HydraFacial Vs MicroDermAbrasion: Which Facial Treatment is Better for You?

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By Anna Marikar

In a time where people are becoming increasingly conscious about their skin health, we decided to compare two of the most popular treatments on the market today—HydraFacial and MicroDermAbrasion.

Both HydraFacial and MicroDermAbrasion are popular non-invasive cosmetic procedures that address facial imperfections such as sun spots, enlarged pores, uneven skin tone and other skin irregularities. Both of these treatments are popular among women and men alike.

HydraFacial vs. MicroDermAbrasion—which is better for your skin? Learn how each facial treatment works and compare their benefits.

glowing skin

Many of us spend a lot of time in front of the mirror each day, whether we want to or not. Most of us want to look our best, and that means keeping our skin looking youthful and healthy. 

Maintaining clear fresh youthful flawless skin is one of the things that can really impact the way we feel about our looks, the way we look in photographs, our self confidence. Taking care of our selves is just as important as taking care of the loved ones in our life, so we need to prioritise these things too. 

When it comes to choosing the best facial treatment for you, the decision can be confusing!

The question at hand is which facial treatment is better: HydraFacial or Microdermabrasion. In this article we’ll compare both methods and show you which is better for your specific needs.

Read this before you book that facial treatment, and let’s find. out more!

youthful skin

What are the Differences Between HydraFacial and MicroDermAbrasion? And How Does Each Treatment Work?

Both treatments can remove the top layer of skin, which can reduce fine lines and wrinkles, but there are many other benefits to each treatment as well.

HydraFacial is a non-invasive treatment that combines a microdermabrasion style exfoliation, with the use of hydrating serums. This process uses a water oxygen jet machine and works to remove dead skin cells, tighten pores, and revitalize the skin. The facial is commonly used on the face, neck, chest, arms, hands, legs, and feet. There is no pain or downtime associated with this procedure.

One of the more popular skincare treatments in the beauty industry, microdermabrasion is a method of exfoliating the top layer, or the outer layer of the skin.

Microdermabrasion, also known as microderm, is a skin-resurfacing procedure that involves the use of tiny crystals to exfoliate the outermost layer of skin. It is used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including fine lines, hyperpigmentation and acne scarring. The procedure can be used on all types of skin including the face. This gentle procedure uses a microdermabrasion machine, which is a fine diamond-tipped wand. The diamond tip is used to rub across the skin and gently remove dead skin cells, leaving the skin soft with a smoother appearance.

The Pros and Cons of Each Treatment

HydraFacial treatment is a minimally invasive procedure, is a popular way to smooth away signs of aging, but are there any side effects? The procedure involves a series of micro-needling and extraction steps performed by a dermatologist that use high-powered pulses of laser energy to stimulate collagen production. It can remove the signs of skin aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, as well as removing dead cells and helps to improve the texture and tone of the skin.

HydraFacial’s patented technology can target each of the three layers of the skin’s surface to help improve your complexion and work on the appearance of fine lines This results in a brighter, more radiant appearance.

The downside of this skin treatment can be the cost, and the need to continue regular treatments to help your skin achieve maximum results.

Microdermabrasion is one of the most popular procedures used to help treat and eliminate unwanted facial and body skin damage. This method of exfoliating the skin is most commonly used to remove dead skin cells and excess build-up on the face. It is also used to help fade dark spots, repair sun damage, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. The microdermabrasion treatment is usually done in the office and is an outpatient procedure, but can be performed at home by anyone with a little experience and skill.

The microdermabrasion treatments are generally less expensive than other options on the market. 

Both skin care treatments are non invasive and do not have a recovery time, like you would have with any facial surgical procedures. They are a much less risky way of achieving smoother skin.

However, microdermabrasion is more suitable for people with fair skin and may not be suitable for those with darker skin (like some laser treatments and light therapy) so be sure to check your suitability for microdermabrasion facials before booking an appointment.

The History of Facials and Abrasions

In the past, patients looking to get rid of their acne often turned to the old-school method of salicylic acid peels. These treatments were a lot of work, however, and left behind a lot of visible skin damage. For the patient, these chemical peels also had their drawbacks so both hydrafacials and microdermabrasion treatments offer an improved experience. 

Both of these newer treatments work to increase the production of collagen, so that your skin naturally works with its own elasticity and stays more youthful. They improve blood flow and circulation, which gives you better nutrient and oxygen circulation.

How Much Does It Cost?

Prices vary from clinic to clinic but you are looking at around 150 per session for Hydrafacial or 65 per session for Microdermabrasion. 

microdermabrasion treatment

What Kinds of Skincare Products Should You Use Before or After Each Facial?

After microdermabrasion avoid anything that raises your body temperature such as saunas or steam rooms, and discontinue the use of any exfoliating products on your treated skin for a round a week but make sure to use a good moisturiser to keep skin hydrated. 

After a hydrafacial you can apply your normal make up straight away, but avoid products with glycolic acid or other exfoliants. 

Alcohol based toners could irriate your skin after both treatments, so it’s better to avoid. 

It’s also recommended not to use retinol on your face for three days before your treatment. 

How Much Time Does It Take to Have a HydraFacial or Microdermabrasion?

A hydrafacial can be done in 30 minutes.

Microdermabrasian can be done in a similar time frame, around 45 minutes. 

You can get these procedures done in medical spas, salons or a dermatoligist office.

Is It Safe to Have a Hydrafacial or MicroDermAbrasion in the Summer?

All deep exfoliating facials can increase your skin sensitivity to the sun, so be careful! We have all seen those people who had a treatment like this and then went out to the beach – this can be damaging to your skin and leave you more at risk of sunburn.

Plan to stay out of direct strong sunlight for 3 days after your treatment, and make sure to always use a good quality sunscreen for your face, to make sure that you are protected. 

You should also avoid using tanning beds after these treatments, again due to the sensitive skin and the risk of damage.

skincare in the sun after microdermabrasion

How Long Should the Treatment Last?

The results of hydrafacial are said to last 5-7 days, and it’s recommended to have one treatment per month to maintain your results. 

For microdermabrasion it is recommended to have between 6-12 sessions before you see drastic results, so some people have this treatment weekly. It is a multi-step treatment if you are looking for best results. Do not expect immediate results.

If you are looking for results ahead of a big event, a hydrafacial may be the better option to give you instant results

Which Treatment Should I Have If I Have Acne?

acne skin treatments

Both treatments can be tailored towards acne prone skin so be sure to discuss with your dermatologist or practitioner if you suffer from severe acne or specific skin concerns, to make sure the treatment is adjusted for you and your skin type to get the most benefit and to discuss how these treatments could work on improving existing acne scars.

In conclusion, it is very difficult to pinpoint which treatment would work better for you. It depends on each individual’s skin types and sensitivity to different products. A professional will be able to determine what is the best treatment for you. So do not get discouraged if one product doesn’t work for you. There are many facials that you can try, and after trying it out you will soon come to find which is the best option for your individual needs. 

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Anna is a Wales-based writer and graduate from SOAS University of London.
As the voice behind On Your Journey, she empowers women to embrace holistic well-being and spiritual growth through her expert insights into wellness and symbolism.
When she isn't writing thought-provoking articles, you'll find her busy crafting and raising her 4 children.

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