A VI Peel is a medical-grade chemical peel that resurfaces the top layers of skin, which makes it a strong choice for uneven tone, sun damage, and dullness. Microneedling creates tiny controlled channels that prompt your skin’s own collagen response, which makes it better suited to texture, fine lines, and certain types of acne scarring. Both start at $400 with Aurela Aesthetics, and a consultation with the nurse practitioner helps decide which fits your skin.
Here is a closer look at how each one works, what to expect afterward, and when it makes sense to do both.
How does a VI Peel work?
The VI Peel is a professional chemical peel that uses a blend of acids and skin-supporting ingredients to exfoliate the outer layers of the skin. After application, the skin typically begins to peel a few days later, revealing a brighter, more even surface underneath.
The treatment itself is quick and usually involves some tingling or warmth that fades. You go home with aftercare instructions and a post-peel kit to use over the following days. Learn more on our VI Peel page.
How does microneedling work?
Microneedling uses a device with very fine needles to create micro-channels in the skin. Your skin responds to these tiny controlled injuries by supporting its natural repair process, including collagen production. Over time and across a series of sessions, many people see smoother texture and a more refined look.
A numbing cream is commonly used first to keep you comfortable. Aurela offers standard microneedling for $400 or microneedling with the Rejuran Tone-Up booster for $750. Rejuran is a polynucleotide booster derived from salmon DNA, often chosen for a more radiant, hydrated look. See details on our microneedling page.
Which skin concerns does each treatment target?
There is overlap, but each treatment has its strengths:
- VI Peel is often chosen for: uneven skin tone, sun damage, the look of hyperpigmentation and melasma, dullness, active breakouts, and fine lines
- Microneedling is often chosen for: rough texture, enlarged-looking pores, fine lines, and the appearance of certain acne scars
If your main concern is color, such as brown spots or blotchiness, a peel is usually the first conversation. If your main concern is texture, such as scarring or crepey areas, microneedling often leads. Results vary, and your nurse practitioner will consider your skin type and history during a good-faith exam before recommending either.
How much downtime does each treatment have?
VI Peel: your skin usually looks normal or slightly flushed on the day of treatment. Peeling typically begins around day three, and most of it happens on days three and four. Most people go about their routine, though visible flaking may make you want a quiet week on the social calendar.
Microneedling: expect redness similar to a sunburn for a day or two, sometimes with mild swelling or dryness. Many clients feel comfortable back in light makeup after the first day or two, depending on their provider’s guidance.
With both treatments, diligent sunscreen and gentle skin care afterward are essential. Your nurse practitioner will give you specific aftercare instructions.
How much do VI Peel and microneedling cost?
- VI Peel: $400 for a single treatment
- VI Peel series of 3: $600
- Microneedling: $400
- Microneedling with Rejuran Tone-Up: $750
Every appointment comes to your home, office, or hotel anywhere in Orange County with no travel fee, whether you live in San Clemente or elsewhere in the county. Browse every city on our areas we serve page. A $100 travel surcharge applies in Los Angeles County or San Diego County.
Can you combine a VI Peel and microneedling?
Yes, but usually not on the same day. Many skin plans alternate the two over several months, letting the skin fully recover between appointments. A common approach is to start with the treatment that targets your biggest concern and build from there. Your nurse practitioner will recommend spacing based on how your skin responds.
If you want something with a little more glow from microneedling, consider the Korean Facial with PDRN microneedling, which pairs microneedling with polynucleotides.
What is the Tox Booster?
The Tox Booster combines Botox with a VI Peel in the same visit. Botox softens expression lines, while the peel works on tone and texture, so the two address different concerns at the same time. The price is your Botox total plus $200. Botox is $16 per unit with customized dosing.
It is a favorite before the holidays or a big event, as long as you schedule it with enough lead time for peeling to finish and Botox to settle, which typically takes about two weeks.
So which should you choose?
If you want brighter, more even skin and do not mind a few days of peeling, start with a VI Peel. If texture and scarring bother you most, microneedling is often the better fit. If you are unsure, that is exactly what the consultation is for. Courtney Rotz, FNP-BC, AGACNP-BC, will look at your skin, ask about your goals and history, and recommend a plan, with no pressure either way.
It also helps to think about timing. If you have a wedding, reunion, or vacation coming up, plan resurfacing treatments well in advance so your skin has time to peel, heal, and settle. A VI Peel series or a few spaced microneedling sessions often fit nicely into the months before a big date. Your nurse practitioner can map out a calendar that works backward from your event.
Ready to refresh your skin at home?
Refresh. Restore. Radiate, on your schedule. Book your appointment online or call Courtney at 949-649-8852 to check availability in your area.
Frequently asked questions
Is a VI Peel or microneedling better for acne scars?
Microneedling is often chosen for the appearance of textured acne scars, while a VI Peel is often chosen for discoloration left behind by breakouts. Your nurse practitioner will recommend the best approach after examining your skin.
How much does a VI Peel cost?
A single VI Peel is $400 with Aurela Aesthetics, and a series of three is $600. All Orange County appointments include no travel fee.
Can I do a VI Peel and microneedling on the same day?
These two treatments are generally spaced apart so your skin can fully recover between sessions. Your nurse practitioner will recommend timing based on your skin.
What is the downtime for microneedling?
Most people have redness similar to a mild sunburn for a day or two, sometimes with slight swelling or dryness. Results and recovery vary by person.
