hydroquinone and kojic acid cream

Transforming Hyperpigmentation: Remarkable Before and After Results of VI Peel

Are you tired of dealing with hyperpigmentation, melasma, acne scars, and other skin issues? Then VI Peel might be the solution you need. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about VI Peel, from its definition and uses to its pros and cons, alternatives, and more.

What is VI Peel?

VI Peel is a medical-grade chemical peel that is designed to improve the appearance of the skin by removing dead skin cells and stimulating collagen production. It contains a blend of powerful ingredients, including salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), retinoic acid, phenol, and vitamin C, which work together to exfoliate the skin, reduce pigmentation, and boost elasticity.

VI Peel works by penetrating the skin’s surface to stimulate collagen production and exfoliate dead skin cells. The acids in the peel break down the bonds between the old skin cells and encourage them to slough off, revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath. The peel also helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation by promoting skin cell turnover and fading dark spots.

This therapy is suitable for individuals who want to improve the appearance of their skin and address specific skin concerns such as:

  • Hyperpigmentation
  • Melasma
  • Acne scars
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Uneven skin tone
  • Rough texture
  • Enlarged pores
  • Sun damage

VI Peel Before and After

This treatment involves the application of a customized blend of chemicals to the skin, which works to remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells and stimulate the growth of new, healthy skin cells. The end result is smoother, more even-toned, and youthful-looking skin.

Before getting a VI Peel, it is important to consult with a qualified skin care professional who can assess your skin type and determine if this treatment is right for you. Depending on your particular requirements and skin type, the solution will be delicately applied to your skin using a brush or cotton swab and kept on for a certain period of time. During the procedure, you can feel a mild tingling or burning sensation, but this is typical and normally passes soon.

Your skin will be sensitive after the VI Peel procedure and might seem mildly irritated or red. Remember to adhere to the aftercare recommendations given by your skincare specialist, which may include avoiding direct sunlight and using sun protection measures like sunscreen or protective clothes. For a while, you may also need to refrain from using certain skincare or cosmetics items to enable your skin to recover correctly.

You will start to see changes in the texture and tone of your skin in the days and weeks after your VI Peel treatment. Your skin may seem more even-toned, feel softer and smoother, and have less fine lines and wrinkles. Maintaining excellent skin health requires a mix of consistent skincare regimens and recurrent visits to your skincare specialist for maintenance procedures.

VI Peel at Home

Chemical peels like the VI Peel are often applied at a dermatologist’s clinic or medical spa. However, those who like to enhance the look and texture of their skin without leaving their homes may also employ at-home variations of the VI Peel.

A pre-peel solution, the actual peel solution, and a post-peel protectant are often included in the VI Peel at-home package. Together, these products exfoliate the skin, minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and enhance skin texture and tone.

To guarantee safety and efficacy, thoroughly read and adhere to the directions before using a VI Peel at home. Before applying a treatment to the whole face, it is also advised to do a patch test on a tiny piece of skin. Any probable allergic responses or negative side effects may be found with this.

You should prepare the skin for an at-home VI Peel by washing it completely and taking off any makeup or other cosmetics. The extra oils and dirt are then removed from the skin by using the pre-peel solution. The peel solution is applied with a brush or sponge once the skin has dried, being careful to keep the eye region and any areas of skin damage out of the way.

A post-peel protectant is used after the peel solution has been on the skin for a certain period of time, often about 30 minutes. This barrier aids in calming the skin and encouraging healing after a peel.

The peel solution is left on the skin for a specified amount of time (usually around 30 minutes), after which it is neutralized with water and a post-peel protectant is applied. This protectant helps soothe the skin and promote healing following the peel.

Individuals with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions may not be good candidates for chemical peels, even if they are done at home.

VI Peel for Melasma and VI Peel for Acne Scars

VI Peel can be used to treat various skin conditions, including melasma and acne scars. When a chemical solution is applied to the skin, the top layer of skin begins to peel off, exposing the smoother, more even-looking skin underneath. VI Peel is a medium-depth peel that targets certain skin issues with a mix of chemicals.

Brown or gray spots on the face, notably on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip, are a typical symptom of the skin disorder melasma. Hormonal changes, such as those that happen during pregnancy or with the use of birth control pills, are often the reason. Melasma may be challenging to cure, but VI Peel has been shown to be successful in fading the dark spots’ appearance by concentrating on the excess melanin that produces it. Retinoic acid, hydroquinone, acid kojic, and vitamin C are some of the chemicals in the VI Peel recipe that combine to lighten and brighten the skin.

Another frequent skin issue that VI Peel may address is acne scarring. Severe acne, picking at pimples, or other skin damage may result in acne scars. It might be difficult to cover them up with makeup since they can be elevated, pitted, or discolored. By accelerating cell turnover and enhancing collagen formation, VI Peel may help fade acne scars. This helps to enhance the skin’s general look and smooth out the texture of the skin. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA), salicylic acid, and retinoic acid are all included in the VI Peel recipe and together they exfoliate the skin and promote collagen synthesis.

After receiving a VI Peel treatment, it’s particularly crucial to steer clear of the sun since your skin will be more susceptible to UV radiation. To obtain the greatest outcomes, it’s crucial to properly follow all post-treatment recommendations.

Pros and Cons of VI Peel

Pros

  • Improves the appearance of the skin
  • Reduces hyperpigmentation, melasma, and acne scars
  • Stimulates collagen production
  • Smooths fine lines and wrinkles
  • Evens out skin tone and texture
  • Minimal downtime
  • Quick procedure

Cons

  • Can be expensive
  • May cause temporary redness, peeling, and dryness
  • Not suitable for all skin types
  • Requires multiple treatments for optimal results

Tips for Getting the Most Out of VI Peel

  • Follow all pre and post-procedure instructions given by your dermatologist
  • Avoid excessive sun exposure before and after treatment
  • Do not pick or scratch at any peeling or flaking skin
  • Keep the skin hydrated and moisturized
  • Use sunscreen daily to protect the skin from UV damage

Alternatives to VI Peel

If VI Peel is not suitable for you, or if you are looking for alternative treatments, here are some options to consider:

  • Microneedling
  • Laser resurfacing
  • Chemical peels (glycolic, salicylic, lactic acid)
  • IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy
  • Dermabrasion

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a non-invasive way to improve the appearance of your skin, VI Peel may be right for you. This medical-grade chemical peel can help address a range of skin concerns, from hyperpigmentation and melasma to fine lines and wrinkles. While there are some potential downsides to consider, the benefits of VI Peel are significant, and it has been shown to produce noticeable results with minimal downtime.

FAQs

  1. How long does it take for VI Peel to provide results? Most people start to see improvement in their skin’s appearance within a week of the treatment, with optimal results visible after two to three weeks.
  2. Is VI Peel safe for sensitive skin? People with eczema, rosacea, or highly sensitive skin should avoid using VI Peel. It is advisable to speak with a dermatologist before starting the procedure to see if your skin is a good candidate.
  3. How often should I have VI Peel treatments? Depending on the severity of your skin issues, many treatments could be necessary to attain the best results. Based on your particular requirements, your dermatologist will be able to suggest a treatment strategy.
  4. Does VI Peel hurt? Some people may experience mild discomfort during the treatment, but it is generally well-tolerated. Your dermatologist may apply a numbing cream before the procedure to minimize any discomfort.
  5. Can VI Peel be used on other parts of the body besides the face? VI Peel can be used on other parts of the body, such as the neck, chest, and hands, to improve the appearance of sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles.

EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS FOR ELIMINATING BROWN SPOTS

If you’re eager to eliminate those stubborn brown spots, the good news is that there are various solutions available. While brown spots are typically benign and pose no health risks, it’s crucial to monitor any that change in color, size, or texture and to visit your dermatologist regularly. Although treatment for benign spots isn’t necessary, their removal or fading can be both cosmetically and psychologically rewarding. After all, who wouldn’t want a clearer, more even skin tone?

What should I know about spots?

Brown spots, also known as age spots, liver spots, solar lentigines, or sun spots, are flat, oval areas of increased pigmentation that vary in size. Typically gray, tan, brown, or black, these spots appear on areas of the skin that have received the most sun exposure over the years, such as the face, backs of hands, tops of feet, forearms, shoulders, and upper back. They can affect anyone, regardless of sex or race; however, brown spots are more common in individuals with fair skin, a history of frequent sun exposure, regular tanning bed use, and those over 40 years of age.

What causes spots?

Brown spots are caused by overactive pigment cells known as melanocytes. Ultraviolet (UV) light accelerates the production of melanin, the skin pigment responsible for a tan or darker skin. After years of UV exposure, melanin can clump together or be produced in high concentrations, leading to the appearance of brown spots.

There are three main types of benign skin pigmentation resulting from overactive melanocytes: freckles, solar lentigines, and melasma.

FRECKLES

Freckles can be seen as a genetic gift from Mother Nature. These small, flat spots range in color from pale to dark brown and result from an overproduction of melanin in response to UV light exposure. Typically, real freckles are found on younger skin, especially in children, and are most common among individuals with red hair and fair skin that burns easily. They tend to be more noticeable in sun-exposed areas during the summer months and often fade during the winter season.

SOLAR LENTIGINES

Solar lentigines, commonly known as age spots, are dark patches that develop from prolonged sun exposure and are generally harmless. These flat, actinic keratosis lesions can appear yellowish, gray, or light brown, with clearly defined edges. Some may have a dry or slightly scaly texture. Unlike freckles, which are smaller and more diffuse, lentigines are larger and more distinct, typically found on areas such as the face, hands, and chest, accumulating over time due to sun exposure. Unlike freckles, they do not fade in winter and can occur anywhere on the body; they are usually benign.

On the other hand, actinic keratosis represents another form of sun damage that may have the potential to become cancerous. These spots are flat or slightly raised, reddish-brown, and have a more abrasive appearance, often with a scaly surface. Surprisingly, nearly 60 million Americans are affected by this type of sun damage to their skin.

A Woods Lamp (black light) evaluation allows us to detect cumulative skin damage before it becomes visible to the naked eye. It can be eye-opening to observe the extent of sun damage that has already occurred. Since there is always a chance that new lesions may develop in the future, the best preventive measures include avoiding sun exposure, using a broad-spectrum high-SPF sunscreen, and wearing protective clothing and hats.

MELASMA

If you have a Mediterranean-type olive complexion or are of Latin, Asian, or Middle Eastern descent, you are more likely to develop melasma. This condition manifests as large dark patches of pigmentation caused by overactive melanocytes, often appearing as mask-like areas on the cheeks, temples, above the upper lip, and/or forehead. Melasma is believed to be influenced by excessive or repeated sun exposure, as well as hormonal changes. It can develop during the use of birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, or pregnancy, which is why it is sometimes referred to as a “pregnancy mask.” While melasma may be visually unappealing, it is not dangerous and does not cause any physical discomfort.

Another type of brown spot is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which occurs as a result of skin injury. PIH is more common in individuals with darker skin tones and appears as patches triggered by inflammation from conditions such as acne, eczema, or trauma. After the initial condition resolves, dark spots may remain, and their fading over time can vary from person to person.

Words of caution and when you should see a doctor

Another type of brown spot is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which occurs as a result of injury to the skin. PIH is more prevalent among individuals with darker skin tones and manifests as patches triggered by inflammation from conditions such as acne, eczema, or trauma. After the initial skin condition resolves, dark spots may remain, and their tendency to fade over time can vary from person to person.

What spots can be treated? 

Brown spots, including liver spots, freckles, solar lentigines, and other benign pigmented lesions that develop after years of sun exposure, can be removed or faded from almost any area of your body. Conditions such as melasma, sun-related brown spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can also be effectively treated. However, actinic keratoses and any abnormal-looking lesions should be evaluated and treated by a physician.

Types of spot treatments

Since the pigment is located at the base of the epidermis—the outermost layer of skin—any treatments aimed at lightening brown spots must penetrate this layer effectively.

Medications and prescription lightening creams containing hydroquinone or kojic acid (pigment-bleaching agents) can be used alone or in combination with retinoids (like tretinoin) and mild steroids to gradually fade spots over several months. However, these treatments may cause temporary side effects, including itching, redness, burning, or dryness. It’s essential to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 during treatment.

FotoFacial or IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments emit a range of light waves that pass through the skin to target and destroy melanin, breaking up the spots without damaging the skin’s surface. Typically, two to three sessions are required, and after treatment, spots may appear like coffee ground speckles that flake off and gradually fade over several weeks or months. It’s crucial to avoid sun exposure for at least four weeks before treatment and to use sun protection liberally afterward to ensure optimal results.

Cryotherapy, or freezing, destroys the excess pigment by applying liquid nitrogen or another freezing agent to the spots. This treatment is quick but can be painful, and afterward, there may be some discomfort, blistering, or temporary redness and swelling. As the area heals, the skin may appear lighter. Cryotherapy is generally used for single brown spots or small groupings, but it carries a slight risk of permanent darkening of a spot (PIH), lightening of surrounding skin, or scarring.

Chemical peels involve applying an acid that removes the outer layer of skin to allow new skin to grow in its place. Several treatments may be necessary before seeing results, and strong sun protection is advised following the procedure. Temporary redness is common, with a slight risk of permanent changes in skin color.

Microdermabrasion is a less aggressive option that smooths the outer layers of skin using inert crystals to exfoliate. This treatment requires multiple sessions over several months to achieve desired results and is not recommended for those with rosacea or small red veins on the face. After microdermabrasion, mild redness may appear but typically resolves within a few hours, with flaky skin for three to four days. It can be effective, especially when combined with chemical peels.

Non-ablative laser spot removals destroy melanocytes without harming the skin’s surface. At YouBaby Skin Spa, we use a picosecond laser and PICO Genesis Spot treatments, which deliver light deep into the skin at a trillionth of a second. This breaks up melanocytes, allowing them to be eliminated by the body’s lymphatic system. The treated area may darken, resemble bruising, or form a crust for a few days, but fades over the following weeks, improving both the spots and the skin’s texture. Several treatments are recommended to build upon the results of previous sessions as the skin regenerates collagen and absorbs the debris.

Ablative laser resurfacing is a more aggressive treatment that removes sun-damaged cells to refresh the skin and fade spots. This method removes the outermost layer of skin, allowing new skin to grow back, but requires considerable recovery time and healing. One or two treatments can effectively address age spots quickly.

Prevention

To help prevent the reappearance of brown spots and the formation of new ones after treatment, follow these tips to limit your sun exposure:

  1. Avoid the Sun Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
    The sun’s rays are most intense during this time, so try to schedule outdoor activities for earlier or later in the day.
  2. Use Sunscreen.
    Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. Choose a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Be sure to apply it generously and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
  3. Cover Up.
    Wear tightly woven clothing that covers your arms and legs, along with a broad-brimmed hat, which offers better protection than a baseball cap or golf visor. Consider clothing specifically designed for sun protection, labeled with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 40 to 50 for optimal safety.
  4. Never Use Tanning Beds.
    Avoid tanning beds, as they can contribute to skin damage and increase the risk of developing new brown spots.

CONCLUSION

Spot removal is not a new concept, and the type of treatment varies, offering different outcomes. In some cases, spots may never be completely eliminated but can fade significantly, becoming much lighter. Proper home care is essential after any removal treatment to maximize your results. Alongside sunscreen, common aftercare typically includes a tyrosinase inhibitor (which targets the enzyme responsible for melanin formation) and a lightening agent.

We design an individualized program tailored to your skin type, the specific spots you have, and the treatment administered. Share your goals with us, and we will guide you to the appropriate treatment options.