Is Aquafacial the same as Hydrafacial?
By Leila Cunningham, Head of Skin Care Products at CLN Company
Aquafacial and Hydrafacial. Their similar-sounding titles might lead you to believe they're interchangeable solutions. However, beneath the surface lie distinct approaches to achieving that coveted glow. Fear not, as this guide will delve into the essence of each treatment, unveiling their key differences and empowering you to choose the option that best aligns with your skin care goals and lifestyle.
In this article, we'll navigate the inner-workings of both Aquafacial and Hydrafacial, shedding light on their unique properties, processes, and how they affect your skin. By understanding these distinctions, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and embark on your personalized journey toward luminous skin.
What is Aquafacial?
Aquafacial is an at-home device designed to exfoliate, cleanse, and hydrate your skin, tackling fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes, and dark spots. It also promotes collagen production and circulation, resulting in a more even skin tone and texture. Aquafacial devices are designed to be combined with Aquafacial Cleansing serum, which contains a specifically selected set of bioactive ingredients, that deliver a deep cleanse.
Effects on Your Skin
The Aquafacial is known for its gentleness. It's effective and safe without being overly abrasive, making it a go-to choice for those with sensitive skin or for individuals who struggle with traditional exfoliation methods.
Recommended by skin care specialists that you work Aquafacial treatments into your skin care regimen every 2-3 days to keep your skin looking its best.
Session Length
A single Aquafacial at-home treatment only takes a handful of minutes to execute.
Cost
The initial investment in an Aquafacial device is equal to ~1.5 Hydrafacial procedures, meaning you’ll see cost savings before your first week of use is over.
What is a Hydrafacial?
Hydrafacials are a procedure administered by skin care professionals. They utilize a machine that touts a “Vortex-Fusion” system to cleanse, exfoliate, extract, and hydrate skin. A multi-step handpiece equipped with hydra-dermabrasion tips and a vacuum delivers medical-grade serums tailored to your specific needs. This treatment addresses concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage.
Hydrafacial machines are large, cost roughly between $20,000-$30,000, and are typically administered by a professional. The serums used must also be prescribed and administered by skin care professionals and each address a very specific issue. This kind of precision is why the treatment is popular amongst those who seek a more clinical approach to skin care.
Post-Treatment Effects
Hydrafacials can be slightly more irritating to your skin immediately after a treatment. Mild side effects after treatment such as slight redness, temporary skin sensitivity, tingling sensations and feelings of dryness or tightness. In most cases, these effects dissipate within a day, sometimes within a couple of hours.
Application Intervals
To maintain the post-treatment “glow,” most skin care professionals recommend undergoing a Hydrafacial treatment every 4-6 weeks.
Per-Session Length
A Hydrafacial treatment session usually lasts about 30 minutes, but can vary depending on the skin care professionals administering the treatment. Additionally, travel and waiting-room time will add to the window of your day that the experience eats into.
Cost
A single Hydrafacial treatment costs somewhere between $150 and $350 dollars, depending on factors such as your location and your specific provider.
So, Are Aquafacials and Hydrafacials The Same Thing?
The short answer is, no, Aquafacial and Hydrafacial are not exactly the same thing. While they both aim to achieve a radiant complexion through cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration, they differ in several key aspects.
Performed by a licensed esthetician or dermatologist in a clinical setting, Hydrafacial leverages their expertise to personalize the treatment based on your unique skin concerns. This personalized approach ensures targeted solutions for issues like fine lines, wrinkles, or sun damage. Sessions typically last around 30 minutes and are recommended every 4-6 weeks to maintain results. However, the professional setting comes at the cost of both a high price point (ranging from $150 to $350 per treatment) as well as a much larger and more complicated time commitment when considering community, time in the office, and hours of operation.
Aquafacial empowers you to take charge of your skin care routine from the comfort of your home. The Aquafacial device utilizes various tips for customization, allowing you to tailor the treatment to your specific needs. This at-home convenience translates to significant cost savings compared to repeated Hydrafacial visits. While the initial investment in the device (around $250) might seem substantial, it can be cost-effective in the long run, working out to less than $4.00 per treatment. especially with frequent use. However, be careful, the DIY approach requires some research and understanding of the proper technique to make sure you get the best results. Additionally, the recommended frequency for Aquafacial treatments is every 2-3 days, allowing for a more consistent approach to maintaining a healthy glow.
Don't Ditch Your Skincare Pro!
Think of Aquafacial as a powerful at-home tool, just like a good toothbrush. Brushing keeps your teeth clean, but regular dentist visits provide deeper cleanings and checkups. Similarly, Aquafacial offers regular cleansing and hydration, but professional estheticians and dermatologists can address deeper concerns and monitor your skin's overall health.
The key is to find a synergy. Combine regular Aquafacial treatments with professional appointments to achieve optimal results. This way, you'll enjoy the benefits of both: at-home maintenance and in-depth professional care.
