Will a Hydrafacial Make Me Break Out?
A hydrafacial is a popular skin resurfacing treatment that can be beneficial for many skin types. However, one common concern is whether the treatment could make breakouts and acne worse instead of improving your complexion.
How Does a Hydrafacial Work?
A hydrafacial uses a special device with a vacuum-like attachment that gently exfoliates and extracts impurities from the skin. The device applies a combination of cleansing solutions with ingredients like glycerin, salicylic acid, and antioxidants to moisturize and refresh the skin.
Could a Hydrafacial Cause Breakouts?
There are a few reasons why some people experience breakouts or clogged pores after a hydrafacial treatment:
- Residue or debris re-enters pores after extraction
- Skin becomes irritated from friction or pressure
- Solutions trigger hormonal, inflammatory or oil responses
- Leftover dirt and oil get trapped underneath new skin
Tips to Prevent Breakouts After a Hydrafacial
To help avoid potential breakouts after your treatment:
- Ask about sensitive skin protocols to minimize irritation
- Shower to rinse away solution residue after appointment
- Use a gentle cleanser and oil-free products several days
- Don't have extractions if you have active breakouts
- Stay well hydrated and moisturized
Best Hydrafacial Approach If You're Acne-Prone
If you're already acne-prone, be cautious about strong chemical peels or harsh microdermabrasion. A more soothing hydrafacial approach may work better for you.
Look for a Lymphatic Option
A lymphatic hydrafacial is a variation focused on improving circulation and drainage. This can enhance toxin and waste removal from cells to prevent clogs and future breakouts.
Request Gentle Solutions
Ask your provider to evaluate any sensitivities and customize soothing solutions. Some options like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and red algae complex hydrate skin gently without heavy oils.
Ask About Blue Light Therapy
Many hydrafacial devices offer built-in blue LED light therapy. The light exposure helps eliminate acne-causing bacteria deep in pores to calm inflammation.
Avoid Harsh Extraction
If you have inflammatory acne, skip the vortex extraction step, as pulling at delicate congested pores could worsen breakouts. Focus instead on the hydrating and nutrient benefits.
What to Expect After Your Hydrafacial Session
It’s common for skin to look slightly red or feel sensitive for the first 24 hours after hydrafacial treatment. Other short-term effects can include:
- Mild swelling or puffiness
- Temporary dryness or peeling
- Pinkish tinge for 1-3 days
- Resurfacing of small whiteheads
Tips for Continued Clear Skin
To keep your glow without breakouts after a hydrafacial:
- Use a daily glycolic cleanser for exfoliation
- Ease in retinoids to renew skin over 2-4 weeks
- Take oral supplements like zinc or evening primrose
- Drink 64+ ounces water daily
- Get 7-9 hours sleep per night
Signs of Irritation Requiring Treatment Adjustments
If you experience reactions like these, adjust aftercare or contact your provider:
- Itchy, painful redness lasting over 48 hours
- Severe acne flare up of 20+ inflamed lesions
- Skin burning sensation
- No improvement of blackheads after 10 days
- Excess skin dryness, peeling or flaking
Preventing Future Breakouts After Your Hydrafacial
Book Follow Up Treatments
Consistency is key for clear skin. Most providers recommend a hydrafacial every 4 weeks to maintain results and hydration as well as treat any underlying acne causes.
Incorporate Acne-Fighting Ingredients
Use cleansers, serums or spot treatments with acne helpers like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or tea tree oil to keep pores clear.
Protect Skin from the Elements
Continue safeguarding your skin's barrier with mineral SPF 30+ sunscreen when outdoors and hydrating plant-based moisturizers.
Adjust Lifestyle Factors
Drink more water, curb excess sugar, manage stress levels, and change pillowcases frequently to help balance hormones, oil production, and bacteria behind recurring breakouts.
While hydrafacials don't guarantee perfectly clear skin for everyone, they can greatly improve texture, radiance and congestion. By tailoring solutions to your sensitivities and skin goals, you can enjoy the rejuvenating benefits without the worry of post-treatment breakouts.
FAQs
Can a hydrafacial cause acne breakouts?
Yes, some people do experience breakouts after a hydrafacial treatment. The suction, solutions, and friction involved can clog pores, trigger oil production, irritate skin and worsen existing acne.
How can I prevent breakouts after my hydrafacial?
Avoid harsh extraction, request gentle solutions suited for sensitivity, thoroughly rinse residue after your appointment, use oil-free products for a few days, and ask about add-on blue light therapy to clean pores and calm inflammation.
What should I do if the hydrafacial caused more acne?
If you experience a severe flare up of 20+ inflamed lesions, burning, peeling and itching persisting longer than 48 hours, or no improvement in congestion after 10 days, call your provider to adjust aftercare recommendations and discuss alternative treatments.
What aftercare prevents future breakouts?
Getting regular hydrafacials every 4 weeks, using acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid daily, drinking lots of water, wearing sun protection outdoors, changing pillowcases frequently and managing stress can help prevent recurring breakouts.
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.
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