In this article we are looking at Hydrafacial versus microdermabrasion to help you better understand what each of these treatments does and decide which is right for you.

Branding goes a long way in determining which treatments and technologies become house-hold names. Often celebrity endorsements and Influencer marketing is what brings a brand-name treatment into the mainstream consciousness of skincare enthusiasts. It’s a niche market, but a highly lucrative one which is all the more reason for us to unpack and understand the benefits of popular treatments like Hydrafacial. Do they live up to the hype? Are there alternative treatments that provide similar or better results?

These are just some of the questions we will be exploring in this article, so read on if you’re curious about the differences between Hydrafacial versus microdermabrasion.

Hydrafacial versus Microdermabrasion: How they Work

The Hydrafacial technology involves a wand with a vacuum suction that helps to remove surface dead skin cells, dirt and debris—the claim is this suction action is purifying the pores. This exfoliation step is combined with an acid peel to intensify the resurfacing. Additionally, a serum to address your skin condition and/or goals is applied.

Microdermabrasion is similar in that it employs vacuum suction to reveal smooth and fresh skin. There are various types of microdermabrasion technology to achieve this goal including:

  1. Crystal microdermabrasion which involves spraying the skin’s surface with fine crystals that are then suctioned away.
  2. Diamond tip microdermabrasion which involves a hand piece with a round donut-like, diamond-encrusted tip that is swept over the skin’s surface while vacuum suction aids in removing surface dead skin cells. Different intensities of exfoliation can be chosen with the various diamond tips and levels of suction.
  3. Wet/dry microdermabrasion is the most similar of these devices to the Hydrafacial technology. A diamond-encrusted tip with 6 small holes is swept over the skin in combination with vacuum suction to resurface. The treatment is highly customizable as different grades of exfoliation can be chosen with the diamond tips and the level of suction adjusted as needed. What makes it similar to the Hydrafacial technology is that customized products are applied as the diamond tip wand passes over the skin’s surface. Products may include a cleanser, an acid peel, and serums to address various skin concerns.

Hydrafacial versus Microdermabrasion: The Benefits

When trying to choose between hydrafacial versus microdermabrasion, the type of microdermabrasion technology will be a deciding factor, as well as what is included in the treatment.

  • Hydrafacial is a branded treatment which means that you can generally expect the same steps to be included in the service wherever you are in the world. Think of it as the McDonalds of skincare treatments.
  • If you are looking for a more bespoke experience, then you may opt to work with a skincare specialist that offers microdermabrasion within a customized treatment. This means that the treatment will be highly tailored to your individual needs versus opting for a treatment that is generally good for anyone and everyone.
  • The former offers predictability, while the latter has the potential to yield better results thanks to a truly customized approach.

Does Hydrafacial live up to the hype? As a branded treatment, the consistency it offers people who may travel a lot, or who may not always be able to see the same skin therapist for their service makes Hydrafacial a safe bet.

These same benefits may fall short for skincare enthusiasts who are looking for a more tailored treatment plan that changes according to the season, and meets their needs at every stage of life. If you belong to this camp, you may be interested in working with one of our certified skin therapists to develop a tailored treatment plan. Head to our online booking portal to arrange a consultation today.