Although hydrafacials and traditional facials have a lot in common, they’re not the same thing. Both techniques are tailored to your specific skin type and needs, however, the way each procedure is approached is different. So when it comes to traditional facial vs hydrafacial, what should you expect?
Comparing hydrafacial vs regular facial
First things first, with a traditional facial, you are bound to experience a few uncomfortable moments during the procedure. Extractions, when the technician goes a bit deeper to clean your pores, are typically the least pleasant part. Regular facials are useful for long-term procedures but do have the possibility to cause redness and/or skin eruptions the day after.
HydraFacials, in comparison, can feel more like a light massage to the face, sounds enjoyable huh? This treatment does not involve the same extraction process that takes place during traditional facials. However, HydraFacials can still help with acne problems and enhance your skin’s overall tone, even without the extractions! Because this treatment does not cause irritation or inflammation, you can go out immediately after the treatment.
What occurs during a hydraFacial?
Although the technique is different for HydraFacials, you’ll receive the same benefits that you would during a regular facial. HydraFacials employ a three-step technique during a hydradermabrasion treatment. The steps include cleansing, exfoliating, and infusing your skin with a serum selected specifically for your skin type. So you know the treatment you’re receiving is just for you!
Your treatment will be chosen based on your skin type. So naturally, it will vary from person to person. Your technician will conduct a skin test to help evaluate your skin’s overall condition, identify its sensitivity, and ultimately choose your magical serum mixture!
You will most likely notice some similarities between a HydraFacial procedure and facials you’ve had in the past. The procedure will start by having your skin cleansed and exfoliated to help open your pores. After you get a light acid peel, which dissolves damaged and dead cells, your technician will use a vacuum tool called an extraction nozzle which will get rid of any dirt, oil, and other ‘gunk’ that might be clogging your pores.
Lastly, your technician will begin the infusion of serum with the ‘vortex infusion device’. Although this may sound like some crazy ritual ceremony, we assure you it’s not! Your technician will apply your skin’s unique serum with the device. The serum will help resolve your skin’s specific issues as well as increase its elasticity and hydration overall! Sounds like a win to us.
This treatment typically takes 30–45 minutes to complete depending on your particular treatment. It’s so quick, you can knock it out over your lunch hour easily.
What occurs after a hydraFacial
If you’ve got a traditional facial in the past, you might be hesitant about the HydraFacial and expect the same after-effects. One of our favourite parts about this treatment is that it’s completely non-invasive! Because of this, most individuals can return to normal life immediately.
We will note that some individuals may experience a tight feeling or reddish tone on their skin, but those symptoms should go away within a few hours. If your skin is extremely sensitive, you may experience swelling near your eyes and redness that can last for more than a day.
So, although it’s non-invasive, if you have experienced redness and swelling after a traditional facial, you may want to schedule your first treatment when you have a clear schedule the next day. This will give you the chance to see how your skin responds to this specific procedure and will let you know when the best time to schedule any future appointments would be.
The HydraFacial has become incredibly popular quite quickly due partially to the results usually being instant! You’ll have smoother, fresher skin and a healthy radiance just days after you receive your treatment, just like regular facials.
HydraFacials, like regular facials, will give you the best results if you continue with regularly scheduled treatments. For both techniques, you can have treatments about once a month to keep your skin fresh and healthy looking. The more consistent you are with treatments, the more effective the results you will experience, and the more revitalised your skin will stay.
Whether you stick to the tried and true regular facials or wish to try something new with the HydraFacial, you’ll likely receive the same benefits. Give the specialists at Platinum Sculpt a call to discuss any questions you may have and to schedule a session to get your skin back in business.
Alicia Saville did her degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. She is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
