However, some treatments become tried and trusted classics, and the popular 6-in-1 HydraFacial is fast becoming one of them.
What exactly is a HydraFacial?
If you’re looking for a rejuvenating yet deep cleansing facial that improves the condition and glowiness of your skin, a high-tech HydraFacial could be just the ticket.Classed as a medical grade facial because it penetrates 20 times deeper than regular facials, it uses a technique referred to as ‘hydradermabrasion’—combining microdermabrasion and hydration to deeply cleanse, hydrate and resurface.
Using active botanical ingredients and antioxidants to directly infuse the skin, it gives immediate results including freshness and radiance with no downtime, making it the perfect skin boost before a big event or special occasion.
Being non-invasive, you won’t feel any discomfort or pain when having a HydraFacial—many people compare the sensation to a light massage.
And guess what? It can even be used on the lips for a subtle plump with no needles in sight – ask your practitioner for ‘Perk Lip’.
What does the treatment involve?
There are six steps:Detox: Relaxing lymphatic drainage helps to release toxins and improve circulation of the lymph system.
Cleanse & Exfoliation: This is when your therapist gets to work with a vacuum-based hand-held device which gently exfoliates, resurfaces and removes dead skin cells, dirt and impurities.
Brightening: A gentle glycolic acid and salicylic solution helps clear debris from your pores, thus brightening your skin.
Extraction: Blackheads and impurities in congested areas are extracted with painless suction, followed by intense hydration.
Hydration: A combination of best-in-class ingredients including moisturising hyaluronic acid, antioxidants and peptides help to plump and hydrate your skin.
Rejuvenation: Red LED light is applied to boost collagen, improve skin texture and help reduce any redness, leaving your skin glowing.
What skin types will benefit?
HydraFacials are suitable for all skin types and skin issues, yes really! You can book in whether you’re simply after skin maintenance, want to improve skin health or address a specific skin condition such as acne.If you’re concerned about fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation or acne, a HydraFacial can clear, freshen and even your skin tone after just one session.
It’s also great for dull skin, dry skin and pigmentation—there is an element of microdermabrasion which can visibly reduce dark patches and age spots.
If your skin is very delicate or sensitive, the suction part of the treatment can be reduced to make it less abrasive.
If you feel your skin needs extra help, many clinics and practitioners offer bespoke HydraFacials that are tailored to your individual needs. At Dr Nestor in Edinburgh, six HydraFacial treatments are offered, including Acne and Congested Skin, Brightalive Booster, and Rozatrol Booster for sensitised skin.
Dr Anna Hemming at Thames Skin Clinic uses up to 10 steps for optimum skin rejuvenation, while HydraFacial trainer Zoe Myers of Authentic Aesthetics offers seven variants including an Express treatment, a Platinum experience and the Hydra-Bacial back treatment.
How long do the effects last?
One 30 minute treatment is enough to see noticeable results including hydration, firmness, softness and luminosity; some patients have reported the increased hydration lasting up to seven days.Regular monthly facials are recommended to ensure optimal skin health and appearance.
Where can I get a HydraFacial?
The treatment is widely available; in fact, many of the practitioners listed on EV offer HydraFacial, including Dr Nestor Demosthenous, Dr Anna Hemming at Thames Skin Clinic, Dr Ionnis Liakas, Anamica Prasad, Sean White, Zoe Myers and Dina Patel.HydraFacial cannot be performed during pregnancy, or on anyone with severe allergies to honey, shellfish and/or aspirin. If you have any medical condition, it’s advisable to consult your GP before booking an appointment.