritated skin. With a few simple changes recommended in their skincare evaluation, they are re-united with the soft, supple skin they work so diligently all year to achieve.

4982The unfavorable changes winter brings is often due to a drop in humidity, not only outdoors but indoors as well.  When we get exposed to the cold, windy, dry air, our first reaction is to rush inside and crank up the thermostat or jump a steaming hot shower. Unfortunately these “feel good” reactions de-hydrate our skin even more, causing our skin to look even more wilted.

Dry, winter weather can really pack a wallop.  Before you know it, dry air and harsh elements can heighten the appearance of wrinkles, and crepiness, flaking and loss of radiance.  Who wants to wake up with these changes right before the holiday gathering season?  Not me!  This calls for some simple changes in your everyday skincare routine to maintain your youthful, supple, radiant appearance.

I recently stayed in a lovely hotel for a few days in one of the more blustery weather states. I woke up after the second night feeling as if my face might actually crack in half.  True statement! My face felt dry, tight, rough, irritated and what’s worse… I looked as if I had aged 10 years over night!  NOT what I was hoping to get out of my vacation!  Well, I decided instantly that I was not going down without a fight! After all, I am a skincare specialist!

I immediately took some successful precautions to help return my skin to its normal condition.

  • I kept my hotel room temperature at 67 degrees – higher temperatures will cause dry skin.
  • Avoided hot showers that feel so good in cold weather – again causes dry skin.
  • Added a humidifier to add moisture to the room
  • Increased my water intake
  • Loaded up on my skin barrier protecting moisturizer
  • Continued to apply my medical grade, broad-spectrum sunscreen. Remember that the combination of winter sun along with snow glare can really damage your skin.

Making an appointment to speak with a trained skincare specialist in your local cosmetic plastic surgeons office will be time well spent.  You will receive information that will be hard to find at your local store counter.  A skincare specialist will be able to analyze your skin, review your current product regimen and suggests the simple adjustments you will need to make to look your best all winter long!

Yours Truly,

Roxanne Hammond, Skincare and Laser Specialist Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center

Roxanne Grace
Skincare and Laser Specialist
G. D. Castillo, M.D.
COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM

800-252-7123 (within IL)
217-359-7508 Savoy (Champaign-Urbana)

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