{"id":26518,"date":"2023-10-17T11:59:45","date_gmt":"2023-10-17T18:59:45","guid":{"rendered":"https://www.realself.com\/news\/?p=26518"},"modified":"2023-10-17T11:59:48","modified_gmt":"2023-10-17T18:59:48","slug":"most-effective-facials","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https://www.realself.com\/news\/most-effective-facials","title":{"rendered":"The 6 Most Effective Medical-Grade Facials"},"content":{"rendered":"

While an afternoon at the spa is nice, the average facial—usually consisting of cleansing, extractions, and a mask application or two—might not be doing a whole lot for your skin. Medical-grade facials<\/a>, on the other hand, can offer more, with sophisticated devices and innovative technologies.<\/p>

“Spa facials may include active ingredients in a low concentration, but the main focus is on relaxation and lymphatic drainage,” says Dr. Jessie Cheung<\/a>, a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago. Meanwhile, medical-grade facials, like those offered at medspas as well as dermatology and plastic surgery practices, are intended to rejuvenate skin and address specific skin concerns like acne, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.<\/p>

For that reason, “medical-grade facials tend to have higher concentrations of active ingredients and may be administered with specific energy devices, such as a microdermabrasion machine,” says Dr. Cheung. And even though the facials are noninvasive, it’s still important to vet your provider, to make sure they can properly assess your skin and recommend the right treatment for you. With that, consider these facial upgrades that actually deliver results.<\/p>

HydraFacial<\/h2>

What it is:<\/strong> HydraFacial<\/a> is a device that pairs exfoliation (via chemical exfoliants) with hydration. Last year, it was updated with Syndeo, which allows a client’s preferences, concerns, and treatment history to be stored digitally and accessible anywhere.<\/p>

What it includes:<\/strong> Think of HydraFacial as the most comprehensive take on a traditional facial. “A HydraFacial consists of cleansing, exfoliating, and then infusing serums deep into the skin with a hydradermabrasion device, which vacuums out pores while infusing actives to deliver plumped, hydrated, and glowing skin,” says Dr. Cheung. “There is an array of boosters for all skin concerns—such as peptides for wrinkles and brighteners for pigment.” Afterward, you can view all the gunk that the machine has removed from your skin.<\/p>

Who it’s good for:<\/strong> Anyone looking for smoother skin texture and brighter tone, although the results are temporary<\/p>

How often to get it:<\/strong> Once a month<\/p>

Average price:<\/strong> $199<\/p>

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Glacial Rx<\/h2>

What it is: <\/strong>Glacial Rx<\/a> uses cooling technology to reduce inflammation and tighten skin. “The treatment harnesses cold to suppress the production of melanin, reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots and ultimately brightening the skin,” says Lucia Miranda<\/a>, CCMA, a licensed aesthetician at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue in New York City.<\/p>

What it includes:<\/strong> Glacial Rx has three modalities: Glacial Gloss pairs the cooling technology with dermabrasion, Glacial Glide applies it all over the face, and Glacial Freeze uses it to target age spots. “On average, it takes about three treatments to see results, is pain-free and safe for all skin types, and has minimal to no downtime—depending on whether you receive the targeted spot treatment,” says Miranda.<\/p>

Who it’s good for:<\/strong> People looking to even out skin tone or brighten skin<\/p>

How often to get it:<\/strong> Once a month<\/p>

Average price:<\/strong> $350–$1,500, depending on your location and provider<\/p>

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