If you want glowy, plump, hyperpigmentation-free skin, a chemical peel is one of the quickest, easiest, and most non-invasive ways to get there — and right now, the VI Peel is the one getting all the attention. Its high-powered formula of acids, retinol, vitamins, and minerals goes beyond a general resurfacing peel: it is made to treat specific concerns, including acne, acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines and wrinkles. Bryan Levandowski took a closer look for Byrdie, consulting four experts — dermatologists Dr. Amanda Doyle, Dr. Tapan Patel, and Dr. Charlotte Birnbaum, and Skin Authority founder Celeste Hilling — to cover everything you need to know about the VI Peel, including its benefits, potential side effects, and cost. I have not had a VI Peel myself, and nothing here is my own experience; I am reporting what Levandowski and those four experts said.
In this article: what the VI Peel is; its benefits; what is in it; how to prepare; what to know before you book; what to expect during the treatment; potential side effects; the cost; aftercare; and the final takeaway.
Key takeaways: the VI Peel combines acids, retinol, and vitamins to improve acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and overall skin texture; dermatologists recommend multiple sessions for the best results; and after treatment, it is essential not to pick at peeling skin and to follow the recommended aftercare so your skin heals properly and you get the best results.
Meet the experts: Dr. Amanda Doyle is a dermatologist at Russak Dermatology in New York City; Dr. Tapan Patel is the medical director of London’s PHI Clinic; Dr. Charlotte Birnbaum is a dermatologist at Spring Street Dermatology in New York City; and Celeste Hilling is the founder of Skin Authority. Everything that follows comes from them, as reported by Levandowski. The article was medically reviewed by Dr. Julia A. Siegel, a board-certified dermatologist, and fact checked by Michelle Regalado.
What Is the VI Peel?
The VI Peel, from the Los Angeles-based Vitality Institute, is a chemical peel that addresses fine lines and wrinkles, acne and acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, melasma, sun damage, and scars. The secret, Levandowski writes, is the synergistic blend of active ingredients — including trichloroacetic acid (TCA), retinoic acid, salicylic acid, phenol, and vitamin C.
Benefits of the VI Peel
There are five different versions of the VI Peel, each tailored to a specific concern — and the benefits fall into three main areas.
Reducing acne and surface acne scars. The peel packs a one-two punch for people with acne, helping treat the symptoms while lessening the appearance of acne scars. As Dr. Patel explains, it “smoothes skin texture, brightens dark areas, soothes inflammation, and increases collagen to plump depressed or pitted skin.” Ice pick scars, rolling scars, and boxcar scars can all be treated — and according to Patel, all scars can benefit from the peel.
Diminishing sun spots and hyperpigmentation. According to Dr. Doyle, the synergistic blend of ingredients is ideal for brightening skin, diminishing sunspots, and leaving the complexion with a refreshing glow.
Smoothing over fine lines and wrinkles. The combination of acids, antioxidants, and exfoliants penetrates the skin deeply, causing what Hilling calls a “resurfacing process that stimulates new cell production, softens fine lines and wrinkles, and increases collagen production.”
While the original VI Peel covers all of the above, Dr. Doyle explained how the other versions deliver more specialized results: Precision Plus is designed for pigmentation issues such as melasma and sun damage, while Purify is best for acne-prone skin. Purify Precision Plus combines the two, and Advanced is designed for aging skin.
What’s in the VI Peel?
Here is the VI Peel from the inside out:
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol. These are familiar skin-smoothers for anyone who knows chemical peels. Together, TCA and phenol create “a controlled injury of the skin, leading to regeneration and resulting in increased collagen production, improved sun damage, pigmentation, and facial lines.”
Salicylic acid. The same go-to active found in many acne products, it gives the VI Peel extra breakout-busting power. “Salicylic acid is used to exfoliate the skin and clean the pores, can reduce mild breakouts of whiteheads and blackheads, and prevents future skin breakouts,” Dr. Patel says.
Retinoic acid. “Retinoid acid is a derivative of vitamin A,” Dr. Doyle says. “It helps to regulate growth and differentiation of skin cells, resulting in a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, improved skin texture, and a reduction in acne and acne scarring.”
Vitamin C. The ingredient of the moment, included as a powerful antioxidant that counters some of the damaging effects of free radicals — and as a brightening agent that can help reduce hyperpigmentation.
Hydroquinone, kojic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and hydrocortisone. Dr. Birnbaum explains that the more targeted versions of the VI Peel might contain these ingredients to address specific concerns, including hyperpigmentation, acne, and inflammation.
How to Prepare for the VI Peel
As with any procedure, start by researching to decide whether you are a good candidate. While many people are good candidates, some may need an alternative treatment: those with active eczema, diabetes-related skin issues, psoriasis, and autoimmune skin conditions — as well as those with darker skin types, for whom peels and laser treatments can carry more risk.
Dr. Birnbaum also stresses the importance of zero sun exposure for a significant period, both before and after treatment, to avoid complications such as hyperpigmentation and scarring.
What to Know Before a VI Peel
If you think the VI Peel is for you, start with a proper evaluation to make sure it is the right choice for your skin type and concerns. That means discussing your medical history, allergies, skin conditions, and medications with your provider — and setting realistic expectations.
Dr. Patel says the treatment is not recommended for those who are pregnant or nursing. She also adds that if you have never had a peel before, or you are unsure about your tolerance, you should discuss that with your provider and proceed cautiously.
What to Expect During a VI Peel
Among chemical peels, the VI Peel is considered non-invasive, and most patients agree it is painless, with little to no discomfort. The treatment itself takes about 30 minutes: your skin is cleansed, and then the peel solution is applied in layers and left on for a time. Patients may feel a slight tingling or burning sensation, which should subside quickly.
Potential Side Effects
Overall, side effects tend to be minimal. Your skin will peel — a lot — afterward, and Hilling says it is normal to experience redness, irritation, and sensitivity for a few days after treatment. There is a risk of scarring, which is especially important for those with darker skin tones. Dr. Patel added that some patients might experience swelling and other temporary irritation.
The Cost
The final cost of a VI Peel depends on your location, your provider, the specific type of peel, and the number of sessions. Dermatologists recommend multiple sessions for the best results, so it is worth discussing the full plan — and the total cost — with your provider before you begin.
Aftercare
In addition to resisting any urge to pick, peel, or even touch your face, aftercare is relatively easy. Use sunscreen and moisturizer as instructed, stay away from aggressive ingredients such as acids and retinol for a few days while your skin heals, and avoid sun exposure.
The Final Takeaway
The VI Peel stands out among chemical peels — an appealing option if you are looking for brighter, smoother, more even, glowy skin. If it sounds right for you, book a consultation with a dermatologist or provider to decide whether it is the right fit for your skin.
