The VI Peel is a specially formulated, medical-grade chemical peel designed to improve skin's appearance when struggling with sun damage, acne, or the signs of aging. The skin on the face, hands, chest, or other areas of the body can be rejuvenated as unsightly wrinkles, acne, unevenness, age spots, and more are reduced in appearance, while youthful collagen production revives skin from the inside out. VI Peels have proven effective in the treatment of numerous forms of skin damage, and can also aid in the removal of precancerous skin cells.
How does a VI Peel work?
A unique chemical solution is applied to the skin to remove the damaged surface layers, allowing the healthy skin underneath to be revealed, while collagen from within the tissue is encouraged to flourish.
What are the advantages of a VI Peel over other procedures?
• Suitable for all skin types, including darker skin
• Less painful than other chemical peel procedures
• Minimal downtime or recovery
• Peeling is easily masked with moisturizer
• Patients can return to normal activities immediately
Who is a candidate for a VI Peel?
Anyone seeking to improve their skin's tone and reduce blemishes may be a candidate for a VI peel. The VI peel has been tested and used on individuals of a variety of skin tones, including Asian, African-American, and Latino skin types, which traditionally have not always responded positively to chemical peel treatments. The VI peel was originally developed as a treatment for acne and acne scarring, and is still extremely successful at treating this sometimes frustrating condition in individuals as young as 12-years-old.
How is the procedure performed?
The VI Peel treatment is performed in a cosmetic dermatology practice or medspa by a nurse, aesthetician, or cosmetic physician. No pre-treatment is required before the peel, making the VI peel more convenient that other chemical peels. The treatment area is cleansed, and then the peel is spread topically over it. The process usually takes only 20 to 30 minutes to complete, and most patients remain comfortable throughout although a minor stinging sensation is normal. The patient will be able to resume normal activity right away, but must leave the peel on the skin for five hours following the appointment.
What is the recovery like?
Following the application of the chemical peel solution, skin may appear reddish or tan for a brief time but this can be concealed with make-up. Cosmetics can be worn before and after the skin peels, but should be avoided during the actual peeling process.
Around day three following the procedure, the damaged surface layers of skin will begin to peel away, and will continue to do so for up to a week. While the skin is actively peeling, the patient should avoid the use of make-up, but is encouraged to apply moisturizers to minimize the appearance of peeling. The skin may be more sensitive while it is peeling, but this will fade when the peeling period is complete.
Patients can return to work or other daily activities immediately after receiving their VI Peel, though strenuous exercise should wait until after the first five hours after the chemical peel solution is applied.
What will my results be like?
Positive changes in the skin's overall aesthetic will be noticeable just a few days after treatment. Depending on the nature of a patient's skin concerns, they may wish to schedule a series of VI peels every two weeks for intense improvement of the skin's appearance, however many patients are satisfied with the results of just one peel. Most experts do reccomend maintenence peels a few times per year to continue to enjoy the results and to protect against aging and sun damage.
Is the VI Peel approved for use in the U.S.?
The VI Peel itself is not yet approved by the FDA, but every ingredient in the VI Peel is FDA-approved. The VI Peel has been widely used and its safety has been evaluated by clinical studies by International Research Services, Inc., which report that the VI Peel performs safely and effectively in the treatment of acne, age-related concerns, sun damage, and more.
Is the VI Peel covered by insurance companies?
No. Insurance providers do not cover procedures that are purely cosmetic, or are not considered medically necessary. However, many specialists provide in-house financing options for patients who would like to finance a payment plan to make VI Peels and other procedures more affordable.
How much does a VI Peel cost?
The cost of a VI Peel will vary depending on the patient's geographic location and the individual provider's fees, but can range from $400 to $500 per treatment. Many providers also recommend the VI Derm Skin Care System, which is usually available in conjunction with the VI Peel, and the products can cost from $32 to $88. Talk to a specialist for more information about your particular costs and the benefits of a VI Peel.
Disclaimer: This information is intended only as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor does it guarantee results of your elective surgery. Further details regarding surgical standards and procedures should be discussed with your physician.
By DermaNetwork.org Staff
Updated: August 20, 2009
