by Carolina Fragoso

What is the VI Peel?

The VI Peel is a dermatologist-designed chemical peel designed to remove the top layers of the skin over the course of several days.  It is considered to be a medium grade peel and can only be performed by a licensed esthetician or medical provider.  VI Peels contain a proprietary blend of acids and compounds specifically formulated to address several different skin concerns during the same treatment.  Dullness, acne, hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, irregular skin textures and fine lines and wrinkles are all among the issues that this peel can address. When combining the peel with Botox or dermal fillers, the effect on the folds and wrinkles can be further enhanced.

Since it is so versatile, the VI Peel is appropriate for use on many different skin types.  It is safe for use on many diverse skin colors that may not tolerate other kinds of hyperpigmentation treatments like IPL laser facials.  This peel can also be used on other parts of the body, including the back, chest, hands and even elbows.  Ingredients in the formula act as anesthetics that set in quickly after the peel is applied, making it easy to tolerate any stinging or pain. Artavi Med Spa carries this peel and many different versions of this peel and so I wanted to talk about my experience after having it done at Artavi Med Spa in the Heights in Houston, TX.

Which VI Peel is right for me?

VI Peels come in 5 different formulations created to address the skincare concerns of different demographics.  However, all of the formulations have the same base of salicylic acid, retinoic acid and vitamin C.  Each type of VI Peel is described in detail below:

• Original VI Peel: is the classic formula designed by Dr. Abdala F Khalil for his daughter Marya, who struggled with teenage acne.  Marya is now the president and CEO of VI Peel.

• VI Peel Precision: targets melasma and hyperpigmentation by including kojic acid and hydroquinone in its formulation.

• VI Peel Precision Plus:  has higher, more concentrated amounts of the ingredients in the original peel to provide an even deeper peel.  This makes it more effective at treating aging skin.

• VI Peel Advanced: contains ingredients that stimulate collagen production as well as cell turnover.  It is good for dull, sagging skin.  Artavi Med Spa does not yet carry this version of the peel.

• VI Purify: specifically geared towards acne with the addition of benzoyl peroxide.  It treats surface acne by peeling the uppermost layer of the skin, but also helps soothe still-forming pimples by allowing the benzoyl peroxide to sink deeper into the skin.

• VI Purify Precision Plus: improve the appearance of both acne and age-related skin concerns by offering a combination of the ingredients in the Purify and Precision Plus versions of the peel.

My Personal Experience

My personal experience with the VI Peel Purify Precision Plus was a positive one.  The Purify Precision Plus version of the peel was selected because I have acne-prone skin that had recently suffered from extensive sun exposure during a long distance drive from California to Houston, Tx.  I had congested skin, inflamed acne and pimple scars along with dry, dull skin.  The peel was very quick, taking no more than 15 minutes from start to finish. 

Before performing the peel, the skin must be cleansed of any makeup and excessive oil.  Afterwards, the peel is applied by wiping the skin evenly with a gauze pad that has been saturated with the peel solution.  This process is repeated several times and later continued at home with the nightly use of peeling wipes that are included in the post-care kit.  The kit also includes a gentle cleanser, sunscreen and anti-itch cream that should be used for at least 5 days following the procedure.  The esthetician at Artavi Med Spa went over the post care kit with me in detail after the procedure. The products were easy to use and the information in the packet was easy to understand and follow along at home.

I found the peel to be a very satisfying experience.  The phenol in the solution acts as an effective anesthetic, and I felt it ease the stinging in less than 10 seconds.  The peel does have a strong acetone-like smell that was difficult to handle, but a handheld fan made a big difference.  Immediately after the procedure, the peel solution leaves a dark orange color on the skin.  This can be washed off 2 hours after the peel is applied, or it can be left on up to 4 hours after application.  Leaving it for a longer time allows the ingredients to work deeper on the skin.

It took two days for my skin to begin visibly peeling, and the shedding lasted around 5 days.  While it is very tempting to pull or scratch at the skin, it is important to allow the skin to peel at its own rate, as picking can cause infection or worsen hyperpigmentation. I was told that some people can have heavy peeling and some can have none or just light flaking. I felt that I had more of the light flaking however, the amount of peeling is not supposed to determine how effective the peel was. It just varies depending on the moisture content of your skin and being in Houston, Tx during the summer months, I tend to be more oily than otherwise.

The skin that surfaced after the peel was soft, bright and hydrated.  After a week, many of my freckles and acne scars were gone, and my pimples have lessened since then. Overall, I had a great first experience with the VI Peel and the staff really helped me through what to expect and let me know they were there for any questions I had, even if it was after hours Dr. Desai herself would respond. If I had the opportunity, I would definitely do the peel again in the future and next time probably in combination with Botox or dermal fillers to see an added effect!

If you are interested in scheduling the VI Peel, I highly recommend going to Artavi Med Spa in Houston, Tx. Their number is 832-649-7266 or you can book online directly through their website artavimedspa.com.