The cleanse-moisturise-exfoliate ritual is the holy trinity of skincare. The self-care routine is the foundation of all beauty treatments. Its three steps are equally important, but doing them well is not equally simple.

At-home cleansing and moisturising will work even without skilled help. Exfoliation is not the same. Professional treatments make a difference here, and HydraFacial is one of the best currently available.

What is HydraFacial?

HydraFacial is a patented name for a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment. Technically speaking, it’s a facial that combines all the benefits of microdermabrasion, hydration, and cleansing.

The main difference between HydraFacial and microdermabrasion is the concurrent use of hydrating serums during the procedure.

Otherwise, the principle is the same as a regular facial. However, it requires a particular machine (HydraFacial MD). According to many patients and aestheticians, other vital differences are dramatically better anti-ageing effects and the "wow effect" with instantly brighter and firmer skin.

How does HydraFacial work?

A trained therapist uses the HydraFacial machine to perform the three-step HydraFacial treatment.

1. Cleansing – using a wand with a vortex-like tip, the therapist cleanses your skin and applies a peeling agent.
2. Exfoliation – with a suction extension, the therapist removes dirt, debris and dead cells from your skin.
3. Hydration - a pen-like extension infuses an antioxidant-rich hydrating serum into the skin.

What are the benefits of HydraFacial?

HydraFacial does what every facial does best it unlocks the skin's regenerative potential. That results in a better skin texture, tone, and overall appearance.

Deep cleansing of the pores and exfoliation, without aggressive damage to the skin and in combination with a hydrating serum, is what HydraFacial is all about. The comprehensive approach also helps to remove blackheads, improve acne, and decrease common signs of ageing, such as:

• Enlarged pores,
• Fine lines, and
• Hyperpigmentation

HydraFacial does not cause discomfort or any post-procedure complications. Still, it is wise to notify your therapist if you have allergies, auto-immune disorders (eczema, psoriasis, etc.), or sensitive skin.

Aftercare following HydraFacial

There is no disruption to normal daily activities post-treatment, as no recovery is necessary. HydraFacial is not as invasive as some other peeling techniques, so there is no need for any special care. Just continue with a regular skin care regimen, apply sun protection, and avoid exfoliation for a few days. You can repeat the HydraFacial treatment after two to four weeks.

References:

1. Freedman BM. Hydradermabrasion: an innovative modality for non-ablative facial rejuvenation. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2008; 7(4):275-280. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2165.2008.00406.x
2. Nikalji N, Godse K, Sakhiya J, Patil S, Nadkarni N. Complications of medium depth and deep chemical peels. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2012 Oct; 5(4):254-60. Doi: 10.4103/0974-2077.104913. PMID: 23378707; PMCID: PMC3560165.