

What is a Vitality Institute Peel®?
The VI Peel (Vitality Institute Peel) is a medium-depth, medical-grade chemical peel designed to rejuvenate the skin by improving texture, correcting pigmentation issues, and reducing signs of aging and acne. Unlike traditional chemical peels that rely on a high concentration of a single acid, the VI Peel uses a synergistic, proprietary blend of active ingredients to deeply exfoliate the skin and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.
The standard VI Peel formula includes:
-
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA): Penetrates deeply to smooth scarring and stimulate collagen growth.
-
Retinoic Acid (Vitamin A): Speeds up cell turnover and suppresses melanin production.
-
Salicylic Acid: Exfoliates the tissue in the pores, reducing acne-causing bacteria and inflammation.
-
Phenol: Acts as a chemical exfoliant and a localized numbing agent to ensure comfort.
-
Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that brightens the skin and combats free radical damage.


Why It Is Considered an Industry Leader
The VI Peel has earned a reputation as one of the best and most popular chemical peels in the aesthetic industry because it resolved several historical limitations of traditional chemical peels.
1. Safe for All Skin Types (Fitzpatrick I-VI)
Historically, medium-to-deep chemical peels carried a high risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) for individuals with medium to dark skin tones. The VI Peel was the first peel specifically formulated to be safe and highly effective for all Fitzpatrick skin types, making it an industry breakthrough for treating conditions like melasma in darker skin.
2. Virtually Painless Application
Deep chemical exfoliation usually comes with intense burning or stinging. Because the VI Peel formula includes phenol—which gently numbs the skin on contact—patients typically only feel a mild, temporary tingling sensation during application.
3. Maximum Results with Minimal Downtime
The peel delivers the dramatic results of a medium-depth peel with the downtime of a much lighter treatment. The actual peeling process usually only lasts about three to four days (typically starting on day three and resolving by day seven), allowing patients to return to their normal routines quickly without the raw, blistering recovery periods associated with older, aggressive peels.
4. Highly Versatile and Customizable
Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, the VI Peel serves as a foundational treatment that can be customized. Vitality Institute developed targeted variations of the peel (such as VI Peel Purify for acne-prone skin, or VI Peel Precision Plus for stubborn pigmentation) to address specific dermatological concerns, allowing practitioners to tailor the treatment to the exact needs of the patient.
5. Safe for the Delicate Eye Area
Unlike many harsh chemical exfoliants that must completely avoid the orbital bone, the VI Peel is gentle enough to be applied under the eyes. This makes it an excellent tool for treating dark circles, fine lines, and crepey skin in a notoriously difficult-to-treat area.
Why choose Reflections Med Spa for VI Peels?
When you want to achieve a smooth, softer, healthier looking skin, Chicagoland residents can depend on the medical professionals at Reflections Med Spa.
Customized consultation with a board-certified provider who will discuss and evaluate your individual needs, expectations and concerns.
Our staff of seasoned medical professionals are trained to expertly and efficiently conduct VI Peels
treatments for a beautiful and lasting result.
We deliver safe, quality and effective VI Peel treatments under the care of our friendly staff and in an inviting, clean spa environment.
VI Peel Before & After
What to Expect
BEFORE
Discontinue all retinol, retinoids, and topical prescriptions 7 days prior to treatment. No sun exposure or sun tan 14 days prior or post-treatment. This treatment cannot be performed on pregnant or nursing patients.
DURING
This chemical exfoliation treatment will include a unique formula of various acids to target specific skin concerns. This formula will be layered onto the skin for desired results. It is common to feel a slight tingling sensation during the first layer of the peel. Your provider will fan the area to help with the slight irritation. Depending on the providers' recommendation, more layers will be added on with a similar heat sensation that will then be cooled by a fan. At the end of the treatment, your provider will recommend medical-grade skincare products for desired results.
AFTER
-
Beginning the day of the peel until peeling is complete, use a gentle cleanser. Avoid scrubs, exfoliants, and acne cleansers unless otherwise instructed. Avoid using a Clarisonic brush during the peeling process.
-
Avoid picking or assisting the peel to come off. Treat the skin gently.
-
Do not use retinoids, glycolic and salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, etc. for 5-7 days post-treatment.
-
Refrain from using makeup for several hours after the peel.
-
Use a gentle moisturizer. Do not use a moisturizer that contains exfoliants or irritating ingredients.
-
Your skin will be more sun-sensitive. Avoid sun exposure as much as possible. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Wear a wide-brimmed hat if you will be outside for an extended period of time.
-
You may resume waxing and tweezing after about 8 days as long as you are no longer peeling or feeling sensitive.
-
By the end of the second week, you should be able to tolerate retinoids, glycolic and salicylic acids.
Disclaimer
This information provided is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional l and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this content is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. You are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns. Use of this information is at your own risk. We are not responsible for any adverse effects, or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided.

