Skip to content 
VI Peels Pre & Post Care
Pre-Care: Preparing for Your VI Peel Treatment
- Notify Your Provider of Medication Changes : Inform us if you have started antibiotics or new medications since your initial consultation.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Restrictions : VI Peels are not recommended for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.e your initial consultation.
- Cancer Treatments : Patients currently undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy cannot receive this treatment. If in remission, a six-month waiting period is required.
- Cold Sores or Shingles : Postpone your appointment if you have an active cold sore, fever blister, canker sore, or shingles. If you are prone to cold sores or shingles, contact us one week prior for preventative recommendations.
- Accutane® Use : Wait six months after discontinuing Accutane® before scheduling your peel.
- Shaving Guidelines : Men should shave 24 hours before the procedure, and any excess hair may need to be removed before treatment.
- Avoid Irritating Products : Stop using retinol, retinoids, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, alpha/beta hydroxy acids, Vitamin C, or depilatory creams like Nair® seven days before treatment.
- Botox® and Chemical Peels : Avoid Botox® or fillers for 24 hours before the peel. You may have Botox® on the same day after the peel, but not beforehand.
- Sun Exposure and Tanning : Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for two weeks before treatment.
- Optional Dermaplaning : For better chemical penetration, consider dermaplaning before the peel. Not everyone will experience visible peeling, but this does not impact the effectiveness of the treatment.
Post-Care: After Your VI Peel Treatment
Day 1
- No Products: Avoid applying any skincare products immediately after the peel.
- Sunburn Sensation: Your skin may feel tight, sunburned, and slightly itchy. If discomfort arises, take Benadryl® or Zyrtec® (for itching), Aspirin, or Tylenol® (for pain relief).
- Avoid Makeup and Tight-Fitting Glasses: For the first 3 days, do not wear makeup or glasses with tight nosepieces to prevent uneven peeling.
Day 2
- Dryness and Tightness: Skin will feel dry and start to look uneven, similar to a sunburn. Flaking may begin around the eyes, mouth, or nose.
- Rinse with Tepid Water Only: Use only your fingertips with cool or lukewarm water—no cleansers or moisturizers yet. Do not pick or peel flaking skin.
Day 3
- Peeling Begins: The skin will peel, especially around the treated areas. Avoid pulling off skin prematurely to prevent scarring or hyperpigmentation. If necessary, use manicure scissors to trim loose skin.
- Gentle Cleanser and Hydration: Use a gentle cleanser, such as SkinMedica® Sensitive Skin Cleanser, and follow with SkinMedica® Dermal Repair cream. Avoid SPF, retinoids, and acids until the peeling stops.
Day 4
- Continued Peeling: The most significant peeling will occur between Days 3 and 4. Keep cleansing and moisturizing gently. Some areas may fully peel, while others may not—this is normal.
Day 5
- Gentle Exfoliation: If any skin remains unpeeled, use a gentle scrub to remove it. Avoid direct sun exposure for the next two weeks. You may apply SPF after Day 5, provided it does not irritate.
Day 6 and Beyond
- Resume Skincare Routine: Gradually reintroduce your regular skincare products, including retinol, Vitamin C, and acids, if tolerated.
Weeks 1–2
- Hair Removal: After the first week, you may wax, tweeze, or use depilatory creams.
- Pink Tint: Some clients may notice a pink hue to the skin for up to a week after peeling. Continue wearing SPF to protect your skin during this period.
Follow-Up and Maintenance
- Visible Results: Expect results to become noticeable within one week, as the peeling process reveals fresh skin.
- Lasting Results: With proper care, the benefits of your VI Peel can last for several months.
- Maintenance Peels: We recommend maintenance treatments every 3–6 months for optimal results.
- Sun Protection: Daily SPF 30 or higher use is essential to preserve your results and protect against future skin damage.
Get in touch
