If you are looking for a way to refresh and renew your skin, you may want to consider chemical peel treatments. A VI chemical peel is a gentle, medium-strength peel that can easily address a variety of concerns, such as discoloration and scarring. Learn everything you need to know about this type of chemical peel before your first appointment at CAS Medispa in Bloomington, IN
How Long Does a VI Chemical Peel Take?
The treatment time for a VI chemical peel is usually about 30 minutes. Unlike other chemical peels, the treatment plan for this exfoliation technique is unique, with part of your treatment being completed at home. It’s the steps for this treatment include:
Step One: Cleanse Skin
The first step of this chemical peel treatment is cleansing the skin. The initial skin cleanse is important since this will remove any dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin that may create a barrier between the chemical solution and your skin. A neutralizing cleanser is generally used to restore the pH balance of your skin, which will help you achieve better results.
Step Two: Apply Peel
The next step of your treatment will be the application of the VI peel solution. Usually, a VI peel solution is applied in two layers. The first layer will introduce the acid solution to your skin to start the exfoliation process. The first layer will sit on your skin for several minutes until it settles or dries down, and then is followed by the second layer.
The second layer will turn white on your skin, which will indicate the acid solution is working to remove your skin cells. At this point, you will be sent home with washing and aftercare instructions.
Step Three: At-Home Cleanse
The VI peel solution will usually sit on your skin for about four to six hours, after which you can wash off your chemical peel treatment at home with a cleanser and warm water. It’s a good idea to use a simple cleanser that does not contain alcohol, fragrances, dyes, or other acids. Please only wash the peel off with your hands, since using a rough washcloth may cause unnecessary skin irritation.
Chemical Peel vs VI Chemical Peel
The goal of a chemical peel is to remove the upper layers of the skin with a special acidic formulation that will turn over new skin cells. However, there is a big difference between a traditional chemical peel and a VI chemical peel. A traditional chemical peel uses strong acids that are only allowed to sit on the skin for about 15 to 20 minutes, whereas a VI peel uses a gentler concentration of acids for a longer period to achieve the same results.
Another major difference between a VI peel and a traditional chemical peel is that you will have to go home immediately after your VI peel to avoid exposure to the sun or other elements in the environment until your peel can be washed off. With a traditional chemical peel, you will be able to resume your normal daily activity.
Why Might a VI Peel Be Better for Your Skin?
For some people, a VI peel may be a better option than a traditional chemical peel. People who have very sensitive skin tend to do better with VI peels, since this exfoliation technique uses gentler formulations to remove the skin. A VI peel falls somewhere between a light-strength chemical peel and a medium-strength chemical peel, so it’s also a good option for people who have mild to moderate skin concerns.
What Are VI Peels Formulated With?
A VI peel is typically formulated with the same types of acids used for a traditional chemical peel; however, the concentration of these acids is much weaker. TCA VI peels usually have a 10% to 12% concentration, while a vitamin C VI peel usually has a 4% concentration. Other common formulations include salicylic acid and tretinoin.
Can a VI Peel Treat Acne?
A VI peel is an ideal treatment solution for acne. Several studies have concluded that chemical peels can be an effective way to manage acne breakouts for individuals who have acne-prone skin. VI peels can help reduce oil production, reduce inflammation, and reduce congested pores. Some formulations can also be used to kill acne-causing bacteria.
Can a VI Peel Help With Hyperpigmentation?
Chemical peels are a perfect exfoliation treatment for all types of hyperpigmentation. Whether you are primarily concerned with post-acne marks or hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage, chemical peels can significantly improve your complexion. Some chemical peels can also be used to correct melasma and blemishes such as freckles.
Can a VI Peel Improve Lines and Wrinkles?
Chemical peel treatments are also a good option for people who have concerns related to fine lines and wrinkles. Although a chemical peel will not increase collagen production to improve sagging skin or deeper wrinkles, exfoliating the top layer of skin cells can reduce invisible fine lines in wrinkles. With repeated treatments, your skin will ultimately look younger and more radiant.
Should You Do Anything To Prepare for Treatment?
To prepare for a chemical peel treatment, you will need to discontinue using any at-home chemicals on your skin. This can include salicylic acid, azelaic acid, retinol, AHA solutions, BHA solutions, and vitamin C. Discontinuing these products will reduce the sensitivity of your skin, which will help your results develop more quickly.
How Should You Take Care of Your Skin After Treatment?
After you wash off the VI peel solution at home, you will need to follow several aftercare instructions so your results develop as desired. You may be prescribed a post-peel solution or serum to use several times a day after your treatment.
It’s important to keep your skin moisturized with ingredients such as aloe vera, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid. You will also need to avoid direct exposure to sunlight for at least two weeks, and be sure to wear sunscreen outside.
How Soon Will You See Your Results?
Most people will see their results about two to four weeks after their initial peel treatment. During this timeframe, dead skin cells will naturally fall away from your skin to reveal new, unblemished skin underneath. You may see your results more quickly if you follow your aftercare instructions closely.
Your results continue to improve as you have consecutive treatments, so if you are treating complex concerns such as acne scars, sun damage, or fine lines, it may take at least three to five consecutive treatments to achieve optimal results.
Can You Enhance Your Results?
You can enhance the results of a chemical peel treatment by adopting good skincare habits. Your primary concern should be to protect your skin from the sun since sunlight is responsible for the vast majority of discoloration and visible aging. If you have active acne breakouts, it’s best to remain consistent with the acne products that work for your skin type, since avoiding future breakouts will help you enjoy longer results.
How Often Can You Have This Treatment?
Usually, you can schedule chemical peel treatments about four to six weeks apart. This is an ideal treatment frequency since it allows the natural cellular turnover cycle of your skin to maintain regularity for your skin barrier. Even people who have very sensitive skin can use this treatment frequently to maintain consistent results.
Can a VI Peel Be Used With Other Aesthetic Facials?
A VI peel can pair very nicely with other aesthetic treatments, such as hydrating facials or other exfoliating facials. Combining treatments can help you more effectively target complex concerns, particularly age-related concerns.
Are You a Good Candidate?
Good candidates for chemical peel treatments include those who have relatively healthy skin, women who are not pregnant or breastfeeding, and people who have not taken Accutane in the last six months. Because VI chemical peels have a gentler formulation, they may even be ideal for people who have very dark complexions or skin conditions such as rosacea.
Refresh Your Skin With a VI Chemical Peel
If you want to refresh your skin with a simple, gentle exfoliation treatment, a chemical peel can be an ideal option. Appointments for VI peel can take 30 minutes since the peel treatment will be washed off that home after several hours. If you think this treatment may be an ideal match for your aesthetic concerns, contact CAS Medispa in Bloomington, IN to schedule your initial appointment today.