Hydrafacial is a non-invasive skin resurfacing and rejuvenation treatment that uses patented technology to cleanse, exfoliate, extract, and hydrate the skin. The treatment is performed using a handheld device that delivers a series of serums and solutions to the skin while simultaneously using suction to remove impurities and dead skin cells.

Hydrafacial is popular because it is gentle, painless, and requires no downtime, making it a convenient option for those who want to improve the appearance of their skin without undergoing more invasive procedures. The treatment can improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve overall skin health and hydration.

Dr. Steven R. Cohen is a highly respected and experienced plastic surgeon specializing in facial plastic surgery in San Diego, California. His team of experienced aestheticians performs Hydrafacials with careful attention to each patient’s unique needs, so that every Faces+ patient enjoys healthy, glowing skin.  Are you ready for deeply cleansed and hydrated skin? Call (858) 453-7224 or fill out our online form to get started with a consultation appointment.

Learn more about cosmetic improvements available to you in San Diego by keeping up with our blog! 

About Hydrafacial

The Hydrafacial treatment involves four simple steps:

Step One: Cleanse and Exfoliate

Cleansing and exfoliating are essential steps in any skincare routine. They help remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin’s surface and promote cellular turnover for a brighter, smoother complexion. ^[1] 

During a professional cleansing and exfoliating treatment, such as with Hydrafacial, the patient can expect a thorough skin cleansing followed by a gentle exfoliation to remove dead skin cells and impurities. Patients may feel a slight tingling or mild sensation as the exfoliating solution is applied, but overall the treatment should be comfortable and relaxing.

Using the vortex extraction nozzle may cause a mild suction sensation as it removes impurities from the pores. Patients describe the feeling as satisfying – like detailing for the face!

Step Two: Gentle Acid Peel

The next step is a gentle acid peel performed using the specialized HydraPeel Tip, designed to exfoliate the skin while delivering the acid peel solution to the pores. The tip has multiple abrasive edges that gently abrade the skin, helping to remove dead skin cells and impurities from the surface. At the same time, the tip also delivers the acid peel solution, which is typically formulated with a combination of alpha and beta hydroxy acids to enhance the treatment’s exfoliating and pore-cleansing benefits. ^[2]

The acid peel solution used in a Hydrafacial treatment may also contain other active ingredients, such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which can help to:

The solution is left on the skin for a short time, typically 1-2 minutes, before being neutralized with a specialized solution. Patients may experience a mild tingling or warm sensation during this time, but the treatment is tolerable.

Step Three: Extraction

The next step in a Hydrafacial treatment after the gentle acid peel is the extraction of blackheads and other impurities from the skin. This step is important for patients prone to:

During this step, a specialized suction device extracts impurities from the pores. The device has a unique vacuum technology that creates a vortex effect, which dislodges and removes impurities from the skin. The suction device also delivers a hydrating serum to the skin to soothe and nourish the treated area.

The extractions are typically performed on the T-zone area, which includes the forehead, nose, and chin. These areas have the most oil and are prone to blackheads and blemishes. ^[3] The suction device extracts the impurities from each pore, leaving the skin clearer and more even-toned.

Patients may experience a mild sensation during the extractions, but the procedure is not painful. The overall effect is a smoother, clearer complexion free of impurities. After the extractions, the skin is prepared for the final step of the treatment, which involves the delivery of nourishing serums to hydrate and protect the skin.

Step Four: Hydrate!

The final step of a Hydrafacial treatment involves skin hydration with a combination of antioxidants and hyaluronic acid to restore its natural glow.

During this step, a specialized serum containing antioxidants such as vitamins A, E, and C is applied to the skin. These antioxidants help to protect the skin from environmental damage, such as UV rays and pollution and promote healthy cell growth. ^[4] Additionally, hyaluronic acid is used to deeply hydrate the skin and improve its texture and tone.

The serum is delivered to the skin using a special device that also uses the vortex effect to penetrate the serum deeply into the skin. This helps to ensure that the skin is fully hydrated and nourished. The final result is skin that feels soft, smooth, and radiant.

What are the Benefits of Hydrafacial?

Hydrafacial treatment can be particularly beneficial for patients with oily or congested skin, as it helps to unclog pores and remove impurities that can lead to breakouts. However, it is also gentle enough for patients with sensitive skin, as the solution is formulated to be non-irritating. The treatment suits all skin types and can be customized based on skin concerns.

Hydrafacial can help

One of the key benefits of Hydrafacial is its ability to be customized based on each patient’s individual needs. The treatment can be tailored to address specific skin concerns, such as acne, rosacea, or uneven skin tone. Additionally, the serums used during the treatment can be customized to target specific skin concerns, such as dehydration or inflammation.

Who are the Ideal Candidates For Hydrafacial?

Hydrafacial is suitable for patients who want to maintain their skin’s health and appearance or those who want to enhance the results of other cosmetic treatments. This gentle and non-invasive treatment is suitable for patients with sensitive skin or those who prefer to avoid harsher treatments, such as chemical peels or laser resurfacing. Patients of all ages, both male and female, can benefit from this next-level facial!

Personal Consultation

During your personalized consultation at Faces+, we will take the time to listen to your concerns and assess your skin type and condition. Our aestheticians will discuss the benefits of Hydrafacial and explain how it can improve the health and appearance of your skin. We’ll also answer any questions you have about the treatment, the expected results, and the aftercare instructions.

If Hydrafacial is not your best option, we will recommend alternative treatments or procedures that may better address your concerns. We may also suggest combining Hydrafacial with other cosmetic treatments for more comprehensive and personalized results.

The personalized consultation approach at Faces+ ensures that every patient receives individualized and effective care. We want to help you achieve your desired results and boost your confidence in your skin’s appearance. Ready to learn more? Call (858) 453-7224 to get started.

Preparation

Preparing for a Hydrafacial treatment is simple and straightforward. It is advisable to avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 24 hours before the treatment. Patients should also avoid other facial treatments, chemical peels, or exfoliants for at least one week before the treatment. Let us know about any allergies or skin sensitivities.

Procedure

On the day of the treatment, ensure your skin is free of makeup, lotions, and other products. One of Dr. Cohen’s aestheticians will begin your treatment with a specialized cleanser that is gentle on the skin. The Hydrafacial device’s specialized tip will suction away debris, making your skin immaculately clean. Next, the gentle acid peel solution will loosen dirt and impurities in the pores, getting deeper and clearing out blockages that may be causing inflammation and breakouts. The Hydrafacial device is used to extract blackheads, whiteheads, and other impurities from the skin using a painless suction process. A special serum containing hyaluronic acid and antioxidants is applied to the skin to hydrate, nourish and protect the skin. Finally, the skin is protected with a specialized moisturizer and sunscreen to keep it looking fresh and youthful.

Recovery

After the treatment, patients can immediately resume their normal activities, and no downtime or recovery period is required. We recommend protecting your skin from the sun immediately after the appointment and going forward!

The Results

After a Hydrafacial treatment, many patients report that their skin looks and feels rejuvenated, refreshed, and hydrated. The skin can appear brighter and more radiant, with a smoother and softer texture. 

Additionally, the treatment can improve the skin’s overall appearance, including reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Patients often describe their skin as feeling deeply cleansed, purified, nourished, and hydrated. These benefits can last for several days to a week, and with regular treatments, patients can maintain healthier and more youthful-looking skin over time.

What is the Cost of Hydrafacial in San Diego?

The cost of your treatment can be better understood by booking a consultation appointment with our aestheticians. We look forward to meeting you. Call (858) 453-7224 or fill out our online form to get started!

References

1. Kong R, Thacker R, Baswan S, Ganesan C. A New Look at Skin Cell Turnover. Accessed March 10, 2023. https://www.scconline.org/Portals/100/SCC76%20Preprint%20Kong.pdf
2. Babilas P, Knie U, Abels C. Cosmetic and dermatologic use of alpha hydroxy acids. JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft. 2012;10(7):488-491. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1610-0387.2012.07939.x
3. Endly DC, Miller RA. Oily Skin: A review of Treatment Options. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2017;10(8):49-55. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5605215/
4. Shapiro SS, Saliou C. Role of vitamins in skin care. Nutrition. 2001;17(10):839-844. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0899-9007(01)00660-8