A Closer Look at Head Resurfacing Machines and Their Skin Benefits
Head resurfacing machines like the HydraFacial are becoming increasingly popular skin treatment options in spas and dermatology offices. But how exactly does this technology work and what skin concerns can it address? Let's take a closer look at the head resurfacing process, benefits, risks, and what to expect.
What is Head Resurfacing?
Head resurfacing is a non-invasive skin treatment that uses a unique hydradermabrasion technology to deeply cleanse, exfoliate, extract, and hydrate the skin. A common device used in head resurfacing is the HydraFacial MD machine.
This machine utilizes a vacuum-like wand with a rotating tip that delivers customized serums and moisturizers to the skin's surface while simultaneously vacuuming away dead skin cells and debris. Some key steps in the HydraFacial treatment include:
- Cleansing and light exfoliation
- Peel solution application
- Extraction of impurities
- Hydrating serum infusion
- Moisturizing mask
- LED light therapy
The entire process takes about 30 minutes and is designed to improve skin health, texture, and appearance.
How a Head Resurfacing Machine Works
A head resurfacing device like the HydraFacial uses vacuum pressure to effectively cleanse away impurities while simultaneously bathing the skin with hydrating serums. Here is an overview of how it works:
- The aesthetician glides the vacuum-like wand over the face with circulating tip attachments.
- Salicylic and glycolic acids loosen dirt and oil.
- The vacuum extracts impurities from pores while also exfoliating.
- Hydrating hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, peptides, etc. infuse into skin.
- LED light therapy helps reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
- Moisturizing jelly mask locks in hydration.
This technology allows deeper product penetration compared to traditional topical application for improved absorption and hydration. The wand tip attachments are also interchangeable for customization across different skin areas.
What are the Benefits of Head Resurfacing Treatments?
When performed by a trained aesthetician, head resurfacing offers many benefits for the skin. Potential results and improvements include:
- Deep cleansing - Vacuum suction extracts dirt, debris, and impurities from pores.
- Exfoliation - Gentle resurfacing sloughs off dead skin cells.
- Reduced acne - Thorough pore cleansing decreases breakouts.
- Smoothing fine lines and wrinkles - Hydrating serums plump up crepey skin.
- Brightening - Improves skin tone, texture, and complexion.
- Minimized pores - Shrinks the appearance of enlarged pores.
- Hydration - Skin is left noticeably dewy and fresh.
- Reduced redness - Soothes inflammation and irritation.
These combined actions reveal glowing, vibrant, and healthy looking skin. Maintenance appointments every 4-6 weeks help maximize results over time.
Who is a Good Candidate for Head Resurfacing?
A head resurfacing treatment like HydraFacial is suitable for most skin types and skin concerns. Potential candidates include those with:
- Oily, congested skin
- Blackheads
- Enlarged pores
- Uneven skin texture
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Dull, lackluster skin
- Dryness and flaking
- Hyperpigmentation
- Acne-prone skin
- Rosacea
Of course, those with sensitive skin should discuss risks with a dermatologist beforehand. Head resurfacing is not recommended for those with severe acne, active infections, cystic lesions, or very inflamed skin.
What Areas of the Body Can Be Treated?
The HydraFacial device is highly versatile and can be used to improve skin texture and appearance almost anywhere on the body including:
- Face
- Neck
- Chest
- Back and shoulders
- Hands
- Arms
- Legs
- Feet
Different tip sizes allow careful treatment around the delicate eye and lip areas. Providers can tailor sessions to target problem areas for each client.
What is the Recommended Treatment Schedule?
For best results, an initial series of 4-6 HydraFacial treatments every 2-4 weeks is recommended. Thereafter, maintenance visits every 4-6 weeks help sustain improvements long-term.
Special packages or membership plans at some med spas offer discounted rates for monthly HydraFacial sessions to encourage regular treatments. Consistency is key to reveal the healthy, glowing skin underneath.
Are There Any Potential Side Effects or Risks?
When performed properly by an experienced provider, HydraFacial treatments come with minimal risks. However, some potential side effects may include:
- Mild redness - Resolves within a few hours
- Temporary dryness - Easily improved with moisturizer
- Minor irritation - Uncommon and usually mild
- Bruising - More likely if blood thinners are used
To avoid complications, discuss medical history openly with your provider before treatment. They can tailor methods and customize serum solutions to your skin type and needs.
How Much Does Head Resurfacing Cost?
The average cost for a single HydraFacial treatment is between $150-$300 per session depending on your provider and location. Larger cities or more upscale medical spas tend to charge higher prices.
Many spas run initial specials or packages at $99-$150 per treatment to attract new clients. Receiving regular monthly HydraFacials can reduce the per-treatment cost significantly.
While not covered by insurance, some elect to pay for head resurfacing from their FSA or HSA health savings accounts. Be sure to discuss pricing details up front with your chosen provider.
How to Prepare for a Head Resurfacing Session
No extensive pre-treatment preparation is required for a HydraFacial. However, there are a few helpful tips to optimize the experience:
- Avoid wearing makeup to allow for thorough cleanse
- Inform provider of sensitivities, allergies, medications
- Avoid irritating topical products for 1-2 days pre-treatment
- Hydrate well by drinking lots of water
- Arrive with clean skin - wash face morning of appointment
- Allow extra time for numbing if desired
Share any concerns openly with your esthetician or dermatologist beforehand so they can personalize treatment and maximize comfort.
What to Expect During the Session
The HydraFacial treatment involves several relaxing and rejuvenating steps:
- Cleansing of skin - Remove makeup, oils, sunscreen
- Exfoliation - Gentle peel solution loosens dead skin
- Extractions - Vacuum wand removes impurities
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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