Vi Peel is a skin treatment that uses a blend of acids to treat skin conditions such as hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, acne and minor scarring. The specific acids contained in the peel are:
- TCA
- Retin-A
- Salicylic acid
- Phenol
- Vitamin C
The Vi Peel solution is applied at a medical spa or dermatology clinic and washed off by the patient at home. The top layer of skin starts to slough off 3 days after application and continues for a few days. Results are usually evident 4 days after that.
The typical recommendation is to have between 3 and 4 peels per year. Some people may need a series of more frequent peels (as close as every 2 weeks apart) to achieve desired results. This is a relatively pain free procedure with little to no downtime. However, there are other similar treatments to consider when deciding which procedure is right for you.
Vitalize Peel
Like Vi Peel, Vitalize Peel uses a synergistic blend of acids to address pigmentation issues, wrinkles, acne and minor scarring. This particular peel utilizes alpha as well as beta-hydroxy acids, resorcinol and retinoic acid.
This product is also applied at a clinic and washed off by the patient at home. There is a slight stinging sensation associated with this peel that can last from several hours, to up to 72 hours after treatment. You can resume normal activities immediately. The peeling process lasts from 1 to 3 days.
The average number of treatments is 3 to 6, spaced one month apart; this can vary depending on the severity of the condition being treated.
Blue Peel
This peel uses trichloroacetic acid (TCA) mixed with a cream containing a blue dye. The dye is there to show where the product has been applied and how it's penetrating the skin.
The Blue Peel product needs to be applied in a physician's office, or under the direction of a physician. The number of layers applied will vary depending on the skin condition being treated. This procedure doesn't usually require anesthesia, but in some cases it may be necessary.
The face will have a blue tint to it after this peel, that will last from 12 to 24 hours. The peeling process will begin 2 to 3 days after application. This will continue for several days, usually ending by day 10. The skin will have a more even tone, texture and color after it heals.
The doctor will determine how many peels are necessary to see results.
Microdermabrasion
This procedure exfoliates the top layer of skin by blasting it with zinc, aluminum oxide or baking soda. Sometimes the treatment utilizes a wand with a rough surface instead of crystals.
Microdermabrasion can be performed in day spas or medical clinics and does not require anesthesia. It is used to treat more superficial problems with pigmentation, fine lines and clogged pores. Regular treatments are usually necessary to maintain results.
The cost of these different skincare treatments varies considerably throughout the country. However, generally speaking, the least expensive service is microdermabrasion, followed by the Vitalize Peel and Vi Peel, with the Blue Peel being the most costly.
