A HydraFacial is a patented skin treatment available in medical spas and dermatology offices. It’s also sometimes called “hydradermabrasion” because it involves microdermabrasion-like exfoliation paired with hydrating serums.
Known for its three-step process, the HydraFacial works to deep-clean, exfoliate, and hydrate your skin. This professional procedure may help treat a variety of skin conditions, including acne, dryness, and wrinkles.
The noninvasive procedure is similar in principle to a regular facial you might get from a spa but is said to provide more dramatic results. This is achieved by a mechanized wand used on your skin to deeply clean and exfoliate while delivering serums customized to your skin type.
If you’re curious about whether a HydraFacial is worth the hype, read on to learn more about the potential benefits, the possible side effects, and how it compares to similar treatments.
A HydraFacial is a patented skin treatment available in medical spas and dermatology offices. It’s also sometimes called “hydradermabrasion” because it involves microdermabrasion-like exfoliation paired with hydrating serums.
Known for its three-step process, the HydraFacial works to deep-clean, exfoliate, and hydrate your skin. This professional procedure may help treat a variety of skin conditions, including acne, dryness, and wrinkles.
The noninvasive procedure is similar in principle to a regular facial you might get from a spa but is said to provide more dramatic results. This is achieved by a mechanized wand used on your skin to deeply clean and exfoliate while delivering serums customized to your skin type.
The HydraFacial is said to help improve overall skin texture, tone, and appearance. This is due to the deep exfoliation that cleans your pores, removing debris and allowing for better penetration of face serums tailored to your skin type.
HydraFacial for acne
Currently, there are no clinical studies highlighting the benefits of the HydraFacial for acne.
However, microdermabrasion techniques have long been considered effective for treating both acne and acne scars. This is likely due to the deep exfoliation that helps remove pore-clogging skin cells.
Dead skin cells also contribute to blackheads. This noninflammatory type of acne may benefit from the same exfoliating and extracting methods used in the HydraFacial, but more clinical studies need to be done to confirm these benefits directly.
It can be difficult to find cosmetic treatments safe enough for this sensitive skin condition. While more research is needed to prove the safety and effectiveness of the HydraFacial for rosacea, a 2006 study revealed that similar techniques may benefit papulopustular rosacea.
A small 2008 studyTrusted Source of 20 women found that those who received HydraFacial treatments had greater decreases in signs of skin aging compared with those who used serums alone. The effects included decreased pore size, less hyperpigmentation, and decreased fine lines.
A HydraFacial is performed by either a licensed aesthetician or a dermatologist. The procedure is completed in three parts:
A HydraFacial is sometimes followed by other skin care treatments, such as dermal fillers or light therapy. These are considered add-ons and are not included as part of the HydraFacial.
HydraFacial before and after
After a HydraFacial, you may notice smoother, more radiant skin, possibly with a more even skin tone. The results are said to be noticeable immediately, without any visible signs of irritation.
Each HydraFacial session takes less than an hour, and no downtime is required. Unlike with harsher procedures like chemical peels, you can resume your normal activities right away.
While you shouldn’t experience any redness or peeling after your session, it’s still best to avoid exfoliating treatments for the first couple of days after a HydraFacial.
The frequency of HydraFacial sessions depends on your skin type and your provider’s recommendations. Some websites recommend repeating the treatment every 4 weeks, while others encourage repeat sessions every 2 weeks.
An aesthetician or dermatologist can help you determine the right number of sessions based on your skin condition and goals.
