The VI Peel is a proprietary, provider-applied system that, depending on the version, may include TCA, salicylic acid, a retinoid, and vitamin C. Mild peeling usually starts two to three days after treatment and can last up to a week.

Most treatments are well tolerated. Depending on the procedure, we may use topical numbing, cooling, or other comfort measures to maximize your comfort. Your provider will review what to expect before your treatment.

Chemical Peels for Acne, Dark Spots, and Melasma

Q: Can peels treat areas besides the face?

Yes. We treat the neck, back, arms, hands, and legs, often for sun damage and uneven tone. For melasma, peels support your topical therapy rather than replace it, and deeper acne scars often need a combined plan.

Q: Are at-home treatments the same as in-office procedures?

No. In-office treatments use medical-grade devices and professional-strength products that are selected and performed under physician supervision. While some at-home products can complement your skincare routine, they do not provide the same results as professionally performed treatments and may carry risks if used incorrectly.

Dealing with acne, dark spots, melasma, or superficial scarring? We plan your peel around your skin and tone at our South Loop practice, with the agent and depth matched to your concern.

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Appointment: 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the peel and area
Downtime: 1 to 10 days
Most often used for: acne, dark spots, melasma, superficial scarring
Sessions: a series of 3 to 6, typically 4 to 6 weeks apart
Payment: self-pay cosmetic service, with financing available

What it treats

Chemical peels are used for acne and acne-prone skin, dark spots and uneven tone, and melasma.

We’ll customize the peel type and schedule around your goals and your timeline.

Before & After

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Results vary. Photos do not guarantee outcomes.

Ready to talk about your skin?

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Safety Considerations

Before treatment — We evaluate your skin type, skin tone, and treatment goals to select the most appropriate treatment, device, and depth. Our procedures are performed as a series, with results developing gradually over weeks to months rather than after a single visit.

Recovery and aftercare — Temporary redness, sensitivity, swelling, or skin changes are common during healing. Recovery varies by treatment and depth. You’ll receive personalized aftercare instructions, including daily sun protection with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen as a must.

Skin tone safety — Patients with medium to deep skin tones have a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (temporary darkening or lightening after inflammation). We tailor treatment selection, device settings, and technique to help minimize this risk and provide safe, individualized care.

Who performs your treatment — Chemical peels, microneedling, laser treatments, HydraFacial, and laser hair removal are performed by our licensed aestheticians and directed by our dermatologists.

Preparing for your peel — Depending on your treatment plan, you may need to pause certain skincare products for several days before your peel. We will review your medical history and educate you on what is needed for the best outcomes.

Results vary by person, and nothing is guaranteed. Your provider reviews your medications and medical history before treating. We do not perform certain elective cosmetic treatments during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Aftercare is personalized to your skin and reviewed with you at your visit.

Questions about whether this fits you?

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How it works.

Before your visit.Book a consultation and share your skin concerns, goals, and relevant health history.
During your appointment.We evaluate your skin and recommend a treatment plan tailored to you.
After your appointment.We provide aftercare instructions and follow-up guidance.

We’ll schedule a follow-up to see how your skin is responding.

Am I a candidate?

We confirm candidacy at your consultation, not online. Everyone's skin, history, and goals are different, so the lists shown are a starting picture.

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Chemical peels may not be appropriate if you have an active skin infection, cold sores, open wounds, or sunburn in the treatment area, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have certain skin conditions that are not well controlled. Recent isotretinoin use, a history of abnormal scarring, or other medical considerations may require delaying treatment or modifying your treatment plan. Your provider will determine whether a chemical peel is appropriate based on your skin type, medical history, and treatment goals.

The full candidacy review happens at your consultation. There is no obligation to proceed.

Pricing and payment

Cosmetic treatments are self-pay. Pricing depends on the treatment area and plan. Your provider reviews options and gives an estimate at your consultation.

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Pricing is reviewed before any treatment begins. We accept all major cards.

Why Patients Choose Advanced Dermatology

01 Physician-led

Dermatologist-Led Care.

Every treatment performed or supervised by a board-certified dermatologist — Dr. Monica Rani, MD (Medical Director) and Dr. Stavonnie Patterson, MD — or Sydney Freedman, PA-C.

02 Skin of Color