For the love of all things beauty, let’s talk about MASKS vs. PEELS. I love two things when it comes to skincare: eye creams + masks. Masks come in all different forms – sheet masks, clay masks, sleep masks and the list goes on. Masks are an easy at-home treatment while also being most effective to detoxify, rehydrate, absorb excess oil and replenish antioxidants to your skin. Peels can make a more dramatic effect by shedding the outermost layer of your skin to reveal smoother texture, minimize fine lines, even out dark spots and acne scars. Don’t be scared if you are thinking of Samantha’s chemical peel gone wrong on SATC!
My favorite gentle exfoliating peel is the Earthen Instant Peel Natural Dead Skin Remover. I have seen the most dramatic results for my acne-prone skin with the Vi Peel.
About the VI Peel
I have struggled with my acne-prone skin since I can remember – Accutane, photo facials, laser skin resurfaces, lotions and potions, etc. I am on the constant hunt for the next treatment and the VI Peel was the first treatment to truly transform my skin. I make it a point to do at least 1-2 peels a year. Fall is the perfect time to shed damaged skin from summer fun and start anew with a Vi Peel PURIFY!
The VI Peel is a unique combo of Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA), Retin-A, Salicylic Acid, Phenol and Vitamin C for optimal skin renewal. VI Peel offers five different variations to treat different skin concerns and is gentle enough for all ages and skin types. The PURIFY peel is specifically formulated for acne prone skin and includes the power of Benzoyl Peroxide and Kojic Acid. You should find a trusted local provider to administer your Vi Peel procedure.
The Process
You can expect your appointment to be rather quick, it does not take more than 30 minutes from start to finish. The esthetician will ensure to thoroughly cleanse your skin with the VI Derm Cleanser, sulfate & paraben free, to remove all traces of makeup, oil, impurities and environmental pollutants. The VI Peel solution is then applied to the face in layers and leaving you with an orange glow. There should be some special attention and extra rubbing on areas of darker pigmentation. The solution will remain on the skin for a minimum four hours. The longer you are able to leave the peel on, the better the results. You will take home an after-care kit with clear instructions on how and when to remove the VI Peel at home to ensure optimal results. This after-care kit includes Post-Peel Towelettes, VI Derm Cleanser, Post-Peel Protectant and VI Derm SPF 50+.
There I am in all my orange glow glory! After wearing the peel for 4-hours, wash your skin with cold water using the VI Derm Cleanser provided in the after-care kit. The next step is very important. Use the first Post-Peel Towlette over all the areas the VI Peel was applied and rub vigorously. 10 minutes after using the towlette, you can apply a thin layer of the Post-Peel Protectant. For the next 2 nights, you will repeat these steps and use the remaining Post-Peel Towelettes and Post-Peel Protectant. You can apply the Post-Peel Protectant as often as needed and ensure applying SPF even if it’s overcast
What to Expect
The VI Peel has been dubbed the 7-day peel. You can expect the peeling to begin as soon as Day 3. Fight the urge to pick off peeling skin. Causing any trauma can potentially scar or irritate your delicate skin. If you must, take a note from Pheobe when she had the chicken pox and duct tape oven mitts to your hands. I kid, I kid.
VI Peel specifically warns of the following:
- Level of peeling may vary from flaking to heavy peeling
- May experience slight irritation, itchiness, and inflammation
- Dark spots may temporarily darken
- If prone to cold sores the treatment may induce a breakout
During the healing process, you should be sure to avoid sun exposure and religiously apply the VI Derm SPF 50+ sunscreen. The skin revealed post-peel is delicate and sensitive after a VI Peel. Makeup can be worn after the treatment, although during the ‘peeling’ days, you should hold off on wearing any. Many times I have put on a face in the morning only to see my skin shedding in a scary good way! Save your precious makeup for later. You will probably wear less makeup after your peel anyhow!
I’ll update you on my results next week so you can compare. Stay tuned!
