When it comes to skincare treatments, not all facials are created equal. You’ve probably heard of the Hydrafacial, maybe seen the glow-up posts or heard a friend rave about how smooth their skin felt afterward.
But what actually sets it apart from a traditional facial? And is it really worth the upgrade? If you’re trying to decide between the two, or simply want to understand what each treatment can do, you’re in the right place.
Let’s break down the differences so you can make the best choice for your skin.
First Things First: What’s a Traditional Facial?
Traditional facials are foundational in skincare and for good reason. They’re designed to cleanse, exfoliate, and nourish the skin through a customized mix of products and techniques.
Most classic facials include:
- Cleansing and exfoliation
- Steam to open pores
- Manual extractions (as needed)
- A mask or serum tailored to your skin type
- Massage for circulation and relaxation
- Moisturizer + SPF
Facials are a great way to relax, reset your skin, and get that immediate post-treatment glow. But the results are typically surface-level and temporary.
So…What Makes a Hydrafacial Different?
Hydrafacial is a more advanced, technology-driven treatment that goes beyond the surface. It’s performed using a specialized medical-grade device that delivers deeper cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration all in one treatment.
And unlike a traditional facial, there’s no manual extraction. That means no discomfort, no redness, and zero downtime.
Here’s what a Hydrafacial includes:
- Vortex cleansing and exfoliation – Uses water and suction to deeply cleanse and remove dead skin cells
- Gentle acid peel – A mild glycolic/salicylic blend to loosen debris in pores
- Automated extractions – Painless suction removes impurities and blackheads
- Intense hydration – Infuses skin with antioxidant-rich serums
- Tailored boosters – Target specific concerns like fine lines, dullness, or hyperpigmentation
The result? Deeply hydrated, refreshed, and brighter skin in about 30–45 minutes. You’ll walk out with a glow you can actually feel and it keeps improving over the next few days.
Which One’s Right for You?
Great question. The answer depends on your skin goals, sensitivity, and how often you treat your skin.
| Goal or Concern | Best Fit |
| First-time skincare treatment | Facial |
| Deep cleansing and glow | Hydrafacial |
| Blackheads and congestion | Hydrafacial |
| Relaxation and pampering | Facial |
| Fine lines and dull texture | Hydrafacial |
| Need zero downtime | Hydrafacial |
If you’re looking for a relaxing spa day or haven’t had a facial in years, a traditional treatment might be a great place to start. But if you want serious results with no redness, no irritation, and longer-lasting impact, Hydrafacial is a standout choice.
Why We Love Hydrafacial at IFFH
At the Institute for Functional Health, we’re all about treating the whole you inside and out. And we love Hydrafacial because it checks all the boxes: non-invasive, clinically backed, instantly gratifying, and fully customizable.
It’s a great option for anyone looking to refresh their skin, from first-timers to frequent flyers, busy professionals to self-care seekers. Whether you’re prepping for an event or just want your glow back, Hydrafacial delivers results you can feel immediately.
Because when your skin feels healthy, everything else feels a little more aligned.
Your Skin, Your Call
Whether you choose a classic facial or go all-in on a Hydrafacial, what matters most is that your skin gets the attention it deserves.
Still unsure? We offer personalized Skin Discovery Days to help you figure out what treatment is best for your skin type, lifestyle, and goals.Ready to see the difference for yourself? Book your Hydrafacial today.
