What is a HydraFacial?

A HydraFacial is a non-invasive skincare treatment that combines steps to cleanse, exfoliate, remove impurities and hydrate the skin. Originating in the US, it's a professional treatment offered in spas, salons and clinics using a specialist machine that uses a patented technology called the Vortex Fusion system to cleanse, exfoliate and extract.

It's a relatively quick treatment, usually taking 30-60 minutes. They're recommended every 4-6 weeks, so they can ensure that you get repeat business in your salon.

While the treatment is customisable, depending on your client and their skin goals, the main stages of a Hydrafacial include:

• Cleansing and exfoliation: dead skin cells are removed from the skin's surface using a gentle exfoliating technique
• Acid peel: a mild peel solution is applied to smooth, exfoliate and loosen dirt and debris
• Extraction: using a vacuum-like tip to gently extract debris from the pores without damaging the skin
• Hydration: antioxidants and hyaluronic acid are infused into the skin to nourish and hydrate, promoting a healthy glow;

The HydraFacial treatment involves the use of water-based solutions and serums. The specialised machine employs a vortex-like suction tip and different solutions to perform the various steps of the facial. It has a unique spiral design and a vacuum-like tip to create a vortex effect that effectively cleanses, exfoliates and extracts impurities from the skin. It's described as medical-grade dermabrasion without being rough on your skin.

Throughout the process, water-based solutions, including cleansing solutions, exfoliants, and hydrating serums rich in antioxidants and hyaluronic acid, are used to cleanse and nourish the skin. Water is essential in the HydraFacial treatment, helping deliver these solutions and helping remove impurities and dead skin cells from the skin's surface without causing discomfort. The infusion of hydrating serums also helps to replenish and moisturise the skin, leaving it refreshed and rejuvenated.

It's a popular treatment, with over 40,000 Google searches in the UK each month for "HydraFacial" and over 14,000 searches of "HydraFacial near me", according to Google Trends. Each year, around 3.5 million HydraFacial treatments are carried out worldwide. If you're looking to update the treatments you offer in your salon or want to learn a new skill that's profitable for your salon and popular with clients, a HydraFacial could be the one you're looking for.

Benefits of a HydraFacial

The main benefits of this treatment are that they're deep cleansing and exfoliating. This means dead skin cells are removed and pores are unclogged for fresher and brighter skin, along with better absorption of skincare products.

A HydraFacial also delivers intense hydration to the skin. Regular HydraFacial treatments can lead to a noticeable skin tone and texture improvement. It helps to address various skin concerns while stimulating collagen production, too. Plus, it's gentle and customisable.

When it comes to the downsides of the treatment, the equipment and training can be expensive—as can the cost of treatments for your clients. Some clients may also experience purging initially.

Why is a HydraFacial different from other types of facial?

The biggest differences between HydraFacial and other facials are the HydraFacial technology and the process. The treatment can be tailored to address specific skincare concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and congested pores. It's even suitable for sensitive skin or as a preventative skincare maintenance option.

It's a relatively gentle treatment suitable for all skin types and concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone and congested pores. Many clients are serious advocates for the treatment, seeing immediate improvements in their skin's appearance and texture after a session.

What training do you need to offer HydraFacial in the UK?

As it's a professional treatment, you need to be a qualified beauty therapist or facialist—to the equivalent of a level 2 qualification. You also need to undertake HydraFacial specific training to offer the treatment to clients. This training covers the technology and equipment, treatment protocols, client consultation and safety, including aftercare.

Additionally, maintaining certification or participating in continuing education is necessary to stay updated on new techniques or advancements in HydraFacial treatments and purchase the equipment and products you need to carry out a genuine HydraFacial.

How much does a HydraFacial cost?

The cost of a HydraFacial can vary depending on location, customisation, the experience of the therapist and add-on services, but usually, they cost between £80-£150. Again, this depends on factors like offers and packages—it's a great service to offer as part of a deal to introduce your clients to the benefits.

According to Aesthetic Medicine, some salons generate over £100,000 yearly from HydraFacial treatments. So, if there's demand in your area that isn't being met, it could be a real opportunity for your salon.

Are HydraFacials a safe treatment?

HydraFacials are generally considered safe for most skin types. They're non-invasive and don't involve harsh chemicals or extensive downtime. However, as with any cosmetic procedure, there can be some mild side effects and considerations like minor irritation or rare adverse reactions, including allergic reactions or infections—particularly if proper hygiene or technique isn't followed during the procedure.

A HydraFacial may not be suitable for certain skin conditions, such as active rashes, sunburns or open sores. While the treatment is generally fine for sensitive skin, levels of skin sensitivity can vary from one person to another. That's why it's so important to be thorough about your consultation process with a HydraFacial (and any other types of treatment) and ensure you have the right specialist beauty insurance cover.

Are there alternatives to a HydraFacial?

There are alternatives to HydraFacial on the market, many of which either use similar technology or a similar-sounding name. Only genuine HydraFacial treatments use the patented technology and processes, and they have brand name recognition with clients. Check carefully that any training or equipment you're buying is genuine if you want to offer a legitimate HydraFacial treatment.

There are other treatments you can offer instead of a HydraFacial that can give similar results—chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing or an oxygen facial—but they aren't the same thing and don't necessarily have the same brand recognition as a HydraFacial does.

For more information about HydraFacial as a treatment, visit the HydraFacial UK professional site.

Specialist hair and beauty insurance through Ripe

Whether you’re a beautician or salon owner, insuring your beauty business through Ripe can help provide financial protection and peace of mind should the worst happen.

Hair and beauty insurance arranged by Ripe includes Public and Products Liability cover as well as treatment risk cover, with the opportunity to build your own policy so you’re never paying for more than you need.

Find out more about specialist hair and beauty insurance through Ripe or get a quick online quote today.