Should You Moisturize After a Hydrafacial? Tips for Proper Aftercare

Can You Use Moisturizer After a Hydrafacial Treatment?

The Hydrafacial is a popular facial that deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates the skin. But should you moisturize after this rejuvenating treatment? Heres what you need to know about caring for your skin post-Hydrafacial.

What is the Hydrafacial?

The Hydrafacial is a multi-step facial treatment performed by aestheticians and dermatologists. It uses a wand-like device with serums that deeply cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate the skin. Key steps include:

• Cleansing/Peeling - Glysal peel solution dissolves dead skin cells
• Extraction - Vacuum suction removes impurities
• Hydration - Hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and peptides nourish skin

This facial is designed to improve skin radiance, tone, texture, elasticity, and firmness. Its gentle enough for all skin types and requires no downtime for recovery.

Should You Moisturize After a Hydrafacial?

Yes, its recommended to apply moisturizer after your Hydrafacial treatment. Heres why its an important aftercare step:

• Hydrates skin - Boosts hydration from the humectants in moisturizer
• Locks in serum benefits - Seals in the Hydrafacial serums
• Protects barrier - Guards against moisture loss
• Soothes skin - Calms any irritation from exfoliation

Your skin will be freshly exfoliated and more absorbent after the facial, so its the perfect time to apply moisturizer.

When to Apply Moisturizer

Aim to apply your moisturizer soon after your Hydrafacial while your skin is still dewy and damp. This helps:

• Spread the moisturizer evenly
• Boost hydration while pores are open
• Lock in the results and instantly calm skin

If you need to wait to get home after your treatment, be sure to moisturize within an hour. Dont let your skin dry out and undo all the great benefits!

What Type of Moisturizer to Use

Opt for a gentle, hydrating moisturizer without irritating fragrances or ingredients like:

• Hyaluronic acid - Attracts moisture to the skin
• Ceramides - Repair the skin barrier
• Glycerin - Draws water into the skin
• Jojoba oil - Soothes and moisturizes
• Aloe vera - Calms inflamed skin

Thicker creams and ointments create more occlusion to seal in moisture. Or use a hydrating serum followed by your regular daily moisturizer.

Moisturizer Tips for Skin Type

Tailor your post-facial moisturizer to your skins specific needs:

• Dry skin - Rich cream with ceramides
• Oily/Acne-prone - Gel or oil-free formula
• Sensitive skin - Fragrance-free and calming
• Mature skin - Anti-aging moisturizer with peptides

Ask your esthetician for personalized product recommendations based on your skin type and concerns.

Moisturizing Mist

For an extra hydration boost, you can also spritz your face with a nourishing facial mist after your moisturizer. Look for soothing ingredients like:

• Aloe vera
• Rosewater
• Green tea
• Hyaluronic acid
• Glycerin

The mist will provide an extra layer of hydration and refresh your skin.

Additional Post-Treatment Skin Care

In addition to moisturizer, you may want to avoid certain products or activities after your Hydrafacial:

• No exfoliating for 24 hours
• Avoid retinoids for 1-2 days
• No facials or procedures for one week
• Stay out of sunlight, heat, and cold
• Dont go in chlorinated pools, hot tubs, etc.

This allows your freshly treated skin time to recover and absorb the benefits. Follow your estheticians advice on when to resume your normal skin care regimen.

Results and Benefits

Using moisturizer after your Hydrafacial can help boost and extend the results. Potential benefits include:

• Brighter, glowing skin
• Reduced fine lines and wrinkles
• Smoother skin texture
• Decreased pores
• Firmer, lifted skin
• More even tone
• Hydrated and plump skin

Hydrafacial results are temporary, lasting about 1-4 weeks before needing a repeat treatment. Properly caring for your skin afterwards promotes longer-lasting radiance and renewal.

Hydrafacial Aftercare Regimen

Caring for your skin in the days following your Hydrafacial is just as important as the treatment itself. A complete aftercare regimen includes:

• Moisturizing immediately after treatment and twice daily
• Gentle cleansers only
• Avoiding abrasive scrubs or brushes temporarily
• Applying SPF 30+ daily
• Staying hydrated and eating healthy fats for moisture
• Skipping other facials or procedures for one week

Book your Hydrafacial before a big event so you can pamper your skin after and shine!

How Often Can You Get a Hydrafacial?

Most providers recommend getting a Hydrafacial every 2-4 weeks for the best results. Those with congested skin may benefit from weekly treatments initially. Maintenance facials every 4-6 weeks help maintain glowing skin.

Allow your skin to fully recover for at least a week before your next Hydrafacial or other intensive facial treatments.

At-Home Hydrafacial Aftercare

Continue your Hydrafacial glow at home with these tips:

• Cleanse gently without scrubbing
• Apply antioxidant and hydrating serums
• Use a jade roller or gua sha tool to massage in products
• Hydrate with electrolyte-rich fluids
• Take collagen and vitamin C supplements
• Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
• Get lots of beauty sleep

A healthy lifestyle supports your Hydrafacial results so your skin looks radiant between visits.

Risks and Side Effects

When performed properly, Hydrafacials are very low risk. Possible side effects include:

• Temporary redness
• Minor irritation
• Dry, flaky skin if not moisturized after
• Breakouts as impurities purge (rare)

Serious risks like infection are very uncommon when disposable tips and sanitized equipment are used. Discuss any allergies or skin sensitivities with your provider beforehand.

Who Should Avoid Hydrafacials?

Hydrafacials are not recommended if you have:

• Active acne or rosacea
• Sunburn
• Skin cancer
• Dermatitis
• An upcoming big event soon after

Talk to your dermatologist before getting a Hydrafacial if you have sensitive skin, take acne medication, or have a skin condition.

Cost of Hydrafacials

The average cost of a Hydrafacial is $150-$300 per session depending on your provider and location. Larger cities and upscale spas or derms may charge more. Tipping your esthetician is customary.

Many spas offer prepaid Hydrafacial packages at a discounted per-treatment rate. But be sure you can use all your sessions within the expiry window.

The Bottom Line

Applying moisturizer after your Hydrafacial is highly recommended to boost hydration, soothe skin, and lock in your treatment's benefits. Use a gentle, non-irritating moisturizer right after cleansing and continue diligent aftercare to make your glowing results last.

With the proper prep and follow up, a Hydrafacial can be a safe, effective way to refresh and renew your skin.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.