What is a VI Peel? A VI Peel is a skin treatment used to improve the appearance of the skin on the face, chest, hands or other areas. As a medical-grade chemical peel, the VI Peel is an effective treatment to improve several skin conditions and issues including acne, uneven skin texture, uneven tone, fine lines, wrinkles, acne scarring, sagging skin, age and sun spots, enlarged pores and hyperpigmentation. The VI Peel also provides a more youthful look by brightening the overall appearance of the skin and improving collagen production. The VI Peel, like some other chemical peels, can also assist in removing precancerous cells. How does a VI Peel work? Using a chemical solution, VI Peels remove the upper layers of skin to allow the growth of fresh new skin that is smoother and more youthful in appearance, while also increasing collagen production. What are the benefits of a VI Peel over other chemical peels? • Virtually pain-free • Little-to-no downtime • Light peeling that can be masked by using moisturizer • Allows for immediate return to regular activities • Safe and effective on all skin types and tones Who should consider getting a VI peel? The VI Peel can be used on all skin types. The VI Peel has been safely used to manage acne in patients as young as 12 years of age and is effective for use on darker skin tones that have not historically responded well to other chemical peel procedures, such as Asian, African-American or Latino skin tones. How is the procedure performed? A VI Peel can be performed in a medspa or cosmetic dermatology clinic and can be administered by a licensed nurse, a certified aesthetician or a medical doctor. While older procedures for chemical peels included skin preconditioning, there is no preconditioning needed prior to receiving a VI Peel. The application process can take up to 30 minutes and involves the chemical solution being topically applied to the skin. The peel is then left on the skin for five hours and washed off by the patient at home. Some patients experience light stinging during application, which subsides quickly. Patients can receive VI Peels repeatedly every two weeks until they receive their desired results; however, most patients need only one initial treatment followed by regular peels three to four times per year for continuing skin renewal and luminosity. What can I expect from the recovery process? Many patients will notice that their skin appears red or tan after their VI Peel treatment, which is normal and will subside shortly after the procedure. Patients can return to regular activities immediately after their appointment; however, the peel solution must stay on the face for five hours, and strenuous activities, such as exercise, should be avoided until the patient washes the solution off. Patients can apply make-up prior to and after the peeling process, but should not wear make-up while their skin is peeling. The peeling process most often begins on the third day after the procedure and can last from a few days to one week. During the peeling period, patients may have some sensitivity and should avoid sun exposure as much as possible. Moisturizer can be used during this time to mask the light, feathery skin peeling if the patient is concerned about the appearance of their skin. When will I see results? Most patients report noticeable results within a few days after receiving a VI Peel. Results will include an overall improvement in the appearance of the skin including a more youthful glow and improved tone and texture. Is the VI Peel approved for use in the United States? While the VI Peel procedure itself does not hold official FDA approval, each of the ingredients in the peel is FDA-approved. The makers of the VI Peel have also completed a safety study through International Research Services, Inc., which concluded that the VI Peel is safe when used as intended. How much does a VI Peel cost?