The HydraFacial: What Is It and How Does It Function?

Everyone craves skin that is soft, radiant, and youthful. Some claim that a facial is becoming more common as an alternative to expensive multi-step skincare routines that include oils, creams, essences, and serums.

According to its proponents, HydraFacial is more than just a spa treatment. It is offered in over 80 countries, including the United States, and the website claims that a HydraFacial is performed every 15 seconds.

How Does a HydraFacial Work?

Akram compares the HydraFacial to a procedure called microdermabrasion. As described by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, microdermabrasion involves using moderately abrasive equipment to gently sand away the skin's thicker, uneven outer layer.

It's not quite microdermabrasion, but proponents insist it's a significant improvement. Akram explains the [Hydrafacial treatment] gadget. She explains that after the skin has been exfoliated, serums are injected.

According to HydraFacial, there are three stages to the therapy. The entire procedure takes as little as 30 minutes, and there is no "downtime" (a term commonly used in dermatology to describe the time necessary for recovery).

There are three stages to a HydraFacial, and they are as follows:

Cleanse and Peel

Exfoliation is the resurfacing process of removing the top layer of dead skin from one's body. According to Dr. Crawford, long-term use has been proven to increase collagen synthesis, make skin look brighter, and reduce the appearance of pores, as well as other benefits. These procedures are performed within the Hydrafacial treatment itself by its eponymous tip. This "creates a fluid vortex over the skin that dislodges contaminants and dead skin cells."

Extract and Hydrate

The point removes buildup from pores and applies moisturizers topically all at once.

Infuse and Protect

When your treatment is complete, you will receive boosters as serums. These are designed to help you achieve your specific skin care objectives, be they the elimination of hyperpigmentation, the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, the revitalization of dull skin, or the minimization of enlarged pores. It's a huge plus that these "boost" serums make the treatment wholly individualized.

The Geno Super-Facial is another option; it's a three-step facial that includes exfoliation and active topicals. DiamondGlowlin Dermafusion is a three-step facial that claims to exfoliate, extract, and infuse for glowing, regenerated skin. Each has its own patented technique. Inquire about the options available to you and your dermatologist's or aesthetician's opinions.

Is it safe for all skin types?

HydraFacials can be performed on most skin types, even susceptible complexions. However, those experiencing a rash, sunburn, or rosacea flare-up should not get a Hydrafacial treatment. "You also should not do this if you have open wounds or excoriated areas. The inflammatory risk in these places is high, to begin with, "Dr. Rossi says. Additionally, expecting mothers should always seek medical advice first. For her part, Frieling notes that the safety of some of HydraFacial's ingredients—like salicylic acid—has not been established during pregnancy.

Conclusion

A minimal recovery period is associated with HydraFacial, making it accessible to people of all skin types. On the contrary, your skin will appear better as you leave. Hydrafacial treatments are safe when performed by a licensed aesthetician or dermatologist. The 45-minute HydraFacial varies from $185 to $225, depending on the spa or clinic you visit.