Dr Smriti Shrestha, founder of Akarshan Skin and Hair Clinic, explains the benefits of HydraFacial and its possible side effects.

What is HydraFacial, and what are its uses?

HydraFacial is a simple procedure that uses a machine to clean the face. It removes blackheads, whiteheads, and dead skin cells using vacuum suction technology, providing nutrients to the skin. The three main goals are extraction, infusion, and hydration. Like a vacuum for carpets, the HydraFacial machine extracts skin impurities while infusing serums with water-based solutions. It tightens the skin with additional handles like bipolar and tripolar. HydraFacial is rejuvenating, safe for all skin types, and can be done on the face, neck, and chest in as little as 15 minutes.

What are the steps of HydraFacial treatment?

The treatment begins with a consultation to assess the skin type.

Cleansing and Exfoliation: To prepare the skin, dead skin cells are removed using an ultrasonic scrubber and warm steam.

Extraction: Blackheads and whiteheads are removed painlessly with a vacuum tip and water.

Hydration and Infusion: Antioxidants and hyaluronic acid are infused into the skin using vortex fusion technology tailored to the skin type.

Bipolar Radiofrequency: RF energy stimulates collagen production, tightening the skin and reducing fine lines.

Customised Face Mask: A jelly-rubber mask is applied based on skin needs.

LED Light Therapy (optional): Enhances skin health by boosting collagen and elastin production.

What are the main benefits of getting this treatment?

The HydraFacial treatment deeply cleanses the skin and infuses it with essential serums, which are effectively absorbed. Regular facials improve skin tone and radiance while detoxifying and treating acne-prone skin. Although suitable for all skin types, HydraFacial is especially beneficial for oily skin, which may not respond well to other procedures. Some key benefits include:

Fine lines and wrinkles: It reduces the appearance of fine lines by exfoliating and delivering antioxidants and peptides that boost collagen production.

Acne: HydraFacial reduces clogged pores and breakouts by removing impurities and dead skin cells. It also includes a serum specifically for acne-prone skin.

Hyperpigmentation: The treatment brightens skin tone by removing dead cells and infusing brightening agents and antioxidants.

Dullness: It enhances overall radiance by deeply cleansing, exfoliating, and hydrating the skin.

Congestion: The Hydropeel tip gently removes impurities and dead skin cells, helping to unclog pores.

How quickly can someone see results after a HydraFacial?

Each session can achieve noticeable skin refinement. An individual with normal, radiant skin may just need a single treatment, and results will appear immediately and last a week or longer.

To maintain the disappearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and blocked pores, a series of six treatments at 2-4 weeks is recommended. The results will last much longer after the initial series of treatments, and fewer maintenance treatments will be required over time.

However, someone who does skin care regularly and has clear skin may not see much difference.

Cost of HydraFacial Treatments in Nepal?

It starts from Rs2,000 to 4,000 in Nepal.

Are there any alternatives to this that provide similar benefits?

HydraFacial is unmatched for deep skin cleansing. However, treatments like carbon laser facials or superficial chemical peels can offer similar benefits to HydraFacial without causing side effects.

What are the key differences between HydraFacial and traditional facials?

The key difference with HydraFacial is that hands are rarely used, except during cleansing, as the rest is done with a machine. It's a tech-based facial using minimal chemicals, avoiding the side effects common with traditional facials. HydraFacial replaces dirt with water after cleansing, unlike traditional methods. You can opt to use serums or not, while traditional facials always involve chemical-based products. The Hydra jelly mask is chemical-free, unlike the masks in traditional facials, which can cause dryness and sensitivity.

Are there any potential risks or side effects associated with the treatment?

While HydraFacial has no side effects, it can aggravate cystic skin, so it's only used for blackhead extractions, which may cause pimples. Extra care is needed when performing HydraFacial on cystic acne.

Reusing suction tips between patients can lead to infections. We use separate, sterilised tips for each patient, following strict medical protocols. However, many parlours offering HydraFacial may lack this knowledge.

Additionally, if the machine's water supply is improperly maintained, it can lead to fungal growth. We replace the machine's pipes twice yearly and ensure they are dried and disinfected to prevent fungus. Using old, unclean machines could increase the risk of fungal growth and possible infections.

Are there any skin conditions for which you would not recommend a HydraFacial?

I usually don't recommend HydraFacial to people with unrealistic expectations, like those hoping it will remove melasma, acne scars, or wrinkles, as it doesn't cure or eliminate these issues. Also, I advise against HydraFacial for those with severe acne.

How does this treatment affect the skin in the long term?

There haven't been any studies on the long-term effects of HydraFacial yet. However, regular exfoliation, removing dead skin, and frequent massages can improve skin health. HydraFacial is a long-term investment, so results shouldn't be expected immediately.

Are there any specific steps that make the treatment more effective?

If possible, stop using HydraFacial for 2 or 3 days and avoid wearing makeup or other skincare products on the day of the treatment.

I recommend moisturising more frequently than usual for post-care, as the skin can become slightly dry from the vacuum suction and water used during the procedure. Additionally, protecting your skin for at least one day after the treatment is beneficial.