IPL, or Intense Pulsed Light, and IPL treatment is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure used for various skin concerns. It utilizes high-intensity pulses of broad-spectrum light to target specific skin issues such as sun damage, age spots, freckles, pigmentation irregularities, acne scars, vascular lesions, and hair removal.
How IPL Treatment Works
During an IPL treatment, a handheld device uses pulses of light onto the skin, which is absorbed by the targeted pigment or blood vessels. This absorbed light energy heats and destroys the unwanted cells or stimulates the production of collagen, depending on the purpose of the treatment. IPL treatment can be adjusted for a variety of skin concerns.
Who Should Get IPL Treatments?
IPL treatments work best if you have pale or light brown skin. There are several skin concerns that can be treated with IPL including:
- Acne
- Birthmarks
- Stretch marks
- Liver or age spots
- Broken blood vessels
- Brown spots, also called liver or age spots
- Dark spots from hormonal changes
- Discolored skin
- Fine wrinkles
- Freckles
- Redness from rosacea
- Scars
- Spider veins
- Unwanted hair
Who Shouldn’t Get IPL Treatments?
Talk to your doctor prior to getting IPL treatments if you:
- Are pregnant
- Have a skin condition
- Are currently taking medications for other conditions.
IPL Treatments may not be for you if you:
- Are sensitive to light
- Have recently tanned your skin using sunlight, tanning beds, or tanning creams
- Might have skin cancer
- Use a retinoid cream
- Are very dark-skinned
- Have a skin resurfacing disorder
- Have severe scarring
- Have keloid scar tissue
Risks and Side Effects of IPL Treatment
While IPL treatments are safe when done by a trained provider, there are still some side effects that could occur including scarring, swelling, bleeding, and blistering. Your skin could change color, become infected, or hurt. These symptoms typically resolve within a few hours to a few days after treatment. Talk to your provider if you feel sick after your treatment or if your condition gets worse.
What to Expect During IPL Treatment?
Prior to your IPL treatment, do NOT:
- Tan in the sun, in a tanning bed, or with tanning creams for 4 weeks before you go
- Wax, or get a chemical peel or collagen shots for 2 weeks before
- Wear perfume, makeup, deodorant, or any skin irritants
- Take aspirin or another drug that can make you bleed more
- Take any medication that will make you sun-sensitive; for example, the antibiotic doxycycline.
To begin, the provider applies a cooling gel to the skin to minimize discomfort. You will wear protective eyewear to shield the eyes from the intense light. Then, the provider places a handheld device on the skin, and delivers the pulses of light in a controlled manner. The treatment typically lasts between 20-30 minutes but larger areas could take up to an hour. The treatment can sting a little so if you are worried about discomfort, your provider can give you a numbing cream 30-60 minutes before treatment begins.
IPL Rockville MD
Dental, Spa, and Cosmetic Surgery has a compassionate and knowledgeable team dedicated to providing the best skin care service for you. If you are interested in IPL treatments, contact us today to schedule your consultation!
Dealing with acne is frustrating enough and unfortunately, most times the battle isn’t over when the breakout disappears. Many of us are left with scarring and it can remain for months or even years. Acne scars form as a result of the inflammation, and resulting trauma to the skin, that occurs during breakouts. One of the most effective ways to diminish or completely remove the appearance of acne scars on the skin is a chemical peel.
How Chemical Peels Work
There are generally two types of acne scars — atrophic and hypertrophic scars. Atrophic scars form a depression compared to the level of the surrounding skin because of damage to the collagen, fat, or other tissues below the skin’s outermost layer, according to the National Library of Medicine. On the other hand, hypertrophic scars are raised above the skin due to an overproduction of collagen.
During a chemical peel, a licensed professional will apply a chemical solution that will cause the top layer of skin to peel off during the healing process. This will result in the new top layer looking smoother, brighter, and cleaner. While chemical peels may be effective for atrophic scars, they are not recommended as first-line treatment for hypertrophic scarring because there’s a possibility that the peel will worsen current scars or could cause new scars to form.
Are Chemical Peels for Acne Scars Safe For All Skin Types?
Chemical peels are generally safe for all skin types (namely dry, oily, combination, and “normal” skin). But, there are still some risks to consider in certain cases. For example, those with sensitive skin because of conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis should be careful when getting chemical peels. If you experience any type of sensitive skin conditions, consult with a licensed professional prior to getting a chemical peel.
Best Chemical Peels for Acne Scars in Maryland
Dr. Hackley and our knowledgeable and compassionate staff are dedicated to providing the best services. If you are ready to learn more about treatment for acne scars, consider a chemical peel. For the best peels in Rockville, contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Microneedling with PRP in Maryland is a great way to address acne, wrinkles, sun damage and much more. You may have heard of microneedling before. Microneedling is a treatment which uses controlled micro-injuries to stimulate your skin’s natural healing process. Adding PRP to this treatment, also known as the “Vampire facial”, has grown in popularity due to celebrity endorsements and the interesting treatment procedure.
What is a “Vampire Facial”?
The Vampire facial is taking mirconeedling to a new level. The facial actually uses your own blood’s special healing cells to improve your skin tone and smooth out any imperfections by using platelet-rich plasma. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is derived from a small sample of your own blood. PPR is used because it contains a variety of growth factors and other beneficial proteins.
On the day of your treatment, a small sample of blood will be drawn and then spun in a centrifuge for roughly 15 minutes. This causes the various components of blood – including platelets – to separate by density. Your clinician will then extract the PRP in order to harness its powerful skin-healing effects.
How Does Microneedling with PRP Work?
After a small blood draw, your clinician will apply a topical anesthetic to your face. Then they’ll pass over it with a microneedling pen or derma-roller. These devices prick tiny holes in your skin, stimulating its natural healing processes – and creating channels for the PRP. In addition, the tiny breaks in the skin stimulate collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin which allows for facial rejuvenation by reducing the appearance of facial wrinkles and scars.
Next, your clinician will massage the PRP into the treated areas of the skin. This helps the platelets and beneficial growth factors in PRP penetrate deep into your skin so they can work their rejuvenating magic. Finally, your clinician will apply a balm to your face to reduce redness and irritation. The treatment usually takes less than two hours in total, and it has little to no downtime. Many patients return to work the next day. For the best results, patients should avoid direct sunlight and minimize their use of personal skin care products for the first few days of recovery.
What Skin Conditions Can Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Treat?
Microneedling (with or without PRP) can improve a variety of skin conditions, including:
- Acne scars
- Age spots
- Wrinkling
- Sun damage
- Scarring caused by injuries such as burns
- Hyperpigmentation
Microneedling and PRP in Maryland
Dr. Hackley and our knowledgeable and compassionate staff are dedicated to providing the best spa services to help extend that beautiful glow.
For more information on mirconeedling in Rockville, contact us today to schedule a consultation!
June is Acne Awareness month and it is time to educate and celebrate the skin we are in. Acne is a common skin condition that a lot of people face, especially women. It is caused when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, resulting in pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Acne effects a majority of us but it can also leave us feeling insecure and not confident. Facials can be very useful in combating acne, as they work by deeply cleansing and exfoliating the skin, unclogging pores, and removing impurities that contribute to breakouts. Lets take a look at the top five facials for people that have acne.
Classic Facial
The classic facial is a reliable acne facial treatment that is suitable for most skin types, including normal, combination, and dry skin. It involves a series of steps that work together to cleanse, exfoliate, and nourish the skin. It can also help improve skin texture, tone, and hydration levels.
The facialist starts by cleansing the skin and then exfoliating it to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Next, they perform a facial massage to improve blood flow and relax facial muscles. After the massage, a facial mask is applied to nourish and hydrate the skin. Finally, a moisturizer is applied to seal in moisture and protect the skin.
Microdermabrasion Facial
The microdermabrasion facial is very popular and has been proven effective as a treatment to achieve smooth and vibrant skin. Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive facial treatment that involves using a machine with a diamond or crystal-tipped wand to exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin. The machine uses a suction mechanism to vacuum up dead skin cells and unclog pores, revealing smoother and brighter skin.
The facialist uses a special tool to gently exfoliate the top layer of the skin, removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores. This helps to brighten the complexion and reduce the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation.
LED Facial
The LED facial is a treatment that uses light therapy to improve the health and appearance of the skin. It is great for all kinds skin types, including dry, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. The LED facial gives off specific wavelengths of light that penetrate deep into the skin to stimulate cell renewal and promote collagen production. This can help to lighten the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars while improving overall skin texture and tone.
During the facial, the skin is thoroughly cleansed, and then an LED light panel is placed over the face. The light is then directed at the skin for a specific amount of time, depending on the type of light and the desired outcome. After the treatment, a moisturizer is applied to the skin to hydrate and protect it.
Decongesting Facial 
The decongesting facial is probably one of the best facials for those prone to acne. This facial deeply cleanses and purifies the skin, using a combination of exfoliation, steam, and extractions to remove impurities and unclog pores.
The facialist starts by thoroughly cleansing the skin and then steaming it to open the pores. Next, they perform extractions to remove blackheads and whiteheads. After the extractions, a facial mask is applied to soothe and hydrate the skin, followed by a moisturizer to protect it.
Chemical Peel Facial
A chemical peel involves applying a chemical product to your skin. This chemical solution causes the top layer of skin to peel off, leaving the new top layer brighter, smoother, and clearer. They can help to reduce the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation, as well as improve overall skin texture and tone
During the facial, the skin is thoroughly cleansed, and then the chemical solution is applied to the skin. The solution is left on for a specific amount of time, depending on the strength of the peel and the desired results. After the designated time, the solution is neutralized and removed from the skin.
Best Facials For Acne in Maryland
Dental, Spa, and Cosmetic Surgery has a compassionate and knowledgable team dedicated to providing the best skin care service for you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
PDO therapy is an innovative cosmetic treatment that ramps up collagen production to subtly lift facial features and counteract the signs of aging. If you’re eager to learn more, here are the answers to the most common PDO Thread Lift FAQs:
What Is the PDO Thread Lift? And How Does It Work?
Essentially, the PDO Thread Lift procedure involves implanting fine, absorbable polydioxanone threads into the subcutaneous layer of the skin. Doing so causes a series of micro-injuries that trigger the body to increase collagen and elastin production. The threads remain for about six to eight months, then they’re absorbed into the body.
Are All PDO Threads the Same?
Nope! This procedure uses several types of PDO threads. And the ones recommended to you are entirely dependent on the areas you’re targeting and the type of improvements you’re hoping to achieve.
What Areas Can PDO Thread Life Be Used On? 
This is PDO Thread Lift FAQ that we often hear. At Hackley DDS, we perform this procedure on various areas of the face including the cheeks, brow, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, jawline, and neck. It also treats the arms, thighs, and abdomen.
How Long Does the PDO Thread Lift Procedure Take?
Again, the duration of the PDO Thread Lift depends on the area being targeted. However, most treatments last anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. Including preparation and aftercare, expect your treatment to last about two hours.
Does It Hurt?
This is yet another common PDO Thread Lift FAQ. While the procedure is minimally invasive, it does cause micro-injuries to the skin. Therefore, patients are given a local anesthetic to ensure they remain comfortable.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
The results of a PDO Thread Lift are progressive, and the lifting effect peaks about six months post-treatment. From there, the effects of the treatment last between two and three years.
PDO Thread Lift Rockville MD
If you are interested in learning more about this procedure and how it could benefit you, please contact Hackley DDS today.
As we age, wrinkles and fine lines begin to creep across our faces. And while there’s nothing wrong with that, the PRP facial helps lessen those effects. Keep scrolling if you want to learn more about this popular facial treatment.
What Is the PRP Facial?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) facials are not cosmetic procedures but medical procedures. The practitioner (in our case, Dr. Hackley) takes a sample of the patient’s blood and isolates the protein-rich plasma and platelets. The high level of growth factors contained in the PRP helps the body heal, which is why dermatologists use PRP facials to stimulate the growth of collagen.
How it Works 
During your PRP facial, the practitioner takes a tiny amount of plasma from your blood and applies it directly to your skin. Then, we micro-needle across the forehead and cheeks to assist in the absorption of proteins. Both the micro-needling and the PRP stimulate collagen and elastin growth, supporting your skin’s natural repair process.
PRP Benefits for Face
The PRP facial is uber-beneficial for people struggling with wrinkles, sun damage, or acne scarring. As we mentioned, PRP encourages cell proliferation, which leads to an increase in both elastin and collagen. And as a result, the skin appears fuller, tighter, and overall smoother.
Is PRP Safe?
Sometimes referred to as the ‘vampire facial,’ it might sound daunting. However, PRP facials are safe for a wide variety of skin types. And while there might be some mild swelling or bruising, symptoms subside within a few days.
PRP Facial Near Me
Interested in getting a PRP facial in Rockville, Maryland? With 25+ years in the industry, Hackley DDS has helped countless patients achieve the glowing, radiant complexion of their dreams. Now, we’d love to do the same for you. Contact our team to get started.
Viora skin rejuvenation combines three radio frequencies with vacuum therapy to deliver a brighter, firmer complexion. In other words, this treatment stimulates your existing collagen and elastin fibers to gradually improve your skin’s elasticity. Keep reading, and we’ll tell you how it works.
What Is Viora Skin Rejuvenation?
As we mentioned, this cosmetic treatment uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate the skin’s existing collagen and elastin fibers, boosting its elasticity. Because the tissue fibers are instantly contracted, new collagen production begins immediately. This achieves soothing and firming results that are noticeable as soon as the treatment ends.
What Areas Can Be Treated? 
Viora skin rejuvenation treats a wide variety of areas including the:
- Face – including the sensitive eye area
- Neck
- Chin
- Jawline
- Abdomen
- Thighs
- Arms
- Knees
- Buttocks
How It Works
Viora utilizes the FDA-approved CORE™ technology offering three different radiofrequency channels. And the radio frequencies simultaneously deliver heat to all layers of the skin, achieving optimal results. Additionally, the procedure uses vacuum therapy to enhance the penetration of radiofrequency energy. As a result, it increases blood circulation, triggers lymphatic drainage, and reduces fat cells.
Treatment Benefits
This popular cosmetic treatment rejuvenates and brightens skin, among a wide variety of additional benefits:
- Tightens and smooths skin
- Improves cellulite
- Boosts confidence
- Complements any skin color
- Safe and non-invasive
- Requires no downtime
- Noticeable results after just one session
- Quick and convenient treatment options
- Treats the entire body – not just face
Viora Skin Rejuvenation Near Me
If you’re seeking Viora skin rejuvenation treatment in Rockville, Maryland, Hackley DDS is here for you. Backed by years of experience, we can quickly and efficiently handle your Viora treatment. And within days, you’ll notice a significant transformation in your skin’s complexion.
Ready for the clear, healthy skin that you’ve always wanted? Contact our team to discuss your next steps.
Today we’re shining the spotlight on Morpheus8 Skin Tightening, a popular anti-aging skin procedure. While more and more people are shying away from invasive procedures like the face and neck lift, this minimally invasive treatment is a fantastic alternative. Keep scrolling, and we’ll tell you why.
What Is Morpheus8 Skin Tightening?
Essentially, Morpheus8 Skin Tightening is a non-surgical, advanced needling treatment. It combines radiofrequency and micro-needling to stimulate collagen production and rebuild the deeper layers of the skin. As a result, this procedure tightens and smooths wrinkles on the face and body.
How It Works
Combining radiofrequency, micro-needling, and fractional treatments, Morpheus8 addresses a variety of skin issues. Essentially, this procedure uses tiny needles to penetrate the skin and heat the tissue, stimulating the production of collagen. And what differentiates Morpheus8 Skin Tightening from other needling treatments is the depth at which the needles penetrate the skin. It is the only treatment on the market that contours and refines the subdermal layers to sculpt the face naturally.
The Benefits 
This non-invasive procedure allows patients to experience the benefit of a facelift without needles. Other benefits include:
- Reduces wrinkles
- Yields quick results
- Fades stretch marks
- Minimizes acne scarring
- Has a short treatment time
- Requires little-to-no downtime
- Increases collagen production
Morpheus8 Skin Tightening Near Me
Interested in getting Morpheus8 in Rockville, Maryland? Dr. Hackley and her team are the ones for the job. At Hackley DDS, Morpheus8 treats the face, eyes, abdomen, thighs, and buttocks, and it’s ideal for all skin types.
Curious whether this procedure is right for you? Contact our team to set up an in-office consultation. We will look at your current skin conditions and long-term goals, and together, we’ll come up with a treatment plan that is perfectly suited to you.
Skin resurfacing treatments — like the IPL photofacial — help people of all ages improve their skin tone and texture. So, if exfoliation and topical creams aren’t giving you that blemish-free glow, this procedure is a tremendous option. Keep reading to discover the benefits of IPL Rockville, Maryland.
Benefits of IPL Rockville, Maryland
Wondering if professional skin resurfacing treatments are for you? Here are some benefits of IPL Rockville, Maryland:
Treats Sun Damage
Sunlight breaks down the collagen in our skin, which makes it weaker and more susceptible to aging. However, the IPL photofacial combats UV damage by penetrating and drawing out discolored cells forming in the dermis (aka intense exfoliation). Then, it encourages the skin to generate a significant amount of new collagen.
Heals Stubborn Acne 
Intense pulsed light is ideal for tackling acne and its stubborn side effects (like scarring). Therefore, another one of the benefits of IPL Rockville, Maryland is its ability to kill harmful bacteria and reduce redness and inflammation. Repeated IPL photofacials encourage the skin to shed its outer layer, which gradually eliminates scar tissue.
Prevents Premature Skin Aging
IPL has the unique ability to transform the structure of skin cells to mimic the behaviors of younger cells. In fact, a Stanford University study found that receiving light treatments positively alters the genes of dermal cells. Therefore, it’s an effective means of preventing (and not merely treating) the superficial signs of aging.
IPL Photofacial in Rockville, Maryland
Now that you’ve heard some of the benefits of IPL Rockville, Maryland, Hackley DDS is here to make it happen. As your one-stop shop for premier dental and spa care, we’ve helped hundreds of patients achieve the smiles and skin of their dreams. Now, we’d love to do the same for you.
Contact our team to learn more or book an appointment today.
Want a non-surgical solution to facial aging? Allow us to introduce you to Evoke Skin Tightening. If you aren’t already familiar, this is the first-ever facial remodeling device used to tighten, rejuvenate, and slenderize the lower face and neck.
How It Works
Evoke skin-tightening targets the dermal layer of skin and the fibro septal network (FSN), which are the fibrous bands giving your skin structure and support. Essentially, thermal radiofrequency energy penetrates the tissues to contour and shape them. The result? People experience firmer and tighter skin, gain a youthful jawline, and minimize the appearance of jowls.
What Are the Benefits 
So, why get Evoke skin tightening? Well, aside from being the first-ever hands-free device for facial contouring, there are numerous benefits:
- Stimulates new collagen production, which firms the skin.
- Regulates muscle tone to tighten and firm the jawline and cheeks.
- Tightens the skin at the cellular level, delivering a youthful, radiant complexion.
- Destroys the fat in the jowl and lower face, which welcomes a more contoured and defined look.
This painless procedure lasts just 30 to 45 minutes, and because it’s non-invasive, there’s no downtime required. In addition, Evoke maintains a constant temperature, which guarantees your tissues receive the ideal amount of bipolar radiofrequency energy. Therefore, there’s no need to worry about potentially problematic results.
Evoke Skin Tightening in Rockville
If you’re interested in learning whether Evoke skin tightening is a good option for you, Dr. Hackley and her team are here to help. With 20+ years of experience in premier dental and spa care, we’ve helped many Rockville patients achieve the faces of their dreams.
So, if you’re looking to rejuvenate your skin, restore youthful contours, or sculpt your neck with Evoke facial remodeling, Hackley DDS is here for you. Contact our team to schedule a comprehensive consultation today.
