Over the years, I've left virtually no stone unturned in my quest for clear, even, and glowing skin. Spanning lasers and radiofrequency microneedling to Korean skin boosters like skin Botox and even the infamous salmon sperm facial, I'm compelled to throw an outsized portion of my income to anything that might keep my hormonal acne at bay and fade the post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that's always left in its wake. I'd love to report that each and every treatment has been worth the cost - and sometimes, the pain, discomfort, and downtime - but the truth is that more often than not, I'm left disappointed with lackluster results. However, there's one holy grail treatment that consistently outperforms the rest: the mighty VI Peel.
Ahead, I'm unpacking why this chemical peel, which is safe for virtually all skin types and tones, works like magic for acne, hyperpigmentation, and then some. Plus: my before-and-after photos and what to expect if you're game to try it for yourself.
Experts Featured in This Article
Caroline Godsick is an aesthetician and founder of The LA Skin Club in West Hollywood, California.
What Is a VI Peel?
Created by the Vitality Institute in Los Angeles, the VI Peel is a chemical peel that's customized based on your skin type and concerns. "They stand out from traditional peels because they use a combination of acids and compounds to yield a variety of benefits," says aesthetician Caroline Godsick. "They're also safe for all skin tones, meaning even higher Fitzpatrick skin types can receive the treatment." (In the worst case scenario, some chemical peels may run the risk of exacerbating, rather than managing, hyperpigmentation in skin of color.) "The peel is also self-neutralizing, which can help reduce the risk of irritation," Godsick says.
Your aesthetician, dermatologist, or aesthetic provider can help you determine which type of VI Peel is best for you. For instance, Godsick advised me to do the VI Peel Purify with Precision Plus when I was dealing with a gnarly case of hormonal acne two years ago. Since that's now mostly under control (cue my massive sigh of relief) and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation remains my biggest issue, I've pivoted to the pigmentation-focused VI Peel Precision Plus. Other varieties are suitable for sensitive skin and mature skin.
What they all have in common is their star ingredients. Per Godsick, every bottle contains:
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA), which removes the top layers of the skin and stimulates collagen and elastin production. Phenol, which deeply exfoliates, treats hyperpigmentation, and offers a numbing effect for a pain-free peel. Salicylic acid, which offers anti-inflammatory properties and clears pores to combat acne. Vitamin C, which helps to brighten the skin, reduce hyperpigmentation, and stimulate collagen production.What to Expect During a VI Peel
Your provider will start treatment with a quick facial cleanse, followed by swipes with an alcohol pad to ensure that no oil or residue remains on your skin. They will then mix the chemical solution in a bowl before brushing it onto your face in layers. It feels a bit spicy, but shouldn't be painful. Your provider will typically gauge your comfort with each pass and manage any heat by waving a fan as it settles in.
The treatment takes no longer than 30 minutes, but you'll actually leave with the peel still on. It's a bit sticky, has an orange tint, and packs a noticeable chemical smell, so plan the rest of your day accordingly. You'll also walk out with a post-treatment kit in tow, which includes two days' worth of peel pads (mine packed anti-hyperpigmentation heavy hitters like hydroquinone and kojic acid, plus pro-aging vitamin C and retinoic acid) as well as a gel cleanser, anti-itch cream, and SPF 50. Four hours later, you wash off the peel and begin your at-home care as guided by the kit's instructions.
During VI Peel
Your skin might feel tight and itchy (mine especially so during the first night), but you can apply the cream as needed for relief. The oddly satisfying experience of shedding dead, dry skin typically starts on day three, tapers off by day five, and pretty much subsides after day seven. FYI: You have to cease use of your usual topicals and commit to using only the kit's cleanser, cream, and SPF for the full week.
VI Peel Results
The results of your VI Peel may vary according to which one you get and the severity of your concerns.
Generally speaking, though, benefits typically include:
Smaller and/or fewer breakouts Lighter sun spots and hyperpigmentation Brighter, more even-toned skin Smoother, more even skin texture A reduction in fine lines and wrinklesHow Often Should You Get a VI Peel?
It's possible to notice slight improvements after just one VI Peel. But for optimal results, you'll be better off getting a consecutive monthly series of at least three and as many as six. "When dealing with acne or hyperpigmentation, we need to be able to dive deeper as these skin concerns are more stubborn to treat," says Godsick. For reference, four VI Peels were enough to significantly (but not entirely) clear up my hormonal acne when I first committed to the treatment.
VI Peel Day 3
Results will also vary based on how much of your dead skin actually sheds, says Godsick. She notes that most of her clients peel more on their second and third treatments than on the first, indicating more skin cell turnover and fresher skin to be revealed.
How Much Does a VI Peel Cost?
A single VI Peel typically costs between $325 and $550, depending on factors such as your provider's expertise and location. Many providers offer discounted rates when you buy a package of three or more treatments, resulting in a lower price per session and more beautiful skin to boot.
My VI Peel Experience
Although I hadn't had a VI Peel in the two years since I discovered it, I'm thrilled that it officially maintains A-list status in my treatment lineup. One peel was enough to shrink a sizable hormonal zit on my cheek, as well as lighten the post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from another. I also always love how fresh and supple my skin feels after the shed, not to mention the glass-like sheen, brightness, and vitality that lasts for weeks thereafter.
Honorable mentions go to the shed itself - which I find incredibly satisfying but understandably frightened my five-year-old nephew - as well as the immense level of hydration my skin soaks up upon my celebratory sheet mask on day eight.
Above all, I have to give kudos to the magicians behind VI Peel, as well as Godsick, for offering such an effective treatment against acne and hyperpigmentation that's also safe for my Fitzpatrick-4 type skin. Anyone who's ever battled acne and its aftermath to no avail knows how defeating the experience can be - but I can attest that the VI Peel isn't just worth it; it's a total game-changer.
Michele Ross is a freelance writer specializing in wellness, culture, and beauty. Her work has appeared in Well+Good, Coveteur, Editorialist, GQ, Vice, and Teen Vogue, with brand clients including Peloton, Moon Juice, and Hum Nutrition. She's grateful to cover her many interests - including but not limited to self-care, self-development, skin care, coffee, travel, and Korean culture. Read More Details
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