Dull, dry and congested – if all three words aptly describe the current status of your complexion, it's time to acquaint yourself with a new one: Hydrafacial.
Though not exactly novel in the world of pro skincare treatments, Hydrafacials are a real skin remedy at this time of year, helping to revive an always tired-looking face, target fine lines, unclog pores and breathe fresh life into vitamin D-deficient skin. It's these reasons why they've become a mainstay among the likes of Beyoncé and Suki Waterhouse.
In even better news, these popular facials are often a more cost effective skin boost than some of the other luxe alternatives dominating treatment menus. Not only that, they feel like a self-care treat as opposed to the dreaded pricking, pummelling or discomfort synonymous with some salon facials. Plus, they require zero downtime and are tolerated by the majority of skin types – a win if you're on the sensitive side.
Discover even more of the skin-boosting benefits behind Hydrafacials, below...
What is a Hydrafacial?
'A Hydrafacial is essentially a facial treatment that's performed on a proprietary machine. The idea is that it can cleanse, exfoliate, extract and deliver serums to the skin,' says leading dermatologist, Dr. Emma Craythorne. The aim is to tackle a series of skin concerns in one go, removing purities and grime from the skin (aka, blackheads) and flooding the dermis with hydration.
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As for the treatment itself, it's a unique three-step process that cleanses, extracts and hydrates skin, says Dr Ana Mansouri, owner of Dr Ana The Skin Clinic. 'It's delivered using a hydradermabrasion technique, using patented Vortex-Fusion Technology to painlessly remove impurities from the skin's surface whilst simultaneously hydrating skin with nourishing boosters,' she explains.
If you've seen the before-and-afters, you'll know that there's a certain post-treatment glow that's become associated with Hydrafacials making it the perfect facial for anyone suffering from lacklustre skin, dryness or dehydration, and clogged pores.
What does a Hydrafacial do?
A Hydrafacial treatment typically lasts around one hour and helps deeply cleanse, exfoliate and extract impurities, treating the deeper layers of the dermis via a special and targetted treatment machine. 'The tip [of the machine] exfoliates by cleansing a fluid vortex and sucks at the skin and then the topical agents are delivered onto the skin,' explains Dr. Craythorne. 'When the skin is cleansed and exfoliated, it typically allows for more uniform delivery of the active serums to the skin and can be combined with cosmeceuticals or even medical actives,' she adds.
A Hydrafacial can also be completely tailored to your skin type and concerns. 'A booster can be added to your treatment with the goal of targetting fine lines, congested pores or improving hyperpigmentation,' adds Anna Harvey, Skin Specialist at Thérapie Clinic.
What are the benefits of having a Hydrafacial?
For starters, few treatments can help address a multitude of skin concerns at once. From acne to red and sensitised skin, pigmentation and fine lines and wrinkles, and dryness, a Hydrafacial comes with myriad benefits. Similarly, unlike the majority of glow-enhancing treatments, it requires zero downtime, isn't painful in the slightest and can be used even if you have sensitive skin.
Another major benefit is the versatility of the treatment. 'It can be completely personalised with a range of add-on "boosters", helping to target specific skin concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, uneven texture and fine lines and wrinkles,' agrees Dr. Mansouri.
For instance, you can add LED light therapy (red and blue light) as a booster at the end of your treatment. 'The red light reduces inflammation, promotes cell turnover and boosts your skin's collagen and elastin production to give you smooth, glowing skin,' says Harvey. 'Meanwhile, the blue light eliminates bacteria and purifies the skin, reducing congestion and acne symptoms.'
Are there any drawbacks to consider?
As Dr. Craythorne notes, there shouldn't be any drawbacks provided that the therapist delivering the treatment understands skin health and uses the right serums for your specific skin type. 'You do have to be careful with the active serums that are used. For example, you wouldn’t want serums used for acne on a patient with rosacea-prone skin,' she says.
If you are someone with sensitive skin, you'll also need your Hydrafacial to be adapted to your skin type. 'Occasionally harsh physical exfoliation is not suitable for patients who have sensitive or rosacea-prone skin. That said, on a more gentle setting, a Hydrafacial could be soothing for those with rosacea-prone skin,' she adds. While there is no downtime usually with this treatment, if your skin can be sensitive you may experience some redness which will likely subside within an hour.
'To add, there are some treatment contradictions to consider, particularly for those who have certain allergies, are pregnant or lactating, have active skin infections and are taking certain medications should speak to their provider who will assess skin on a case-by-case basis,' says Dr. Ana Mansouri.
What does your skin look like post-treatment?
'A Hydrafacial leaves skin with an immediate glow, with skin looking clearer, plump and hydrated, alongside feeling smooth and healthy,' says Dr. Mansouri. 'As the unique skin boosters get to work over the following days, you will also see a brighter, smoother and more radiant complexion thereafter, too.'
Skin texture, hydration and overall radiance are likely to be improved post-treatment, adds Harvey. 'The skin may appear smoother, more even-toned, and rejuvenated. Any redness or mild sensitivity experienced immediately after the treatment typically subsides within a few hours, leaving the skin looking refreshed and revitalised,' she adds.
How long does a Hydrafacial last?
The results will vary from person to person but typically around four to six weeks, says Harvey. 'Some clients may benefit from more frequent sessions, especially if they have specific skin concerns they are trying to address,' she adds.
What are the best hydrafacials to try?
The best affordable Hydrafacial: Hydrafacial signature, Thérapie Clinic
With multiple clinics around London, Thérapie Clinic is a failsafe option for a Hydrafacial, with sessions starting from £89. The 4-step facial helps cleanse, exfoliate, extract and hydrate, using a complex of peptides and hyaluronic acid to leave your skin looking glowier than ever.
The best luxe option: The Hydrafacial Skin Therapy Session, Omorovicza Mayfair Institute
In the luxurious, dimly-lit treatment rooms of Omorovicza's latest outpost, the Mayfair Institute, this Hydrafacial combines two technologies, including Omorovicza’s luxury skincare booster, Advanced Skin Renewal, as well as Hydrafacial's signature cleanse and exfoliation process. You'll leave feeling more rejuvenated while your skin will leave looking fresher and more awake.
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