All About the Hydrafacial vs Microdermabrasion

When it comes to maintaining youthful, glowing skin, regular exfoliating face treatments are extremely effective. Not only do they reveal smoother, younger-looking skin, they also brighten your complexion and help fade hyperpigmentation. Exfoliating treatments are also beneficial for treating and preventing the formation of fine lines and wrinkles as well as acne and blackheads. Currently, two of the most popular exfoliating facials are the hydrafacial and microdermabrasion. 

So which of these exfoliating skin treatments is best?

If you are considering a hydrafacial vs microdermabrasion, continue reading to learn more and determine which treatment is better for your skin. 

About Hydrafacial 

The HydraFacial is an effective skin treatment that immediately delivers long-term hydration and pore clarifying benefits without causing irritation. In one session, the treatment is able to remove dead skin cells and extract impurities, while also cleansing and moisturizing the skin to reveal a radiant, moisturized glow to your complexion. 

The HydraFacial can also be customized based on your individual skin concerns using enhancements such as Boosters, Lymphatic Therapy, LED Light Therapy, and Perk treatments. For example, if you suffer from dry lips, a Lip Perk treatment can be added to provide extra nourishment. Meanwhile, if you experience puffy, inflamed skin, Lymphatic Drainage can be added to help expel fluid build-up and improve circulation. For more information on add-on treatments and which is best for your skin type, speak with your HydraFacial professional prior to your appointment.

How the Treatment Works

The HydraFacial treatment uses a specially designed and patented Vortex-Fusion technology to painlessly exfoliate, extract, and hydrate the skin. The spiral shape of the HydroPeels tool creates a “vortex effect” to easily remove bacteria and excess oil while simultaneously moisturizing the skin with nourishing serums. 

What Skin Types is the Hydrafacial Recommended for?

The Hydrafacial is recommended for all skin types. It’s ideal for oily, acne-prone skin due to the deep exfoliation and extraction it provides. Additionally, the HydraFacial treatment is helpful for rejuvenating dry, flaky skin since it offers many skin soothing benefits to restore hydration. Lastly, the HydraFacial is excellent for aging skin due to the nourishing moisturizers, peptides, and antioxidants it delivers to help restore a plump, youthful appearance to the skin. 

What to Expect When Receiving a Hydrafacial

The HydraFacial treatment follows three steps to reveal glowing, radiant skin. The first step of the process involves cleansing, gentle exfoliation, and resurfacing in order to remove dead skin cells and reveal a new layer of smooth skin. Next, a painless suctioning process extracts debris from pores and simultaneously nourishes the skin with intense moisturizing agents. The last step is saturating the skin’s surface with antioxidants and peptides in order to provide long-lasting results. After treatment, you can expect to notice a more even skin tone and visible anti-aging results. 

The entire HydraFacial treatment is able to be completed in just 30 minutes, so feel free to schedule your appointment during your lunch break or in between running errands. Those who receive treatment describe it as refreshing and soothing. With no downtime required, you can apply makeup immediately after treatment. 

What is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion involves physically exfoliating the top layer of skin by rubbing fine crystals into the skin using a handheld device. Unlike the Hydrafacial, microdermabrasion does not provide any moisturizing benefits to the skin — something to consider when thinking about getting a hydrafacial vs microdermabrasion. 

How the Treatment Works

Microdermabrasion works by using abrasive particles to buff the skin, removing dead skin cells to reveal a new layer of tissue. This can help the skin temporarily feel smoother and appear brighter. 

What Skin Types is Microdermabrasion Recommended for?

Microdermabrasion is most suitable for oily skin as the treatment can further dehydrate dry skin types. Since microdermabrasion can be abrasive, it is not recommended for sensitive skin. Additionally, microdermabrasion should be avoided if you suffer from eczema or rosacea, or have fragile skin as it can cause micro-tears to occur. 

What to Expect When Receiving a Microdermabrasion Treatment 

Microdermabrasion treatments are expected to last 30-40 minutes. Although not usually painful, the treatment can feel similar to a scratching or scrubbing sensation. Due to the abrasive nature of the treatment, you may experience sunburn-like symptoms in the following few days, such as swelling and redness. To avoid further irritation, it is recommended that you stay out of the sun, pause the use of retinol products, and refrain from exercising for a week post-treatment. 

Comparing the Hydrafacial vs Microdermabrasion Treatment

Hydrafacial: Pros and Cons 

• Exfoliates and nourishes the skin
• No downtime required after treatment
• Uses a gentle “Vortex” suction technique
• Can be customized with Boosters and Perk treatments
• Ideal for sensitive skin

Microdermabrasion: Pros and Cons

• Exfoliates the skin 
• Recommended to avoid the sun, working out, and retinol products after treatment
• Uses an abrasive rubbing technique to remove dead skin cells
• Non-customizable 
• Best suited for oily skin types

The Bottom Line on Hydrafacial vs Microdermabrasion Treatment

Here at Aqua Vitality, we recommend the Hydrafacial over other microdermabrasion treatments on the market due to its milder exfoliation and incredible benefits. Our skincare professionals also recommend this treatment for all skin types as it can target a variety of skin concerns. 

If you are still unsure which exfoliating treatment is right for you, or have questions about the hydrafacial vs microdermabrasion, contact us to meet with one of our skincare providers. They can take a comprehensive look at your skin type and go over your skin concerns and goals. At Aqua Vitality, we believe everyone deserves to feel confident in their own skin, and we can’t wait to help you choose the right treatment to achieve a bright, smooth complexion.