In the world of skincare treatments, new options come and go extremely quickly. But there’s one especially noteworthy option that remains a mainstay, popular among consumers, aestheticians, and dermatologists alike. We’re talking about the HydraFacial.
Make no mistake about it; this is nothing like your run-of-the-mill facial; rather, it’s a much more high-tech version, combining several different skincare techniques into one quick, effective, and totally customizable treatment that’s a good choice for pretty much anyone and everyone. The point is, if you’ve never had one, it’s absolutely worth considering. Ahead, we tapped top experts to explain why. Keep scrolling for everything you need to know about HydraFacials.
What Is a HydraFacial?
A HydraFacial is a brand-name treatment that uses patented hydra-dermabrasion technology. “A HydraFacial is a multi-step facial treatment that includes exfoliating, extracting, and then hydrating the skin,” explains Dr. Baum. At the core is the unique hydra-dermabrasion technology, a combo of hydration and microdermabrasion. With each treatment, a resurfacing wand boasting an exfoliating tip is used. Baum notes that it resurfaces the skin but also offers a gentle suction, pulling out dirt and impurities. The treatment finishes with the addition of any one of over 20+ boosters and serums, all of which are designed for specific skin concerns, including irregular tone, texture, signs of aging, etc.
The Benefits
- It gently yet effectively exfoliates the skin
- It can be customized based on your skin type and needs.
- There’s essentially no downtime.
- It is safe and effective for almost everyone.
The gentle-yet-effective exfoliation and deep cleansing you get with a HydraFacial leaves skin bright, hydrated, and glowing, according to Thornton. “Because it gets rid of dead cells, products you use after the fact can penetrate more effectively, and it also creates a nice smooth canvas for makeup,” Thornton adds.
Best of all? Because the downtime and potential side effects are almost non-existent, it’s a great choice to do the same day as a big event. Similarly, it’s one of those rare treatments where you will see immediate results; your skin will be glowing as soon as it’s over, Baum says.
How to Prepare
The only thing you need to do is stop using any potentially-irritating ingredients—that means retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids, and beta hydroxy acids—for three days prior, Thornton advises. This is simply because you don’t want your skin to be irritated or overly sensitized when going into the treatment. Baum says it’s also a good idea to avoid excessive sun exposure for the 72 hours prior, too, as it can also make your skin more sensitive.
Lastly, refrain from getting Botox injections two weeks before, as Baum says any facial can disrupt how your injections settle in. And while a HydraFacial can be customized with ingredients that are safe for pregnant and breast-feeding women, it’s always best to consult with your doctor ahead of time.
What to Expect
Cleansing and exfoliation come first; you’ll feel a cool liquid on your skin as the resurfacing wand is simultaneously moved across your skin, Thornton says. While it has an exfoliating tip, Baum says it shouldn’t hurt or feel scratchy. The liquid deposited is both water and an exfoliating solution comprised of alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids to further amp up the mechanical exfoliating benefits.
Next up is the extraction portion, which occurs via gentle suction. “This is also completely pain-free, and you’ll actually be able to see the impurities pulled out of your skin as they go into a ‘gunk’ canister,” Baum says.
The final step is the addition of a customized skin booster or serum; your provider will choose one before starting the treatment based on your skin concerns and goals. This will also be delivered and infused into the skin via the device. Overall, Thornton explains that the whole experience should take about 45 minutes and be very relaxing.
HydraFacial vs. Microdermabrasion
HydraFacials and microdermabrasion are popular facial treatments, but there are a few differentiators between the two. “Both remove dead skin cells from the top layer of the skin, but they do it via different mechanisms,” Thornton explains. “Microdermabrasion uses crystals and can be irritating to those with sensitive skin due to the abrasive nature. The HydraFacial uses water and suction to do a more thorough job with no irritation or downtime. It is safe for all skin types.”
Potential Side Effects
According to both experts, the side effects are minimal, if any. It is possible to experience a few blemishes after the extraction process, though this can happen after any extraction, and is not typical with a HydraFacial, Baum says. Thornton notes that you may also experience a little redness if you have especially sensitive skin, but this tends to be short-lived.
The Cost
This varies based on geographic location, your provider, and the booster(s) used, but Thornton cites an average of $200-$350. She notes that many places also offer extra add-ons—like LED treatment and lymphatic drainage massage—which will further increase the cost.
Aftercare
As with the pre-treatment protocol, instructions here are minimal. Keep your skincare routine minimal—use a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen (always!)—for a few days after, suggests Thornton. After that, you can resume your usual protocol.
The Final Takeaway
“HydraFacials are safe for all skin types and concerns, ages, and genders because they are so customizable,” Baum says. They offer effective exfoliation as well as other benefits and come with minimal downtime. Essentially, HydraFacials are as close to a universally safe bet as you can get in the world of skincare treatments.