Recovery
Results
Treatment Time
Aftercare
Treatment science score 
The science of the Vi Chemical Peel for melasma
- The Vi peel removes excess pigment & reduces future pigment production
- Results are seen in only one session
- Peeling only lasts 3 to 4 days
- The process is painless
- It compares favourably to more expensive, longer downtime peels like Cosmelan
- The Vi peel has less skin irritation & faster recovery compared to Cosmelan
The Vi Precision peel is one of our most popular peels for melasma. It is more cost effective than Cosmelan or Dermamelan with equal results but less skin irritation, & one third the recovery time.
What results can I expect from the Vi Precision Peel?
This is one of our favourite peels for melasma and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It provides rapid, consistent skin lightening with little to no downtime in one simple, painless session. Read more to understand what types of melasma responds best to peeling agents.
What types of pigment can be treated with the Vi Precision Peel?
We employ the Vi peel to treat-
- Melasma: superficial forms of melasma.
- Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation: due to burns, acne, insect bites
- Freckles: in all skin types
- Mild mixed sun damage: in all skin types
How does the Vi Precision Peel compare with Cosmelan peel?
Both are excellent peels, however the Cosmelan (& Dermamelan) peels are associated with a much longer downtime, often exceeding 14 days. Results with the Vi peel are comparable to Cosmelan/Dermamelan with 1/3 the costs.
Cosmelan & the more powerful Dermamelan are best employed for deeper pigmentation in patients with more sun damage, who can spare to take 2-3 weeks off work. Skin irritation following these peels are more, as compared to the Vi Precision peel system.
How does the Vi Chemical peel compare with pico lasers for melasma?
Peels have an edge over lasers when it comes to results as outcomes can be seen within days to weeks. Lasers have the edge over chemical peels when it comes to less downtime & risks. Lasers are also better at treating deeper pigment in comparison to peels.
Treatment |
Recovery |
Cost |
Efficacy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pico lasers | Nil | $$$ | >80-85% effective |
| Chemical peels | 5-14+ days | $$-$$$ | 60-70% effective |
What is the recovery like following the Vi Precision Peel?
Average downtime with mild peeling ranges from 3 to 4 days. Expect a slightly longer recovery if you have sensitive skin. Delay peeling starts from day 3 & persists for several days.
When will I see results?
Results can be seen at day 7, however it takes another 14 days for maximal results to be seen.
*Most melasma patients require 1-3 sessions. The exact number of sessions depends on the level & intensity of pigmentation, in addition to expectations & skin type.
** Deep dermal melasma does not respond to superficial chemical peels.
*** Isolated deep pigment is best addressed with pico lasers.
What does it feel like & how long does it take to perform?
The Vi Precision Peel takes ½ hour to perform & is painless. The steps are-
- Cleansing to remove oil & grime.
- 2-layer Vi peel application in clinic.
- Wash off at home 5 hours later.
Can I wear make up after the peel?
Make up can be worn 5 hours post peel (after washing it off). A delayed peeling effect is seen at day 3 & typically lasts 4 days.
How many sessions are required for best results?
Between 1 to 3, depending on your skin type (tone or shade), intensity of your pigmentation as well as pigment depth.
If this peel is going to work, you will see results with one session. Pigment clearance ranges from 20% to 80%
What are the precautions post Vi Precision Peel?
Your clinician will guide you as to the timeframe of activity restrictions based upon your rate of peeling & your skin recovery. As a guide-
- No topicals (apart from the one’s provided) for 5-8 days post peel.
- No sun exposure for 14 to 28 days post peel.
- Limited water activities (chlorine irritates skin) & exercise for 6-9 days post peel.
*You can exercise post peel however avoid heavy sweating, especially during the peeling phase of days 3 to 7.
Can all skin types be treated with this chemical peel?
The Vi Precision Peel is highly effective in all skin type, ranging from fair to very dark skin.
What is the cost of the Vi Precision Plus peel?
We charge $850 for one session. Most melasma patients require 1-3 sessions for optimal results. Typically, the Vi Peel is half the price of the Cosmelan or Dermamelan with equal or near equal results.
Our Gallery of Results
Will the peel remove all types of melasma?
Peels are awesome for epidermal & mixed melasma (most types of melasma are mixed). Careful microscopic examination can determine the level of pigment. By understanding the level of pigmentation, our clinicians can guide you as to the best way to remove pigment.
Deep dermal melasma will not improve with chemical peels. This form of melasma requires a special technique of removal including the use of the ‘melanin shuttle’ & repair of the basement membrane of skin.
Retinoids are useful in some, but not all cases of melasma & pigmentation
.
👉Concept: though they are commonly prescribed in many combinations (eg. Triluma, Kligman’s, modified Kligman’s, stand alone ranging from retinol to retinoic acid), the rate limiting factor is skin irritation. Potentially this means less of what really matters- use of other more useful pigment correctors
.
☄️👌🏻Selective & gradual introduction of retinoids: Your clinician will discuss the timing of retinoids, in addition to the class & concentration, based upon your skin’s irritant threshold & background photodamage, taking into account co-prescription of other ‘skincare actives’
.
🎬Action: Brisbane patients, book a consultation with Alison @cutis_dermatology Sydney, few spots available next month, link in the bio.🙏🏼
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #melasma #dermatologistsydney #retinol #retinoids #retinolskincare #skincare #skincaretips #pigmentationtips #drdavinlim #davinlim #triluma
Retinoids are useful in some, but not all cases of melasma & pigmentation
.
👉Concept: though they are commonly prescribed in many combinations (eg. Triluma, Kligman’s, modified Kligman’s, stand alone ranging from retinol to retinoic acid), the rate limiting factor is skin irritation. Potentially this means less of what really matters- use of other more useful pigment correctors
.
☄️👌🏻Selective & gradual introduction of retinoids: Your clinician will discuss the timing of retinoids, in addition to the class & concentration, based upon your skin’s irritant threshold & background photodamage, taking into account co-prescription of other ‘skincare actives’
.
🎬Action: Brisbane patients, book a consultation with Alison @cutis_dermatology Sydney, few spots available next month, link in the bio.🙏🏼
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #melasma #dermatologistsydney #retinol #retinoids #retinolskincare #skincare #skincaretips #pigmentationtips #drdavinlim #davinlim #triluma
Your clinician will guide you through your specific protocol & pigment corrector. This only applies to potentially irritating agents, it is not a blanket guide for all topicals/pigment correctors
.
Still sensitive, even if short contact?
.
1️⃣Use half the amount (dilute in moisturizer)
.
2️⃣ moisturiser before & after
.
3️⃣Titrate use, ie. skip a day….or three
.
4️⃣Test spot for allergy (very rare, skin irritation more common). Use a tiny amount, apply to the inner arm, photograph 📸the reaction taking note of the time it takes to develop irritation. Show this to your treating clinician to interpret & they will guide you. Irritation is different from allergic reactions💯
.
👉🙏🏼Addition of topicals will be guided by your treating clinician, based upon your skin sensitivity, current topical use & treatment (peels vs lasers). Timing is important
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #melasma #dermatologistsydney
Your clinician will guide you through your specific protocol & pigment corrector. This only applies to potentially irritating agents, it is not a blanket guide for all topicals/pigment correctors
.
Still sensitive, even if short contact?
.
1️⃣Use half the amount (dilute in moisturizer)
.
2️⃣ moisturiser before & after
.
3️⃣Titrate use, ie. skip a day….or three
.
4️⃣Test spot for allergy (very rare, skin irritation more common). Use a tiny amount, apply to the inner arm, photograph 📸the reaction taking note of the time it takes to develop irritation. Show this to your treating clinician to interpret & they will guide you. Irritation is different from allergic reactions💯
.
👉🙏🏼Addition of topicals will be guided by your treating clinician, based upon your skin sensitivity, current topical use & treatment (peels vs lasers). Timing is important
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #melasma #dermatologistsydney
Dr Vee Mang is an Australian trained physician with extensive experience in skin, having worked in the field of dermatology. She’s a cosmetic physician who works with Dr Van Park & Dr Davin Lim in Woollahra, Sydney
.
👉Her interests: Pigmentation, neurotoxin, acne management, anti-aging
.
📖Bookings: Open for consultation, send your expression of interest at our website, melasmaclinic.com.au Yes, an expression of interest is required for the Sydney clinic.
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #melasma
Dr Vee Mang is an Australian trained physician with extensive experience in skin, having worked in the field of dermatology. She’s a cosmetic physician who works with Dr Van Park & Dr Davin Lim in Woollahra, Sydney
.
👉Her interests: Pigmentation, neurotoxin, acne management, anti-aging
.
📖Bookings: Open for consultation, send your expression of interest at our website, melasmaclinic.com.au Yes, an expression of interest is required for the Sydney clinic.
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #melasma
Dr Van Park is the co-founder of The Melasma Clinic. She’s a key opinion leader in the field of aesthetic injectables with her innovative & novel injection techniques with neuromodulators & soft tissue injectables
.
👉Rumor has it that Davin Lim fixed her melasma & hence why she founded this clinic.
.
📖Bookings: She’s closed her books, but occasional consults may arise
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #drvanpark #dvp #clinicdvp #cosmeticphysician
Dr Van Park is the co-founder of The Melasma Clinic. She’s a key opinion leader in the field of aesthetic injectables with her innovative & novel injection techniques with neuromodulators & soft tissue injectables
.
👉Rumor has it that Davin Lim fixed her melasma & hence why she founded this clinic.
.
📖Bookings: She’s closed her books, but occasional consults may arise
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #drvanpark #dvp #clinicdvp #cosmeticphysician
Davin Lim is a technician & co-founder. He comes up with the diagnosis, management plan & settings, nothing more. He fixed Van’s melasma & the rest is history☄️
.
👉In store: working on AI for ‘virtual Davin’, namely programmed AI bot for Q and A, coupled with AI video & virtual voice. Bot Q & A will be released in the next few weeks, virtual video & voice within 6 months (hopefully)
.
📖Bookings: handful of appointments available in Sydney every month, expression of interest via melasmaclinic.com.au
.
🏡The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#davinlim #drdavinlim #themelasmaclinic #dermatologistsydney #dermatologyclinicsydney
Davin Lim is a technician & co-founder. He comes up with the diagnosis, management plan & settings, nothing more. He fixed Van’s melasma & the rest is history☄️
.
👉In store: working on AI for ‘virtual Davin’, namely programmed AI bot for Q and A, coupled with AI video & virtual voice. Bot Q & A will be released in the next few weeks, virtual video & voice within 6 months (hopefully)
.
📖Bookings: handful of appointments available in Sydney every month, expression of interest via melasmaclinic.com.au
.
🏡The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#davinlim #drdavinlim #themelasmaclinic #dermatologistsydney #dermatologyclinicsydney
Hori is a common cause of pigmentation in Asian females
.
🔫Treatments: straightforward, it is only a matter of persistence & correct end points. 4-8 sessions. We can get the job done with older tech, but hypo & hyper pigmentation rates are slightly higher compared to pico. 1064 for true dermal Hori, 755 for the recently described mixed Hori
.
👍🏻Outlook: good. They rarely recur, remission expected in most, unlike melasma. The caveat is that melasma + Hori are commonly seen together
.
🎬Action: Consult our clinicians @the_melasma_clinic in Brisbane or Sydney. For Sydney appointments please fill out an expression of interest form on our website, melasmaclinic.com.au Brisbane patients, book an appointment with Alison @cutis_dermatology 💯
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#hori #ethnicskin #pigmentationtreatment #skinlightening #drdavinlim #davinlim #dermatologistsydney #picoway #picosure
Hori is a common cause of pigmentation in Asian females
.
🔫Treatments: straightforward, it is only a matter of persistence & correct end points. 4-8 sessions. We can get the job done with older tech, but hypo & hyper pigmentation rates are slightly higher compared to pico. 1064 for true dermal Hori, 755 for the recently described mixed Hori
.
👍🏻Outlook: good. They rarely recur, remission expected in most, unlike melasma. The caveat is that melasma + Hori are commonly seen together
.
🎬Action: Consult our clinicians @the_melasma_clinic in Brisbane or Sydney. For Sydney appointments please fill out an expression of interest form on our website, melasmaclinic.com.au Brisbane patients, book an appointment with Alison @cutis_dermatology 💯
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#hori #ethnicskin #pigmentationtreatment #skinlightening #drdavinlim #davinlim #dermatologistsydney #picoway #picosure
IPL is awesome for non-melasma pigmentation but is often a cause of flare ups for melasma pigment. The reason is the excessive heat that is often associated with IPL. Exception to this rule is the use of exact filters in correct pulse widths with co-prescription of pigment inhibitors- medical therapy. It can be done, but the threshold for error is very thin💯
.
👉This patient: treated with old fashioned dermal toning with nano-lasers, Spectra by Lutronic, in addition to medical therapy
.
📆👉Timeline: 10 weeks. Pico lasers offer faster resolution, if performed correctly.
.
Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#drdavinlim #IPL #IPLtreatment #melasma #melasmacure #melasmasurvivor #melasmaskincare #themelasmaclinic #sydneydermatologist
IPL is awesome for non-melasma pigmentation but is often a cause of flare ups for melasma pigment. The reason is the excessive heat that is often associated with IPL. Exception to this rule is the use of exact filters in correct pulse widths with co-prescription of pigment inhibitors- medical therapy. It can be done, but the threshold for error is very thin💯
.
👉This patient: treated with old fashioned dermal toning with nano-lasers, Spectra by Lutronic, in addition to medical therapy
.
📆👉Timeline: 10 weeks. Pico lasers offer faster resolution, if performed correctly.
.
Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#drdavinlim #IPL #IPLtreatment #melasma #melasmacure #melasmasurvivor #melasmaskincare #themelasmaclinic #sydneydermatologist
Dermamelan & Cosmelan peels have arrived 💯
.
👉Novel peels: are a good option for primarily epidermal melasma and superficial pigmentation, albeit a downtime of 6-12 days
.
👌🏻Employ peels based upon diagnostic features of pigment and allowed recovery of the patient
.
🏡The Melasma Clinic Sydney-Brisbane 🇦🇺
#melasma #cosmelan2 #cosmelanmask #cosmelanpeel
Dermamelan & Cosmelan peels have arrived 💯
.
👉Novel peels: are a good option for primarily epidermal melasma and superficial pigmentation, albeit a downtime of 6-12 days
.
👌🏻Employ peels based upon diagnostic features of pigment and allowed recovery of the patient
.
🏡The Melasma Clinic Sydney-Brisbane 🇦🇺
#melasma #cosmelan2 #cosmelanmask #cosmelanpeel
Will melasma come back after chemical peels?
Relapse is not infrequent with any melasma treatment, including chemical peels. The aim of melasma management to remove as much pigment as possible, then place the patient in remission with rotational therapies.
Once melasma pigment is removed, our team then focuses on methods to improve your skin quality, resilience & treat any background photodamage. This extends your remission time.
The Melasma Clinic – masters of chemical peels
Our clinicians are experts in all types of chemical peels, having over 20 years of clinical experience. We prescribe precision peels that target different layers of skin, from superficial to deep, tailoring each peel to the patient’s pigment, skin tone, downtime & expectations.
Will the peel remove all types of melasma?
Peels are awesome for epidermal & mixed melasma (most types of melasma are mixed). Careful microscopic examination can determine the level of pigment. By understanding the level of pigmentation, our clinicians can guide you as to the best way to remove pigment.
Deep dermal melasma will not improve with chemical peels. This form of melasma requires a special technique of removal including the use of the ‘melanin shuttle’ & repair of the basement membrane of skin.
Will melasma come back after chemical peels?
Relapse is not infrequent with any melasma treatment, including chemical peels. The aim of melasma management to remove as much pigment as possible, then place the patient in remission with rotational therapies.
Once melasma pigment is removed, our team then focuses on methods to improve your skin quality, resilience & treat any background photodamage. This extends your remission time.
Can this peel be repeated?
Absolutely. Up to 3 peels can be performed within a 3-month period.
Can this peel be performed at home?
Much like the Cosmelan & Dermamelan peel series, the Vi Precision peel is an in-clinic treatment that takes only 20 minutes to perform.
It is performed by experts trained in the art & science of chemical peels as skin preparation prior to the peel is critical for best results.
What are the potential side effects of chemical peels?
Think of peels as bleach, much like how a hairdresser bleaches hair. The outcomes are highly reliant on the skill sets of the hairdresser whether you get an awesome result, or, to put it blatantly a mother of all F*#k ups.
With care & precision, the side effects of the Vi Precision Peels are uncommon. They include-
- Melasma rebound (worsening of pigment).
- Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Demarcation lines & stripes.
- Infection.
- Poor wound healing.
- Sensitised skin.
What are gentler peels to treat melasma?
We employ 3 other peel types at the clinic for melasma pigmentation that are gentler than Cosmelan, Dermamelan & the Vi Precision Peel. They include-
- AHA peels such as glycolic or lactic acids.
- Retinoic acid peels.
- Salicylic acid peels.
Gentle formulations are much less successful in treating pigment; however, downtime is less.
What is a more aggressive chemical peels used to treat melasma?
Cosmelan & Dermamelan peels are far more aggressive with recovery times ranging from 7 to 14 plus days. Their clearance rates are marginally better compared to the Vi Precision Peel; however, the recovery is 2-3 time longer.
Jessner TCA & phenol peels are medium to deep chemical peels. They are useful in treating sun damage, but less so in treating melasma & post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Downtime with these peels can exceed 12 to 14 days.
Do I need to prep my skin prior to the Vi Precision Plus chemical peel?
Unlike other peels such as Cosmelan & Dermamelan, prepping of your skin is not required however your sunscreen application technique should be perfect in order to get the best results.
A pre-treatment scrub is performed a few minutes before application of the peel to remove grime & oil. This is done by your treating clinician.
What are the contraindications to chemical peels?
Peels are awesome for some forms of melasma, albeit a variable recovery time depending on the peel formulation. Peels are not advised if you-
- Suffer from rosacea or sensitive skin.
- Suffer from eczema.
- Exhibit primarily dermal melasma.
- Do not have downtime that matches the peel formulation.
- Have a poor understanding of sun protection (save your money, buy some shoes instead).
What is the failure rate of chemical peels when dealing with melasma pigmentation?
Melasma failure rates vary, depending on the treatment modality, but importantly the type of melasma & patient’s compliance.
In our hands, peels have a failure rate of between 70% to 35%, depending on the formulation. Lactic, glycolic & retinoic acid peels have a dismal hit rate, whilst the results from Cosmelan, Dermamelan & Vi Precision Peels are much better- ranging from 60 to 70+%.
Clinicians at The Melasma Clinic will combine prescriptive pigment correctors with our chemical peels to amplify your melasma clearance & ensure long term outcomes. A skincare program is tailored for every patient.
Why are lasers preferred over chemical peels when it comes to treating melasma pigmentation?
In some (but not all) cases, lasers are preferred as they have the following advantages-
- No downtime
- Less risks (if correct settings are used)
- Higher melasma clearance rates
- Ability to address deeper pigment such as age warts, Hori & others.
- Better overall skin rejuvenation, especially in sun damaged patients.
Who performs this peel?
Chemical peels are conducted by our dermal therapist & cosmetic physician in Sydney & by our nurses in Brisbane.
Dr Davin Lim performs deeper chemical peels including Jessner TCA peels, as well as phenol peels. These peels are best for non-melasma pigmentation. They are conducted in an operating theatre under sedation.
Dr Davin Lim
645K subscribersHow to treat PIGMENTATION
If I can identify the cause of pigmentation, chances are I can treat it. This can only be achieved with careful real time examination…
More of our mostFrequently asked questions
Which clinics perform the Vi Precision Peel?
What key ingredients are in the Vi Precision Plus chemical peel?
Is it painful?
Does the Vi Peel reduce wrinkles?
A SummaryVi Precision Peel
Dr Davin Lim | Dermatologist
The Melasma Clinic, Brisbane | Sydney
The Vi Precision Peel is one of our favourite peels for melasma & hyperpigmentation. It combines key ingredients in optimal concentrations, striking the balance between propound and consistent clinical results & downtime. Additionally, it is more cost effective than other peels such as Dermamelan & Cosmelan.
Proprietary novel peels such as the Vi Precision peel & the Cosmelan range have largely replaced old fashioned medium to deep peeling agents such as Jessner TCA and phenol croton oil peels in the context of melasma pigmentation. These peels have variable downtime (short with Vi peels, very long with Dermamelan), with little to no pain during and after the process. Results are relatively predictable, however sit below laser treatment of pigmentation in most cases.
The inventors of the Vi Precision peel have given a lot of thought in the science of the ingredients, namely, to incorporate pigment inhibitors such as vitamin C, A & kojic acid, with exfoliators such as phenol & trichloroacetic acids. This translates to fast, predicable results, but importantly it addresses underlying causes of pigmentation, namely, to supress the melanocyte or pigment producing cell.
The decision to guide the patient as to lasers vs chemicals peels rests on several key factors –
- Depth of pigment. For deeper pigment drop out, for example dermal melanocytosis such as Hori, deep post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, regressed lesions, the pico laser is much better (& safer). Peels are only useful for superficial pigment, hence understanding the depth of pigment is critical for predictable results.
- Pigment type. Discrete & isolated lesions are treated with lasers, namely flat seborrheic warts, age spots, & sunspots. Superficial peels are best suited for more diffuse pigment, such as melasma & PIH.
- Skin sensitivities. Even though the Vi Precision peel is much less irritation that the Cosmelan system, it contains powerful ingredients such as hydroquinone, Kojic acid, retinoic & ascorbic acids. For patients that suffer eczema, rosacea or simply sensitive skin, lasers offer a much better solution.
- Downtime. With our melasma laser settings, downtime following laser is zero, as compared to variable periods of recovery that differs depending on the peel.
- Rebound & side effects. Employed in the correct settings, complications such as rebound pigment, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation & demarcation are rarely seen with lasers & more common with chemical peels.
Thought the goalposts of treating melasma & other forms of pigmentation have shifted to the realm of technologically advanced picosecond lasers, chemical peels, when employed in the correct clinical context, can give outstanding results with only one treatment session.
