What Is a VI Peel? Benefits, Side Effects and Aftercare
One of the hottest beauty trends right now, the VI peel has been garnering quite a bit of attention thanks to its gentle, no-downtime approach. Like most chemical peels, it can tackle skin issues like acne, hyperpigmentation and aging. But unlike other peels, it can do so with minimal discomfort and downtime.
This is thanks to its unique blend of active ingredients whose benefits go beyond simple exfoliation. This one-of-a-kind peel can improve skin tone and texture, reverse sun damage, rejuvenate the skin and have a protective effect. There are also different versions of the VI Peel for anyone who needs specialized treatment. Chances are you’ll find this treatment useful no matter your skin concerns.
If you’ve heard about this new treatment and want to learn more — including about its benefits, the side effects and what to expect as far as aftercare goes — continue reading.
What Is the VI Peel?
The VI Peel is a unique chemical peel developed by the Vitality Institute (VI). It is gentle enough to be used anywhere on the face and body, including around the eyes, the chest and hands. It also produces visible improvement with little to no downtime and skin peeling that lasts only three days to a week. The treatment is available only through authorized clinicians to target problems like:
- Acne and acne scars
- Hyperpigmentation
- Fine lines and wrinkles
Chemical peels can be superficial, medium or deep. The VI peel is a medium-strength peel. These types of peels work by removing the skin’s outer layer (epidermis) and penetrating the top of the middle layer (dermis). This is achieved with the help of specially formulated acids. In the case of the VI Peel, the three acids in its formulas are:
- Trichloroacetic acid
- Salicylic acid
- Phenol
Although the VI Peel is often described as a single treatment, the Vitality Institute offers six uniquely formulated VI Peel treatments called VI Peel Original, VI Precision Plus, VI Peel Purify, VI Peel Purify with Precision Plus, VI Peel Advance and VI Peel Body.
How Is It Different From a Standard Peel?
The VI Peel is not your average medium peel. The difference lies in its unique formulations, which were designed to be gentler than a standard medium peel but just as effective and with added skin benefits.
While standard medium peels contain TCA and other acids in concentrations ranging between 20 and 50%, the IV peel is a more diluted formula. It blends the three acids mentioned earlier with different acids at lower concentrations of 10 to 12%. This is what makes this product line gentler compared to other medium peels. An interesting thing about the VI Peel is its addition of phenol.
Phenol is normally used in deep peels, which are the strongest-acting peels available. These can offer dramatic rejuvenation. However, they are quite aggressive, can be somewhat risky and require up to a full month of downtime. But when used in small concentrations, the effects are less dramatic and well-tolerated.
Another feature that makes the IV Peel stand out is the addition of nourishing and skin-boosting ingredients, like:
Retinoic acid
A derivative of vitamin A that helps regulate skin cell turnover and oil production and. It’s best known for its anti-aging benefits.
Vitamin C
A powerful antioxidant vitamin that plays a big role in the skin’s defense against free radical damage as well as collagen production.
Hydroquinone
A skin-lightening agent that reverses and prevents hyperpigmentation due to sun damage, hormones and chronic inflammation.
Kojic Acid
Produced by several species of fungi, this organic compound prevents the skin from producing too much skin pigment.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Used to treat acne, benzoyl peroxide works by killing acne-causing bacteria as well as boosting skin cell turnover.
Hydrocortisone
A type of corticosteroid medicine, this ingredient helps calm down inflammation and boost healing.
What to Expect
The VI Peel is gentler compared to most other medium peels, making it suitable for most skin types, tones and concerns. However, you will need to consult with a provider first to see if you’re a candidate.
The treatment itself is simple: Your practitioner will apply the liquid formula via a gauze in sweeping strokes in several layers, taking time in between each layer to check your skin’s reaction. There is no pain associated with treatment and most patients can resume their day as usual. Here’s more about what to expect:
Benefits
Diminished fine lines and wrinkles
The IV peel is a skin resurfacing treatment. What that means is that it removes damaged layers of skin and stimulates collagen production within the skin’s middle layer. The result is a smoother skin surface with a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.
Brighter and more even skin tone
The acids in this peel remove damaged layers of skin with excess melanin, which helps even out the skin tone. The addition of skin-brightening ingredients further boosts this effect.
Cleared acne and diminished acne scars
A medium peel like this is one of the best treatments for acne-prone skin. The addition of salicylic acid helps unclog pores, reduces inflammation and regulates sebum production. TCA stimulates collagen remodeling within the dermis to reduce and prevent acne scars.
Side Effects
Because this is a relatively gentle peel, side effects are minimal and tend to resolve quickly. Patients rarely experience any pain during treatment, although mild burning for a couple of seconds is normal. Your skin may appear pinkish to red immediately post-treatment, then start to flake by day two and then peel from days three to seven. Rare but potential side effects also include:
- Swelling
- Itching
- Burning
- Blistering
- Infections
- Scaring
- Hyperpigmentation
Aftercare
We will provide you with a take-home kit and post-treatment instructions to ensure proper healing. This includes a mild cleanser, retinoid towelettes, A VI Derm Moisturizer and hydrocortisone cream.
It’s important to follow your provider’s instructions to prevent side effects and to ensure your skin looks its best once healing is complete. These instructions include things like avoiding harsh cleansers, direct sun exposure, hot environments and picking the peeling skin.
Achieve Glowing Skin With the VI Peel at Wink Medical Aesthetics
At Wink Medical Aesthetics, we’re proud to offer the IV Peel in Lakeway, Texas. We’ve been authorized to offer this treatment, and our providers are trained in treating a wide range of skin issues using the VI Peel product line. To get started, call our office at 512-890-3556 or click here to book your appointment today!
