From New York City to London, Los Angeles to Sydney, and Paris to Singapore, HydraFacials have taken the world of beauty by storm. These popular facial cosmetic procedures are gentle, non-invasive, and require no downtime, but give AMAZING results and can address a variety of skin concerns. It's no wonder then that so many people are choosing HydraFacial as part of their skincare routine. Keep reading to learn everything there is to know about this cutting edge skin health procedure. Learn how HydraFacial can give you "the best skin of your life."
What is a HydraFacial treatment?
A HydraFacial is a branded skincare procedure that can dramatically improve the appearance of your skin. It is a 3-step, 30-minute process that uses patented hydra-dermabrasion technology to cleanse, peel, extract, hydrate, and protect your skin. The combination of microdermabrasion and suction exfoliation along with the use of hydrating and nourishing serums is highly effective in treating a variety of common skin concerns such as wrinkles, dryness, uneven skin tone, rough skin texture, brown spots, large pores, and acne.
HydraFacial is safe for all types of skin. It is performed as an outpatient procedure at a medical spa or dermatology office. The procedure is performed with a special device that has a vortex swirling action. HydraFacial treatments can be combined with other cosmetic procedures such as LED light therapy or dermal fillers.
How does HydraFacial treatment work?
A HydraFacial is performed by a licensed aesthetician or dermatologist. There are 3 steps to the procedure:
In the first step, the provider uses a wand-like attachment on the skin to clear away dirt, oil, and other impurities with a vortex action. The device also peels and exfoliates to reveal healthy, glowing skin underneath.
The second step in the HydraFacial treatment consists of using a vacuum attachment to extract the debris from the skin surface.
Lastly, the provider uses a pen-like device to deliver hydrating serums that contain antioxidants to nourish and protect the skin.
A HydraFacial is, therefore, 3 facial treatments rolled into one quick session.
Is HydraFacial painful?
The HydraFacial device can look intimidating. It is a big machine with various attachments that spin and whirl and produce suction. The machine's vortex technology is what works the magic. It acts like a mini vacuum cleaner for the skin, gently sucking up impurities without discomfort. Many patients say a HydraFacial feels like a light massage. However, some people find the exfoliation part of the treatment slightly uncomfortable due to the sandpapering action (it's been compared to a cat licking your face, so it's not excruciating pain).
What are the benefits of HydraFacial?
A HydraFacial is gentle yet effective. HydraFacial results are often comparable to many harsher facial treatments that have long recovery times. People love HydraFacial treatments because they are suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone, sensitive, dry, and oily skin. The advanced technology in HydraFacials means the treatment is precisely controlled and the results are consistently good.
What's more, the results of this non-invasive beauty treatment are immediate. You can see improvement in your skin after just one treatment. In fact, because there is no downtime and the results are so noticeable, HydraFacial is popular before big events like weddings to give the face a radiant, healthy glow.
Here are some benefits of HydraFacial for specific skin conditions:
Acne
There is no specific evidence supporting the benefits of HydraFacial for acne. However, because the procedure removes impurities from the skin such as dead skin cells, oil, and dirt that can clog pores, it can treat acne. The collagen building action of a HydraFacial can be beneficial in fading acne scars.
Blackheads
Blackheads form when dead skin cells collect on the skin surface. They are tiny, non-inflammatory skin lesions that also benefit from the exfoliation and extraction in HydraFacial procedures.
Rosacea
It can be difficult to find cosmetic treatments that are safe for people with rosacea. Studies have shown that techniques employed during HydraFacial benefit papulopustular rosacea.
Aging skin
A study showed that HydraFacial procedures can reduce the visible signs of skin aging more than the use of serum alone. The effects of HydraFacial that help skin look more youthful include correcting hyperpigmentation, decreasing pore size, decreasing fine lines, and increasing hydration.
Do you need any special skincare after HydraFacial?
Unlike traditional cosmetic treatments like dermabrasion and chemical peels, you do not need any downtime or special skin care after a HydraFacial session. You can resume all normal activities right away. There is no redness or peeling after HydraFacial, but it is a good idea to avoid exfoliating products for the first couple of days.
Is a HydraFacial better than a regular facial?
A regular spa facial involves cleansing and moisturizing. A HydraFacial uses a patented device to clean the skin more deeply and exfoliate it with a vacuum action, followed by delivery of serums that are customized to your skin type. The results from a HydraFacial are therefore far more dramatic than a regular facial.
Is it safe for all skin types?
HydraFacials are far less invasive than many common cosmetic treatments like chemical peels and laser skin resurfacing. A HydraFacial can be performed on all skin types including sensitive skin. There is no redness or irritation after the treatment. The treatment is completely non-invasive and is a great choice for adults as well as teenagers with problem skin. Also, because HydraFacial treatment can be personalized, your skin care professional can use it to treat your specific skin concerns.
How long do HydraFacial results last?
HydraFacial results vary from person to person. In general, the results last for 4-6 weeks. You can schedule a monthly HydraFacial session to boost skin quality and maintain your skin long term.
How often should you get a HydraFacial?
The frequency of your HydraFacial treatments will depend on your skin type and skin condition. Your aesthetician or dermatologist will help you figure out the number of sessions that will help you accomplish your goals. If you haven't been very good with skin care in the past, it may help to start with 2-4 HydraFacial sessions a month. Once you’ve achieved some improvement in your skin, you can settle for a monthly appointment.
How many HydraFacial sessions do I need to see results?
Many patients see noticeable improvement in their skin after just one HydraFacial session. If you are good about keeping your HydraFacial appointments, you will maintain the improvement over time.
What are the side effects? Do you need any precautions with HydraFacial?
HydraFacial is a gentle skin treatment that is free of side effects and complications. It does not cause any pain (only a light pressure sensation). There is no redness and no downtime afterward. However, HydraFacial is not recommended if you have an active skin infection or rosacea flare. It is a good idea to avoid prescription creams and exfoliating skincare products in the days leading up to your HydraFacial appointment to avoid any skin irritation.
HydraFacial vs other cosmetic treatments
HydraFacial vs. microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a procedure in which tiny crystals are used to sandpaper the skin surface. It is used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, brown spots, large pores, and acne scars. However, microdermabrasion is a one-dimensional approach compared to HydraFacial which includes cleansing, exfoliating, and application of hydrating serum.
HydraFacial vs. dermalinfusion
Dermalinfusion is a cosmetic treatment that is similar to HydraFacial, in which the skin is cleansed, exfoliated, and serums are applied. However, dermalinfusion is a more aggressive treatment that can lead to some redness and skin irritation. HydraFacial does not cause any side effects and can be done before big events.
HydraFacial vs. radiofrequency therapy
RF (radiofrequency) skin treatments use heat energy to promote collagen production and cell turnover in the skin to make it tighter and smoother and fade acne scars. RF cosmetic treatments do not include exfoliation, however. Also, they can cause some residual redness after treatment. HydraFacial includes exfoliation and can address signs of aging without causing side effects.
Is HydraFacial safe during pregnancy?
Cosmetic treatments are generally not recommended while pregnant. This is because while they are generally safe, some of the ingredients used in the treatments have not been studied and proven safe during pregnancy. For example, salicylic acid, which is used during a HydraFacial has not been tested in pregnant women. If you want to get HydraFacials while you're pregnant, check with your obstetrician first.
Can a HydraFacial cause an acne breakout?
HydraFacial treatment includes deep cleansing and exfoliation of the skin to remove impurities like dead skin cells and excess oil that can lead to acne breakouts. The treatment can therefore help to clear acne by purging the skin of dirt and debris. However, HydraFacial is not recommended in people with active inflammatory acne or breakouts. You should let your aesthetic provider know if certain ingredients cause you to breakout (the HydraFacial treatment can be customized to exclude these ingredients). If you experience a breakout after your HydraFacial, report back to your provider so they can tweak the procedure the next time around.
How much does it cost to get a HydraFacial?
The cost of HydraFacial is more than a regular spa facial, but the results are more dramatic. HydraFacial cost ranges from $175 to $300. Add-on boosters and serums are usually extra. The exact price will also depend on where you live.
Is a HydraFacial worth the price?
If you take into consideration HydraFacial results, the treatments are well worth the price. Also, if you're getting monthly spa facials and going in for additional chemical peels or microdermabrasion, remember HydraFacial incorporates all three and is therefore less expensive overall.
Where can I get a HydraFacial?
HydraFacial is a patented skin treatment that is only available in registered medical spas and dermatology offices. The MeTime app makes it easy to find HydraFacial providers in your area. You can chat with a dermatologist about which cosmetic treatments will best suit your specific skin concerns. You can send photos across, do a video consult, and even book an appointment when you're ready. What are you waiting for? Take the first step towards good skin health. Download the MeTime app today.