Chemical Peels
Chemical peeling is a technique used to improve the appearance of sun damaged and aging skin. A chemical solution is applied to the skin which causes the epidermis or outer layer of skin to separate and peel off. This allows new skin to regenerate at a faster than normal rate. The new skin is often smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin and may be more even in color. There are many different peels of varying intensity to choose from. Many people decide to do a series of 4-6 superficial light peels on a monthly basis to gently exfoliate the outer layer of skin with minimal downtime. Others, if their schedule allows, choose a single medium depth peel that penetrates deeper, with better results, but with visible redness and peeling that can last for up to a week. Our staff can help you determine which skin peel may best fit your needs. With any chemical peel, remember to discontinue all skin care products containing Retinol or Retin A (tretinoin) as being on these topicals can cause your peel to penetrate more deeply than expected.

Vi Peel
Why wait weeks or months for results when you can enjoy beautiful, radiant skin in about a week?  The newest skin peel at Manhattan Beach Dermatology is the Vi Peel, which contains a synergistic blend of powerful ingredients suitable for all skin types, for dramatic results with virtually no pain, no skin preparation and little downtime.

The Vi Peel helps:
How many peels can you do and how far apart should they be done?
For most patients, peels should be done three to four times a year starting in your mid 20s to mid 30s to repair sun damage that is already present. For those with acne, peels can be started in your teens to reduce acne breakouts and to avoid permanent scarring. The frequency of the peel depends on various factors, and will be determined during your consultation at Manhattan Beach Dermatology. For extremely damaged skin, a series of Vi Peels can initially be done once a month to get quicker desired results.

How many treatments are required to show an improved look?

A single Vi Peel will result in significant repair and add a healthy glow to the skin. Some conditions like acne scars, pore enlargement, and hyperpigmentation often require multiple treatments on a monthly basis.

What will the Vi Peel do for my skin?
It tackles skin problems at the cellular level rather than just burning skin off. Thanks to the concerted actions of its many acids and vitamins, it will help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, shrink enlarged pores, and build collagen and elastin which tighten skin. It is extremely effective in reducing or eliminating hyperpigmentation including melasma, the most difficult pigmentation issue to correct. The Vi Peel also provides excellent results for acne. Hyperpigmentation will be improved or eliminated, depending on the amount of damage. Tone and texture will also be improved for a more youthful, radiant appearance.

Will results be long lasting?
Of course your skin is constantly aging for as long as you are alive. How long results last varies from patient to patient. For best results, avoid the sun, wear sunscreen daily, and use skin care products containing retinoids, antioxidants, and growth factors. Ideally, the Vi Peel should be performed three to four times per year to help maintain results.

What types of skin respond well to the Vi Peel?
The many innovations that created the Vi Peel combine to allow ALL skin types to enjoy the benefits of the peel. For the first time, African-American and darker skin types such as Asian and Latin patients can experience anti-aging and restorative skin repair previously unavailable.

Is the Vi Peel painful?
You will feel a stinging sensation for a few seconds which subsides almost immediately. No anesthesia is necessary as the discomfort is mild and of short duration. The peel is applied topically, and numbing of the skin takes place after the first pass. Some patients may feel more comfortable using a fan or cold air breeze. There is no pain after the procedure and during the healing phase.

How badly will I peel?
The skin peeling associated with the Vi Peel is a light exfoliation that will start on day three and generally be finished by the end of day four. The peeling is easily hidden by using moisturizers. In some cases, the peel is virtually invisible. Patients using topical retinoids may experience heavier peeling. The peel can be modulated by your skin care provider to produce a deeper, more aggressive peel, if necessary, depending on your skin condition.

What will I look like right after the Vi Peel and during the next few days?

The skin will look slightly tan, yellow or red immediately after the peel. You can apply makeup 2 hours after the peel solution is applied. On days one and two, the skin will feel slightly tighter, with no visible signs of having had a peel. Any pigmented areas might appear slightly darker. On approximately day three, you will begin to peel. The first signs of peeling usually begin around the mouth area and continue for a day or two. With the use of the Vi Derm moisturizer, you may go about your usual daily routine. By day six or day seven, you will be finished peeling and should see the results. If a more aggressive peel was performed, a secondary peel might occur around day seven.

Can I go in the sun after the Vi Peel?
Sun exposure should be limited and hats and sunscreen should be used. However, the Vi Peel was created to be practical. The only days where exposure to the sun should be seriously avoided are days three and four, when the skin is peeling. After that, you can enjoy outdoor activities, continuing regular skin care maintenance and daily sun protection.

Will my skin be more sensitive after the Vi Peel?
The skin will be more sensitive during the peeling process. We recommend special moisturizers and cleansers to use during this time along with zinc oxide containing sunscreen and, of course, sun avoidance.

What about normal activities after the Vi Peel?
We recommend avoiding heavy sweating and intense exercise for the first few days after the peel. Normal daily activities can be resumed immediately after the peel.

What about the hands or chest?
The Vi Peel is effective in removing sunspots from the hands, arms and chest and eliminating the wrinkles associated with sun damage on the décolletage. The peeling process is more gradual and takes longer than for the face.

Will the Vi Peel tighten neck skin?
The skin on the neck responds well. The Vi Peel has proven to help improve texture and quality with gradual softening of the lines and some tightening effects. The peeling process can be more gradual and results are different from the face.

Are teenage acne sufferers too young for the Vi Peel and would it help their acne?
The Vi peel was originally formulated for teen acne sufferers. The peel is excellent for both adult and adolescent acne. Combined with a daily skin regimen, almost all acne cases can be successfully managed. Please note that treating acne scars will require a series of peels.

Does the Vi Peel remove precancerous cells?
Yes, the Vi Peel helps to remove precancerous cells. Of course, those with a history of skin cancer should always see their dermatologist on a regular basis. The VI Peel is not designed to treat cancer but offers a comprehensive way to help prevent it.

Light Chemical Peel Aftercare Instructions

Medium Depth Peel Aftercare Instructions


Return to Cosmetic Procedures
2809 N. Sepulveda Blvd
Suite A
Manhattan Beach
CA 90266
P:(310) 802-8180
F:(310) 802-8150

About Us | Our Staff | Medical Services | Cosmetic Procedures | Specials | Skincare Products
Skin Surgery | Forms | Patient Portal | Office Policies | Contact Us | Location and Hours