The Complete Guide to
HydraFacial, Aqua Peel & Hydrodermabrasion

A HydraFacial is a non-invasive skin treatment that uses patented Vortex-Fusion technology to cleanse, extract, and hydrate the skin in three steps. It combines water-based exfoliation with serum infusion and vacuum suction to remove dead skin cells and impurities while delivering moisturizing ingredients. The treatment takes 30-60 minutes with zero downtime. Over 2 million HydraFacial treatments are performed annually worldwide.

HydraFacial treatment costs vary significantly by region. In the USA, expect $150-$350 (average $206). In the UK, prices range from £99-£415. In Germany, €179-€299. In Dubai, AED 500-1,500 ($136-$408). In Turkey, $100-$300. In Seoul, Aqua Peel treatments cost as little as $24-$75. Prices depend on treatment tier (Signature, Deluxe, or Platinum), booster add-ons ($40-$100 each), and clinic location.

HydraFacial is a specific trademarked brand by BeautyHealth using patented Vortex-Fusion technology with proprietary solutions ($35-$50 per treatment in consumables). Aqua Peel is a generic term popular in Korea and Asia for similar hydrodermabrasion treatments using generic AS1/SA2/AO3 solutions ($1-$5 per treatment). Both achieve similar results: deep cleansing, extraction, and hydration. The main differences are brand prestige, solution quality control, and cost.

Results vary by benefit type: the immediate glow lasts 5-7 days, improved hydration and skin tone last up to 2 weeks, and deeper benefits like reduced pore size and improved texture can last 4-6 weeks. Clinical studies show lasting improvements in hydration and skin clarity for up to 8 weeks. For optimal and cumulative results, treatments are recommended every 4-6 weeks. Many clinics offer monthly memberships ($175-$325/month) for 15-20% savings.

According to patient data, 95% rate HydraFacial as "Worth It" on RealSelf across 3,252 providers, with 96% overall satisfaction from 1,694 ratings and 86% giving 5-star reviews. Clinical studies show 100% of participants saw improvement in acne studies. However, the glow is temporary (5-7 days), ongoing monthly treatments are recommended ($150-$350 each), and it's not suitable for rosacea, eczema, or compromised skin barriers. For budget-conscious patients, generic "Aqua Peel" treatments offer similar results at 40-60% lower cost.

Top alternatives include: DiamondGlow (by Allergan, diamond-tip technology, treats face and body), OxyGeneo/Geneo (by Pollogen, CO2 oxygenation, results last 4-6 weeks vs HydraFacial's 7 days), JetPeel (jet pressure technology, delivers ingredients 4mm deep), and mid-tier professional devices from Zemits ($3,000-$8,000), Korean brands ($2,000-$5,000), or Chinese OEM manufacturers ($500-$3,000). For home use, the BeautyBio GLOfacial ($199) is the most popular consumer option.

HydraFacial uses proprietary solutions: Activ-4 (glucosamine, yeast extract for cleansing), GlySal (glycolic + salicylic acid for exfoliation), and Beta-HD (salicylic acid + honey for hydration). Premium boosters include Britenol (brightening), DermaBuilder (peptides), and partner serums from ZO Skin Health, Murad, and Alastin. Generic alternatives use the AS1/SA2/AO3 system: AS1 (lactic acid, hyaluronic acid), SA2 (salicylic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide), AO3 (aloe vera, vitamin C, vitamin E). Generic solutions cost $0.10-$5 per treatment vs $35-$50 for official HydraFacial consumables.

Yes, several at-home hydrodermabrasion devices exist. The most popular is the BeautyBio GLOfacial ($199), which uses similar vortex suction technology. The Microderm GLO ($120) offers diamond microdermabrasion with 384,000+ users. Portable Aquafacial Mini devices ($300-$600) offer multiple functions. Home devices use lower power for safety and generic OTC solutions. Results are more subtle than professional treatments — best for maintenance between professional sessions rather than replacement.

Professional device costs range widely: HydraFacial Syndeo $30,000-$90,000, DiamondGlow $2,246-$12,200, OxyGeneo $10,000-$25,000, Zemits $3,000-$8,000, Korean brands $2,000-$5,000, Chinese OEM devices $500-$3,000. At 10 treatments per week charging $200, a $20,000 HydraFacial device breaks even in ~19 weeks. A $2,500 generic device at $120/treatment breaks even in ~2.3 weeks. Annual profit potential: $72,000-$117,000 at 50 treatments per month.

HydraFacial is generally safe for most skin types including oily, dry, combination, and mature skin. The treatment can be customized with different serums for specific concerns. However, it is not recommended for: active rosacea flares, eczema, dermatitis, compromised skin barriers, sunburned skin, or active herpes simplex. Patients using retinoids or strong chemical exfoliants should wait 48 hours before treatment. Always consult with a dermatologist if you have any skin conditions.