When you want flawless skin, getting a facial treatment is always the best way to go. It’s the sure way to get hydrated, beautiful, glowing skin! The problem comes in when it’s time to choose a treatment, especially when comparing a HydraFacial vs. Microdermabrasion.
While there are similarities in the results of these treatments, the results they provide can vary. You might choose one over the other depending on where your problem areas are.
This might leave you scratching your head wondering which one to choose. But we promise there’s no reason to stress! We’ve laid out everything you need to know about HydraFacials vs. Microdermabrasion so you can make sure you choose the best one for your unique needs. Let’s get started!
What is the HydraFacial?
A HydraFacial is a type of facial that uses a device to cleanse, exfoliate, and extract the dead cells that exist on your skin. This device is medical-grade and works to help reduce any impurities. It is gently pressed against the skin and can be compared to a revolving electric toothbrush.
Various skin problems can be treated through HydraFacial. That includes things like fine lines, clogged pores, wrinkles, dry skin, dullness, and acne.
Three steps are followed in order to get the ultimate results and invigorate the skin.
How does it work?
First in the three steps of a HydraFacial is cleansing and exfoliation where your aesthetician will use the tip of the device to exfoliate the skin, remove dead skin cells, and open up your pores so they’re ready to be hydrated.
Following the first step is a chemical peel. The tip of the device will be changed out to a gentler one. Glycolic and salicylic acids are used to complete the chemical peel process a lot more gently than a regular chemical peel. Debris that’s packed up in the skin comes free and is washed away.
The third step in the HydraFacial process is extraction, where a strong vortex vacuum is used to suction out impurities and blackheads that might be left in the skin. All of the debris that’s extracted is collected in a cup which is discarded.
Benefits of HydraFacials
Here are some of the fantastic benefits HydraFacials provide!
No downtime
You can walk away from your appointment without having to worry about any downtime. In fact, you can apply makeup just 24 hours after your HydraFacial or even the same day if needed. The truth is, your skin will be so beautiful and glowy that you likely won’t need any makeup!
Results are instant
You’ll walk away from your HydraFacial appointment with glowing skin. There’s no need to wait for results to appear. That’s why the HydraFacial is so great as a pre-event treatment.
Improvements to your complexion
If you’re consistent in getting HydraFacials, you’re sure to see major improvements in your complexion. As the active ingredients are delivered to the skin, it becomes more hydrated than ever. You’re likely to see a more even skin texture.
Works on all skin types
Regardless of what skin type you have, HydraFacial can work wonders. Whether you’re sensitive, dry, or oily, there’s no skin type that doesn’t work well with the HydraFacial.
Helps to reduce blackheads and acne
Dead skin cells are removed from your skin when you get a HydraFacial which can make a big difference when it comes to blackheads and acne. The gentle extraction process is also great for removing build up and reducing those unwanted impurities.
What is Microdermabrasion?
Now moving on to microdermabrasion. What exactly is it?
Microdermabrasion is a technology that’s a little bit older, but it essentially works to exfoliate the skin using a tool with an abrasive surface. It works to remove dead skin cells in the same way that a HydraFacial does so that you’re eventually left with a glowing, clear complexion.
The goal of microdermabrasion is to help promote cell turnover and improve the tone and texture of the skin. Like HydraFacials, it can be used to help treat skin problems such as wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, age spots, and acne.
(Learn about dermaplaning pros and cons next)
How does it work?
The two main types of microdermabrasion are diamond tip and crystal microdermabrasion.
The diamond tip is exactly what it sounds like! A diamond tip handpiece is used to exfoliate the skin and get rid of dead skin cells. All while the debris is suctioned away.
Crystal microdermabrasion on the other hand uses a handpiece that sprays fine crystals onto the skin that work to rub away the outermost layers of the skin and reveal the clear, beautiful skin beneath. The debris is suctioned away just like it is when using the diamond tip.
Your aesthetician will decide which technique is the best choice for your skin as they use manual exfoliation.
Benefits of Microdermabrasion
Here are some of the benefits of microdermabrasion!
Helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles
Microdermabrasion is great for helping to get rid of fine lines and wrinkles that appear over time. It can help to increase brightness in the skin and decrease the visibility of unwanted lines.
Provides smooth skin
You’re sure to walk away from your microdermabrasion appointment with smooth and flawless-looking skin. This treatment helps to stimulate collagen production which ultimately aids in elasticity and leaves you with baby smooth skin.
Better absorption of products
After your appointment, it’s likely you’ll notice that your skin is more receptive to absorbing your skin care products. Microdermabrasion helps to improve circulation in the skin which means that all of the products, oxygen, and nutrients that you’re putting on it will have a clear pathway.
(Read about an oxygen hydrafacial next)
A safe procedure
When microdermabrasion is done by a skilled professional, it’s guaranteed to be a safe procedure. Your aesthetician will, of course, access your skin to determine which treatment is best for you, but if chosen, microdermabrasion will be safe for the skin and will provide you with great results.
Recovery time is short
You won’t need much time at all when it comes to recovering from your microdermabrasion appointment. It usually just takes a few hours for your skin to settle and you’ll be good to move on with your day as usual.
What are the Main Differences Between HydraFacial vs. Microdermabrasion?
When comparing HydraFacial vs. microdermabrasion, the most basic difference to note is that HydraFacial incorporates multiple techniques. Extractions, hydration, and skin peels are all a part of the process, whereas microdermabrasion is a bit simpler with just one of those steps being included as a part of the process.
One of the main things to note when it comes to differences between the two is that HyrdraFacials are generally gentler on the skin. The vacuum tip that’s used to cleanse and remove impurities in the skin is kinder to the skin and generally more effective as well.
Which Treatment is Best for You?
When deciding which treatment is best for you, you should always talk to your aesthetician so they can make recommendations based on their knowledge. There are some things that will be considered when it comes to finding the best solution for you. Here are some to think about!
- Acne: If you are looking to treat acne, then microdermabrasion likely isn’t the best choice as it can further aggravate your breakouts. A HydraFacial is usually the better choice in this case as it will remove impurities in a more gentle manner and infuse the skin with serums that can help target the problem.
- Before you go to an event: If you have a wedding or other big event coming up, a HydraFacial is going to be the best choice. It will leave you feeling glowy and healthy which is exactly what you want before a big event!
- Pigmentation: Once again, HydraFacial is going to be your best bet when it comes to pigmentation. Microdermabrasion is known to help fade away dark spots and provide radiance to the skin, but it’s even more effective when combined with things like a chemical peel. The HydraFacial will include multiple treatments that work together to target pigmentation and infuse your skin with skin brightening serums.
Book Your Next Appointment with Anushka
Once you’ve decided which treatment is best for you and your needs, it’ll be time to book your appointment!
At Anushka, the HydraFacial and microdermabrasion experiences are like nothing you’ve ever seen before. We work to bring out your beauty from within and leave you feeling more radiant and glowing than ever. The health of your skin can be improved based on science, which is something that our aestheticians are trained to use and develop a plan for your unique needs.
We only use the highest quality products and leading skincare names so you’re sure to have the most luxurious experience possible. Learn more about what we offer in terms of skin treatments here at our West Palm Beach spa and be sure to get in touch with us to book your next HydraFacial or microdermabrasion appointment!