Aquafacial vs Hydrafacial: Benefits, Results, and Which to Choose

Both AquaFacial and HydraFacial are professional skincare treatments that use hydradermabrasion, a combination of gentle exfoliation and infusion of hydrating serums to deeply cleanse and nourish the skin. 

They’re often recommended for people dealing with dryness, texture issues, various skin concerns, acne-prone skin, and early signs of aging.

But while the results may seem similar at first glance, there are important distinctions in how these treatments are delivered, what advanced technologies are used, and how customizable the experience is. 

Aquafacial vs. Hydrafacial: What’s the Difference?

Both treatments work on the same basic principle: cleanse, exfoliate, extract, and hydrate the skin. But there are key differences in technique, tools, and branding that set them apart. 

This makes the choice between Aquafacial and Hydrafacial a personal decision based on individual needs and specific skin concerns.

Aquafacial and Hydrafacial offer distinct paths to clearer, more radiant skin. If you want a customized skincare experience with expert adjustments based on your skin type and concerns, AquaFacial might be your match. 

If you’re into a branded, standardized approach with well-known products, HydraFacial treatment may be for you.

What Is AquaFacial?

AquaFacial is a modern facial treatment that combines deep cleansing and hydration, exfoliation process, and infusion of nourishing serums into one relaxing multi-step session. At Express Med Spa, our providers use a professional-grade AquaFacial device that gently removes impurities, unclogs pores, and delivers skin-boosting ingredients like antioxidants and peptides.

It’s a fully customizable treatment, meaning your provider can adjust the type of serums used and suction levels based on your individual needs—whether you’re oily, dry, sensitive, or breaking out.

Benefits of AquaFacial

According to our licensed Nurse Practitioners at Express Med Spa, AquaFacial offers results clients can see and feel immediately, such as:

• Deep hydration and nourishment for dry or dehydrated skin
  
• Improved skin texture and skin tone
  
• Smoother fine lines and early wrinkles
  
• Pore purification—great for blackheads and acne-prone skin
  
• No downtime, redness, or irritation
  
• Safe for all skin types, including sensitive and mature skin
  

If you’re prepping for a big event or just need a clean face and radiant refresh, an AquaFacial gives you that healthy glow finish without any recovery time.

AquaFacial Price

At Express Med Spa, AquaFacial treatments start at $150 per treatment session, making it one of the most accessible facial treatment options available. We also offer discounted packages and promotions throughout the year, so you can stay consistent with your skin health goals.

For best results, we recommend getting an AquaFacial every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your skin’s condition. If you’re dealing with acne or texture issues, you might start with a series of three treatments, spaced closely together to combine regular AquaFacial treatments into your skincare routine.

What Is HydraFacial?

HydraFacial is a branded non-invasive treatment developed by The HydraFacial Company. It’s also a hydradermabrasion procedure, but it uses patented Vortex-Fusion technology to remove impurities, exfoliate, and infuse the skin with proprietary nourishing serums like Hydrafacial’s Antiox+ and Beta-HD.

HydraFacials are available only through certified providers, and each step is standardized, so the experience is consistent across clinics.

Benefits of HydraFacial

HydraFacial is well-known and widely used because of its clinical-grade results, offering:

• Deep pore cleansing and hydration
  
• Hydration and improved skin elasticity
  
• Reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage
  
• Targeted solutions for acne, hyperpigmentation, and specific skin concerns
  
• Instant results with no downtime
  

The HydraFacial treatment system includes optional boosters for skin concerns, such as growth factors, vitamin C, or brightening agents.

HydraFacial Price

HydraFacial costs vary by location but generally start around $200–$250 per treatment session, with advanced boosters or add-ons costing more. Because it’s a branded treatment using HydraFacial machines, pricing tends to stay on the premium end.

Which One Should You Choose?

Aquafacial and Hydrafacial are similar, but they offer distinct approaches to skincare. Choosing between the two depends on what matters most to you: customization, results, pricing, and how you respond to specific ingredients and steps.

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

Choose AquaFacial if…

• You want a cost-effective yet highly effective facial treatment
  
• You prefer a customized skincare experience tailored by your esthetician
  
• You’re looking for a natural glow and deep hydration
  
• You’re new to facials and want a gentle, non-invasive treatment
  
• You want to work with a trusted team like the experts at Express Med Spa
  

Choose HydraFacial if…

• You want a branded, consistent treatment experience
  
• You’re interested in specific boosters to reduce fine lines or target pigmentation
  
• You’re willing to invest a bit more for a premium option
  
• You’re already familiar with the HydraFacial treatment brand and love their products
  

Expert Insight: If you’re mostly focused on hydration, clogged pores, and overall skin clarity, either facial vs facial option can help. But if you’re seeking a more flexible treatment plan, AquaFacial allows your provider to adjust every step to address your skin type and concerns.\

FAQs

Are AquaFacial and HydraFacial the same?

Not exactly. While both treatments are non-invasive, use advanced technologies, and share a similar exfoliation process, there is a clear difference between AquaFacial and HydraFacial. HydraFacial is a patented brand with proprietary equipment, whereas AquaFacial is a more flexible, customized skincare experience offered by providers like Express Med Spa.

Discover the full benefits of our AquaFacial treatments and see why clients choose them for radiant, refreshed skin.

Is AquaFacial worth it?

Yes, especially if you’re looking for visible results after a single treatment without breaking the bank. Clients at Express Med Spa consistently see improvement in hydration, texture, and clarity—even after their first session. The multi-step approach allows for deep cleansing, targeted treatment, and enhanced results.

Can AquaFacials treat acne?

Absolutely. Aqua peel technology in AquaFacials gently exfoliates, helps clear out clogged pores, and infuses acne-fighting ingredients to target specific skin concerns. Many of our clients with mild to moderate acne notice fewer breakouts and smoother skin with regular treatments.

How often should I get an AquaFacial or HydraFacial?

Both treatments are best done every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your skin concerns. Whether you choose AquaFacial or HydraFacial, consistency is key for maintaining that radiant, healthy skin glow.

Tired of Dull, Dehydrated Skin That Just Won’t Glow?

If you’ve been layering serums, switching products, and still not seeing real skin improvements, it might be time to go deeper. Both AquaFacial and HydraFacial offer distinct paths to clearer, more hydrated skin that go beyond surface fixes.

At Express Med Spa, our AquaFacial treatments are designed to target various skin concerns, from dullness to congestion, using a flexible, multi-step process that delivers real results. Whether you’re battling breakouts, tired-looking skin, or stubborn dryness, we’ll help you restore balance and confidence—with treatments that are customized, gentle, and results-driven.

Book your AquaFacial today at one of our Mount Greenwood, Chicago locations and experience the difference between AquaFacial vs Hydrafacial firsthand.

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