Chemical Peels

Learn more about Chemical Peels in Tampa

Chemical peels are used to resurface the skin. The agent is selectively applied to your skin with the purpose of exfoliating or removing the outer layer and part of the middle layer of the skin. They are considered a resurfacing procedure because once this outer layer is removed your body will regenerate a new layer of skin which will be smooth, fresh and have less wrinkles or color spots. Because of the cooler weather in the fall and winter as well as the less intense sunlight, September to March  is the most popular time to get your chemical peel!

What Chemical Peel Does Dr Rayess use?

There are many different kinds of chemical peels. Dr Rayess’ favorite chemical peel is a TCA chemical peel (trichloro acetic acid). This chemical removes the outer layers of your skin in a controlled manner and is considered a medium depth peel. This peel should only be done by providers who are properly trained as it penetrates the skin deeper than the superficial chemical peels which are the most common ones. 

Who is a good candidate for a chemical peel?

The TCA chemical peel is a great peel to resurface the skin in patients who have fine wrinkles in their facial skin and especially on the skin around the mouth. The chemical peel is also a good option for patients with sun spots or pigmented lesions that are a result of sun damage over the years. 

How do I get a chemical peel in Tampa?

 The first step is to schedule a consultation with Dr Rayess, who will go over your medical history and your skin history to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Then you will likely need to start Retin A for at least 2-3 weeks prior to the procedure to prep your skin for the peel. This helps cleanse the outer layer of the skin so the peel can get in deeper. You will also need to avoid the sun for 2 weeks prior and 6 weeks after to minimize the risk of pigment issues after the peel. 

What is the process of getting the chemical peel?

 The peel takes about 30 minutes to perform in the office. It is better to have someone drive you over that day. We ask that you don’t wear any make up. We will then degrease your face and Dr Rayess will proceed to apply the peel. The peel will feel like a bad sun burn when it is applied. Some patients take a Tylenol to relax them during the process. Once your face is sufficiently peeled we will neutralize the peel before you go home. For the first day you won’t have to do anything. On the second day you will start cleaning your face.
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What is the recovery process?

On the first day you go home and relax as there is nothing for you to do. On the second day you will start cleaning your face and applying the ointment according to the postop instructions. Your skin will start to peel on the 3rd day and this will last for 7 days. During this time it is critical that you do not pick at the peeling skin. You cannot apply makeup while your skin is peeling. So some downtime is critical. You must maintain good sun protection for 6 weeks after the peel to minimize the risk of any pigmentation changes.
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Is it a painful procedure?

The most painful aspect is the application of the peel in the office. It feels like a bad sun burn. Once the peel is neutralized the burning sensation will start to fade away.
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How much does a full face chemical peel cost?

The cost varies depending on the intensity of the peel applied and the areas to which it is applied. The range is $1400-$1700.
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If you have any questions, you can reach out to us at 813-800-3223 (FACE) or schedule an appointment here. 

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