HydraFacials: What They Are & Where To Try Them

What’s The Background?

“The HydraFacial is a medical-grade hydradermabrasion device that carries out a patented three-part regimen: cleansing, exfoliating then infusing skin with a range of serums and plumping peptides. The machine is equipped with something called ‘vortex technology’ – put simply, this can take things away and put things back into the skin simultaneously. As a treatment, it can be used on the face, but it also has special attachments that work on the back to treat acne, and even the scalp to encourage hair growth.” 

What Can You Expect During A HydraFacial Treatment?

“The treatment involves six steps to give the skin a complete overhaul. It starts by cleansing and peeling the skin, working to boost lymphatic drainage to give it that tauter appearance. Then, it’s time to extract and hydrate. A special attachment is used to unclog your pores and get rid of any trapped dirt. The next step is to hydrate skin with moisturisers that are tailored to you. The final step – which isn’t offered everywhere – is what’s called ‘fuse and protect’. It involves more personalised serums that target specific skin concerns such as acne, pigmentation or premature ageing. The treatment finishes with a dose of LED light.”

Do HydraFacials Work Well With Other Procedures?

“The HydraFacial is designed to work alongside other treatments. At my clinic – Regents Park Aesthetics – we often combine it with things like dermaplaning and micropeeling to continually improve the look of the skin and enhance its smoothness. Combining treatments is also a way to tackle skin concerns that need a 360° approach – like acne and wrinkles, for instance. The HydraFacial is becoming so popular, there’s even an offshoot called the HydraTite. This combines all the traditional benefits but with Lumecca and Forma – both forms of laser and IPL – to reduce the early signs of ageing.”

Can Anyone Try A HydraFacial?

“Everybody can try a HydraFacial. It does have particular benefits for those suffering with acne, however. This is because we can create a bespoke treatment protocol and packages to clear the skin effectively, but never abrasively.” 

How Often Can You Have Them Done?

“We advise clients to have a monthly HydraFacial, but in cases when individuals have specific skin concerns – like breakouts and dark spots – we can up the ante. This will usually mean a weekly treatment for six weeks. If your budget doesn’t allow for this, the strength of the skin peel can be adjusted, as can the serums used to address your skin concerns. That’s what’s so great about HydraFacials – they are completely customisable and easy to tweak.”

Any Downtime?

“Fortunately, there is no downtime. Your skin will be glowing immediately after the treatment. At most, you’ll experience some mild redness and tightness from the peel, but this isn’t uncomfortable. The only thing to note pre-facial is that they aren’t suitable for anyone pregnant or breastfeeding. It’s also worth letting your therapist know if you have any allergies – particularly to shellfish – as this may mean certain serums can’t be used.”

How Long Do Results Last? 

“The results are instantaneous and tend to last at least four to six weeks. If you can, it is worth booking back in to keep up the results. If you can’t afford regular sessions, even a one-off treatment will vastly improve the appearance of your complexion. It’s a great treatment to have before a special event.” 

On That Note, How Much Are HydraFacials Typically?

“If you are based in London, they will usually cost around £250 – as with most treatments, you shouldn’t trust anything too cheap. Some clinics also offer express options with lots of add-ons, so the prices may vary. It’s worth doing your research and always speaking to a professional before making a booking.”

Should Your Skincare Routine Change Afterwards?

“For best results, you should have a skincare review alongside each treatment – any good specialist will help you with this. It’s not to say you have to change your entire routine, but perhaps the way you’re using products and the quantity. I recommend you either bring your current skincare products with you, or make a note of what you use so the therapist can assess whether any changes need to be made. This way, you can get the full benefits from each facial, and potentially extend the time between each one.”

Finally, Can We Recap The Main Benefits?

“The benefits are endless, which is why it’s such a popular treatment. Specifically, though, HydraFacials are excellent for improving your skin’s quality and barrier function, and therefore its overall health and appearance. You will visibly see all the dirt and debris that has been removed from your skin – done regularly, you’ll notice acne, open pores and uneven texture are vastly improved.”

5 Places To Try A HydraFacial...

Regents Park Aesthetics; https://www.regentsparkaesthetics.co.uk/

Skn Clinics; https://www.sknclinics.co.uk/treatments-and-pricing/hydrafacial

Waterhouse Young; https://waterhouseyoung.com/

23MD Medical Skin Clinic; https://23md.co.uk/treatments/medical-technologies/hydrafacial-london

Nuriss Skin Clinic; https://nuriss.co.uk/