Introduction
HydraFacial is a favorite treatment that celebs and skin care professionals swear by. It gives your skin a deep cleaning by removing dirt and hydrating all in one go. Best of all? It is good for just about every skin type.
In this guide, we will take you through the 10 vital steps that make up a HydraFacial treatment, what each does and how the entire system works together to give your skin that just stepped out of the spa glow.
What is a HydraFacial?
HydraFacial is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that involves a machine smoothing the skin off your face and pumping in special vitamins, peptides and hyaluronic acid to hydrate your complexion. It is powered by a clever ‘vortext’ suction and infusion system that takes out dirt and dead skin cells, and adds moisturising and anti-ageing ingredients in.
It is gentle, customisable, and ideal for those with dry, oily, sensitive and even mature skin. You can learn more about the science behind it at our HydraFacial London website.
Overview of HydraFacial Steps
A HydraFacial can have anywhere from 6 to 10 steps, depending on which one you opt for. The most deluxe option is the Platinum HydraFacial, which comes with add-ons like LED light therapy and lymphatic drainage. Below, we listed the full 10-step version for maximum glow and skin health.
The 10 Essential HydraFacial Steps
- Step 1: Deep cleansing and lymphatic drainage
The process starts with a mild cleansing and mild suction to drain some of your toxins through your lymphatic system. This will deflate any puffiness and help prepare your skin.
Why it matters: It acts as a detox for your skin and increases blood circulation for a healthy glow.
- Step 2: Gentle exfoliation and skin resurfacing
A serum exfoliant is spread on to remove dead cells and unblock your skin’s surface.
Why it matters: It makes your skin nice and smooth and allows the rest of the treatment to absorb better.
- Step 3: Glycolic and salicylic acid peel
Next step is a mild peel made with glycolic and salicylic acid. It softens your plug without making your skin peel or turn red.
Why it matters: This unclogs deep in your pores and gives your skin a texture upgrade. Read more about Chemical Peels.
- Step 4: Painless extractions with vacuum technology
A vacuum cleaner tool suctions away blackheads, oil and debris, there is no squeezing necessary.
Why it matters: Open pores lead to less breakouts and smoother skin.
- Step 5: Intense hydration infusion
Your skin is now ready to absorb moisture. A hyaluronic acid rich serum is also applied to extra hydrate your skin.
Why it matters: Skin that is hydrated looks fuller, softer and younger.
- Step 6: LED light therapy (Blue/Red Light)
The mask is equipped with red or blue LED lights to address different skin concerns.
- To reduce acne and bacteria, blue light is best.
- Red light stimulates collagen production and decreases redness.
Why it matters: Light therapy soothes your skin and helps it heal.
- Step 7: Custom booster serum application
Your therapist will apply a booster serum tailored to your complexion. It could help bring brightness, soothe redness, plump fine lines or even skin tone.
Why it matters: These boosters enhance the treatment by making it more personalised and more effective.
- Step 8: Antioxidant and peptide infusion
Antioxidants and peptides are added into the mix to help protect your skin from pollution and assist with collagen.
Why it matters: It firms your skin and helps it to stay young looking for a longer period..
- Step 9: Moisturiser and skin barrier protection
A soothing moisturiser is then applied to help seal in moisture and soothe your skin post treatment.
Why it matters: This leaves your skin soft, balanced and protected.
- Step 10: SPF application and aftercare guidance
A final layer of broad-spectrum SPF shields your skin. You will also receive simple aftercare instructions to help maintain your glow.
Why it matters: New skin is more sensitive to sun that is why SPF is a must. Read Cancer Research UK’s sun safety guidelines.
Benefits of HydraFacial
- Smooth, glowing skin right away
- Deeply cleansed and hydrated
- Clearer pores and fewer breakouts
- Reduced fine lines and wrinkles
- Works on all skin types
- No irritation or downtime
Effective & professional doctor-led HydraFacial at our central London clinic
Verified Before & After
Verified Before & After
Who is a Good Candidate for HydraFacial?
HydraFacial is great for:
- Dry or dull skin
- Oily or acne-prone skin
- Fine lines or ageing skin
- Uneven tone or texture
- Sensitive skin
- It’s even safe for people with rosacea (consult your therapist first).
How Often Should You Have a HydraFacial?
- For best results: Every 4 weeks
- For maintenance: Every 4–6 weeks
- Before special events: Book 3–5 days before
Want a custom treatment plan? Book in with Harley Street Skin Clinic.
Conclusion
The 10 steps used during a HydraFacial combine to give your skin a deep clean and a major dose of hydration. Whether you are getting ready for a special occasion or just feel like you are in need of some ultra smooth skin, this treatment will give you long lasting results you can see and feel.
Ready to treat your skin? Schedule an appointment for your HydraFacial at Harley Street Skin Clinic and benefit from specialist treatment in a professional environment.
How Each Step Enhances Your Skin
Every step of a HydraFacial is designed to enhance your skin in a targeted manner:
- Lymphatic drainage lessens puffiness and detoxes your skin.
- Exfoliation helps shed dead cells and even texture.
- Acid Peeling is delicate, cleanses pores and lightens the tone.
- Extractions remove blackheads and excess oil without harming the skin.
- Hydration Infusion increases the moisturising power of skin to give it a fresh and plump look.
- LED Light Therapy is for acne or anti-ageing.
- Booster serums also individually address specific concerns like fine lines or pigmentation.
- Antioxidants and peptides shield against pollutants and help support firm skin.
- Moisturiser locks all the good stuff and calms your skin.
- SPF protects your skin from damaging UV rays and guards against damage.
Each step of the process is progressive, leaving you with clear, sleek, and glowing skin after just one round session.
HydraFacial Before and After Care Tips
Before Your HydraFacial:
- Stay away from retinol or strong acids for 48 hours.
- No waxing, laser or aggressive facials a few days in advance.
- If you have any skin issues, such as eczema or cold sores, make sure to notify your provider.
After Your HydraFacial:
- Keep out of hot showers, steam rooms and sweaty workouts for 24 hours.
- Avoid exfoliants or active ingredients (like AHAs or retinoids) for a few days.
- Apply SPF every day to safeguard your skin.
- Keep your skin clean and moisturised with gentle skincare products.
You will walk out glowing after your treatment, you just have to maintain it so it lasts longer.
Combining HydraFacial with Other Aesthetic Treatments
HydraFacial complements other treatments for best possible results:
- Microneedling: Ideal for deeper rejuvenation and treating texture and scarring.
- LED Light Therapy: Add on to sooth inflammation and enhance healing.
- Chemical Peels: Alternating with HydraFacial sessions to focus on pigmentation or acne.
- Injectables: Like Botox or fillers, it can help prepare the skin for better results.
Be sure to always discuss the treatment order that is best and when to apply them in the day or night to avoid irritation.
FAQs
- How many steps are in a HydraFacial?
There are 6 in the original, and 10 in the Platinum HydraFacial.
- What does each step do?
Each one cleans, exfoliates, hydrates or protects your skin in order that it may be healthier and glowier.
- Is HydraFacial safe for sensitive skin?
Yes and it is one of the mildest treatments around.
- How often should I get one?
You probably only need once a month for best results.
- Are there any side effects?
There is usually no downtime. You may appear a bit pink for a couple of hours.
- What’s the difference between 6-step and 10-step?
The 10-step features additional treatments such as LED therapy and booster serums.
- Can I combine HydraFacial with other treatments?
Yes. Always ask your practitioner to combine it with microneedling or LED facials.
Reserve a hydrafacial appointment
One of our experts will be more than happy to answer any questions you have.
Book AppointmentMaura Bancroft
★★★★★
Dr Kahn was very helpful and explained the treatment process thoroughly. I would highly recommend!
6th August 2025
Caitlin Evans
★★★★★
Great experience as always and very efficient
6th August 2025
Saba Khan
★★★★★
It's been 6 months since I am visiting them. Friendly welcoming staff, will help you out what ever you need.
13th August 2025