BEAUTY
HydraFacial: The Ultra-complete Skincare Everyone is Going Crazy Over
Justine Feutry - Madame Figaro
14-June-2021
More than a simple non-invasive classic facial treatment with mask and exfoliation, the HydraFacial is the newest obsession everyone is going crazy over lately.
Straight from the United States, the HydraFacial treatment has the intention of revolutionizing the way we take care of our face and skin. Its name already gives some clues about its main objective: to hydrate the skin. But this technique, carried out using a patented machine, goes much further. We discover more with Julia Faure, head of the Mandarin Oriental spa, the first Parisian palace to offer this treatment, and Vanessa Marrapodi, founder of “Skincare Agency”.
A three-step treatment
The HydraFacial treatment, which is based on hydradermabrasion (advanced exfoliation) thanks to its "Vortex" technology, is carried out using a patented machine and is made up of three parts. We start with a deep cleansing that eliminates dead cells: "This phase is the most important because, thanks to this process which works a bit like a skin vacuum cleaner, we go further than a classic cleansing" explains Julia Faure.
Then comes the phase of peeling and extraction (blackheads and whiteheads) to deeply clean the pores: "The glycolic acid softens the tissues, which facilitates the extraction". Continues the spa manager of the Mandarin Oriental. Finally, we finish with a phase of hydration and infusion based on cocktails of hyaluronic acid, anti-oxidants and peptides: a real batch of vitamins that infuse the skin. Then, we can add, as an option, boosters based on active ingredients according to the precise needs of each one: anti-aging, anti-spots, fine lines ... The session can end with an LED skincare treatment, with anti-aging effect. “It is also a treatment that appeals to the young generation because it helps restore radiance. Models do it regularly just before Fashion Week”. Adds the spa manager. It also appeals to teenagers and young adults for the issue of acne with real improvement in skin condition and scars. “In this case, we change the dosage of the peel, which is generally 7% acids and can be increased up to 30% in case of acne, to increase the slight desquamation of the skin”. Explains Vanessa Marrapodi.
A treatment for all skin types and for all ages
The advantage of HydraFacial? It takes only 30 minutes of your precious time. The treatment can then last longer depending on the options chosen.
Other advantages? No downtime. “It is a universal treatment that you can do whether you are a teen or an adult. And it can be done whenever you want without having to worry about your meetings afterwards”, explains the co-founder of Skincare Agency. "Very sensitive skin may have a tiny bit of redness, but it won't last more than 15 minutes”. Adds Julia Faure. Suitable for all skin types (it is simply tricky for pregnant women, as a precaution, but also for people who have just had injections), it can be practiced before going on a vacation or even before a wedding-type event to wake your glow up. It is also favored by men, who appreciate its quick and simple side: “They also like the fact that products and creams are not applied during the treatment”.
Fast, efficient, non-invasive, but with convincing results: this is the recipe for this No. 1 treatment in the United States, as recalled by the one who also headed the spa at the Costes Hotel. “It allows you to have access to cutting-edge technology without necessarily going to a cosmetic clinic. You can have it done on a monthly basis, to ensure glowing skin all year round: "The more you do it, the more your pores are tightened and therefore your skin is brighter" underlines Vanessa Marrapodi.
What about face masks?
If the treatment promises beautiful, smooth and radiant skin, be careful to follow a few hygiene rules to avoid pimples breakouts after a few days. As the pores are open to be cleaned, it is better to avoid touching the skin immediately after the treatment, at the risk of diffusing bacteria. Therefore, do not put on the mask you had beforehand, and get a new and clean one instead.