A complete pre-treatment guide for patients scheduled for a VI Peel at Elite Skin & Body Care in Houston. Learn which products and procedures to avoid, contraindications to discuss with your provider, and how to prepare your skin for maximum results.
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Preparing your skin properly before a VI Peel is the single most important step for getting the smoothest, brightest, most even-toned results. At Elite Skin & Body Care in Houston, TX, our estheticians provide every patient with a detailed pre-treatment protocol to ensure the peel is safe, comfortable, and highly effective. Please review the following instructions carefully before your appointment.
Interested in booking? Learn more about our VI Peel® (Medical Grade Peel) or explore our full Chemical Peels menu.
Wait at least 6 months post Accutane/isotretinoin use before your peel.
Two weeks before peel, patients should avoid: Electrolysis, Depilatory Creams, Waxing, Laser Hair Removal.
Two weeks before peel, patients should avoid these products and/or procedures: Retin-A®, Renova®, Differin®, Tazorac®; any products containing retinol, alpha-hydroxy acids or beta-hydroxy acids, or benzoyl peroxide; any exfoliating products or procedures that may be drying or irritating.
If you are prone to herpes simplex outbreaks, such as cold sores, consult your provider on ways to treat prior, or discuss whether the procedure is appropriate for you.
If your face or treatment area has irritated skin (sunburn, open wounds, warts, sores, excessively sensitive skin) the day preceding your appointment, please contact our office before your appointment.
Chemical peels are contraindicated in patients with a history of recent chemotherapy or radiation therapy; allergies to salicylates like aspirin, phenol or hydroquinone allergy; rashes, or skin reactions; vitiligo, autoimmune disease (rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, lupus, multiple sclerosis), liver condition, or any condition that may weaken their immune system; and pregnancy or breastfeeding.
The VI Peel is a medical-grade chemical peel that penetrates deeper layers of the skin to address acne, acne scarring, melasma, sun damage, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. Because it is a powerful treatment, pre-care directly affects both your comfort and your results. Skin that is already irritated, recently exfoliated with actives, or sensitized from recent hair removal is more likely to have an unpredictable reaction to the peel.
Following these guidelines consistently for the full two-week window gives your skin time to settle into a calm, stable baseline — the ideal canvas for a professional-strength peel.
Once you've had your treatment, post-care is equally important. Review our VI Peel Post-Treatment Care Guide for complete instructions on how to care for your skin during the peeling process.
If you have any questions or concerns before your treatment, please do not hesitate to contact us:
Call: 281-251-2225
Email: spa@eliteskinandbodycare.com
Visit: 10927 Louetta Rd, Suite 170, Houston, TX 77070
Ready to book? Request your VI Peel appointment and let our team design a treatment plan tailored to your skin goals.
How long before my VI Peel should I stop using retinol and AHA/BHA products?
Discontinue retinoids (Retin-A, Renova, Differin, Tazorac), retinol, alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, and benzoyl peroxide at least two weeks before your VI Peel appointment at Elite Skin & Body Care.
Who should NOT get a VI Peel?
Chemical peels are contraindicated during pregnancy or breastfeeding, recent chemotherapy or radiation, active autoimmune disease, aspirin or hydroquinone allergy, and within six months of Accutane use.
Can I wax or get laser hair removal before a VI Peel?
No. Avoid waxing, electrolysis, depilatory creams, and laser hair removal for at least two weeks before your peel, as these sensitize the skin and increase the risk of irritation.
What if I get cold sores — can I still have the peel?
Yes, but talk to your provider first. Patients prone to herpes simplex outbreaks can often be prescribed antiviral medication before the peel to prevent a flare during healing.