VI Peel vs. Traditional Chemical Peels: Which Is Right for Your Skin?
Chemical peels have been a trusted way to brighten, smooth, and rejuvenate the skin for decades. As aesthetic medicine continues to evolve, so do the technologies behind skin resurfacing. One of the most innovative advancements is the VI Peel—a next-generation, medium-depth peel known for delivering transformative results with minimal downtime.
At Refined Women’s Wellness, we help patients choose the treatment that best aligns with their skin goals, lifestyle, and long-term wellness plan. This guide breaks down the differences between VI Peels and traditional chemical peels, so you can make a confident, informed decision about which option is right for your skin.
What Is a Traditional Chemical Peel?
Traditional chemical peels use varying strengths of acids—such as glycolic, salicylic, lactic, or Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)—to exfoliate the top layers of the skin. They remove damaged cells, stimulate collagen, and improve tone and texture.
Benefits of traditional chemical peels include:
Brighter, more even skin tone
Smoother texture
Reduction of fine lines
Improved hydration (with Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)-based peels)
Light acne prevention
Traditional peels may be light, medium, or deep, depending on their formulation and intended results.
While they are effective, traditional peels often require multiple sessions for noticeable improvement—especially when treating deeper concerns like acne scarring or hyperpigmentation.
What Makes the VI Peel Different?
The VI Peel is a powerful medium-depth chemical peel known for tackling concerns that traditional peels may struggle to address, especially in fewer treatments.
It combines a blend of TCA, salicylic acid, retinoic acid, phenol, and vitamin C—designed to brighten, smooth, and rejuvenate the skin from multiple angles.
The VI Peel helps improve:
Acne and acne scarring
Hyperpigmentation and melasma
Sun damage
Fine lines and wrinkles
Uneven tone and texture
Large pores
What sets the VI Peel apart is its ability to deliver significant results while remaining safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types.
Explore our full menu of facial and peel treatments.
VI Peel vs. Traditional Chemical Peels: A Side-by-Side Comparison
1. Depth of Treatment
Traditional Peels: Surface-level to medium-depth
VI Peel: Consistently medium-depth with deeper collagen stimulation
Verdict: If you need more than surface exfoliation (e.g., scars, pigment, deeper texture issues), VI Peel typically delivers stronger results.
2. Results
Traditional Peels: Gradual improvement over multiple sessions
VI Peel: Noticeable improvement after just one peel, with continued collagen remodeling for weeks
Verdict: VI Peel produces faster, more dramatic results.
3. Downtime
Traditional Peels: Mild flaking to heavier peeling depending on strength
VI Peel: Predictable peeling around days 3–5; full brightening by days 7–10
Verdict: Both involve downtime, but VI Peel’s peeling process is highly predictable and easy to plan around.
4. Suitability for Skin Types
Traditional Peels: Some formulas must be used cautiously on deeper skin tones
VI Peel: Designed for all skin tones and ethnicities
Learn how deeper collagen treatments compare.
Who Should Choose a VI Peel?
You may be an ideal candidate for a VI Peel if you want to address:
Acne or stubborn breakouts
Acne scarring or textural unevenness
Hyperpigmentation or melasma
Sun damage or dark spots
Fine lines or early aging
A dull or uneven complexion
A brighter glow with more dramatic results
VI Peels are especially effective for patients who haven’t seen results with traditional peels or who want a deeper, more comprehensive resurfacing solution.
See how VI Peel differs from other advanced resurfacing options.
Who Should Choose a Traditional Chemical Peel?
A traditional peel may be right for you if you’re looking for:
A lighter exfoliation
Minimal peeling
A quick refresh before an event
Monthly or seasonal maintenance
Gentle brightening or hydration
Traditional peels are excellent for ongoing care, while VI Peel is ideal for correcting deeper concerns.
Can You Combine VI Peel With Other Treatments?
Yes—and the results can be impressive. VI Peel pairs beautifully with:
Tox (Botox) → smooths lines while the peel brightens
Morpheus8 RF Microneedling → multiplies collagen stimulation
Read more about pairing resurfacing with collagen remodeling.Helix or CoolPeel → advanced resurfacing for texture + pigment
Compare Helix and Morpheus8 to understand how they complement peels.
Medical-grade skincare → Hydrinity, ZO, Noon for maintenance
Your results will depend on your unique skin needs, which is why every treatment plan at RWW is customized.
Which Peel Is Right for You?
Choosing the right peel isn’t about choosing the “strongest”—it’s about choosing the right treatment for your skin’s biology, your concerns, and your long-term skin plan.
At Refined Women’s Wellness, your provider will guide you through:
Your skin type
Your goals
Your timeline
Your past treatments
Your long-term wellness plan
From there, we create a personalized approach that enhances radiance, refines texture, and supports overall skin health.
A Personalized Approach to Skin Health
At RWW, every treatment is tailored with intention—and always guided by medical expertise. Whether you’re seeking a light refresh or a more transformative peel, our team creates a plan that supports your goals, your lifestyle, and long-term skin wellness.
Contact us to learn more or to schedule your personalized consultation.