Understanding Your Facial Options: A Side-by-Side Guide
If you’re exploring facials in Loveland, you’ve probably noticed the menu can feel overwhelming. HydraFacial, chemical peels, microneedling, dermaplaning—each promises glowing skin, but they work in very different ways. At 18 Spa, we believe the right facial starts with understanding what each treatment actually does, how long results last, and what your skin will need afterward.
This guide breaks down the most popular medical-grade facials so you can walk into your consultation confident and informed.
HydraFacial: The Gentle Multi-Tasker
What it does:
HydraFacial uses a patented vortex-fusion device to cleanse, exfoliate, extract, and hydrate in one session. Think of it as a vacuum that removes debris while simultaneously infusing serums tailored to your skin type—antioxidants, peptides, or hyaluronic acid.
Best for:
- Dull, dehydrated skin
- Mild congestion or enlarged pores
- Pre-event glow (weddings, photos)
- Sensitive skin that can’t tolerate aggressive peels
What to expect:
- Session time: 30–45 minutes
- Downtime: None. You may see mild pinkness for 1–2 hours.
- Results: Immediate radiance and plumpness; effects peak within 5–7 days
- Frequency: Monthly for maintenance; every 2 weeks if targeting specific concerns
Aftercare:
Wear SPF 30+ daily. Avoid retinoids for 24 hours. You can apply makeup immediately.
Cost range:
Typically $175–$250 per session in Northern Colorado.
Chemical Peels: Controlled Exfoliation for Texture + Tone
What it does:
A chemical peel applies a solution—glycolic, salicylic, lactic, or TCA—to remove damaged outer layers and stimulate cell turnover. Depth varies: superficial peels refresh; medium peels address pigmentation and fine lines.
Best for:
- Sun damage and age spots
- Acne scars and active breakouts (salicylic peels)
- Fine lines and rough texture
- Melasma (with a series of treatments)
What to expect:
- Session time: 30–60 minutes
- Downtime: Superficial peels = 2–3 days of light flaking. Medium peels = 5–7 days of visible peeling.
- Results: Gradual improvement over 7–14 days as new skin emerges
- Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks for a series of 3–6 treatments
Aftercare:
No picking or scrubbing. Use a gentle cleanser and rich moisturizer. SPF is non-negotiable—your new skin is vulnerable to UV damage. Avoid retinoids and acids for one week.
Cost range:
$100–$300 per peel, depending on strength and formula.
Microneedling: Collagen Induction for Long-Term Repair
What it does:
Microneedling uses fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This triggers your body’s wound-healing response, boosting collagen and elastin production over the following weeks.
Best for:
- Acne scars and textured skin
- Fine lines and early signs of aging
- Large pores
- Stretch marks (on body)
What to expect:
- Session time: 45–60 minutes (includes numbing cream)
- Downtime: 24–48 hours of redness and mild swelling (like a sunburn). Flaking may occur days 3–5.
- Results: Subtle at first; collagen remodeling continues for 4–6 weeks. Best results after 3–4 sessions.
- Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks
Aftercare:
Keep skin clean and moisturized. Avoid makeup for 24 hours. No gym, sauna, or swimming for 48 hours. SPF is critical. Skip active ingredients (retinol, acids, vitamin C) for 3–5 days.
Cost range:
$250–$400 per session in the Loveland area.
Dermaplaning: Instant Smoothness with Zero Downtime
What it does:
A sterile surgical blade gently scrapes away dead skin cells and vellus hair (peach fuzz). It’s purely mechanical exfoliation—no chemicals, no needles.
Best for:
- Dull, rough texture
- Makeup application issues (foundation clings to dry patches)
- Enhancing product absorption
- Pairing with other treatments (often done before a HydraFacial or peel)
What to expect:
- Session time: 30–45 minutes
- Downtime: None. Skin may feel tight for a few hours.
- Results: Immediate smoothness and glow
- Frequency: Every 3–4 weeks (matches your skin’s natural turnover cycle)
Aftercare:
SPF daily. Avoid direct sun exposure for 48 hours. Skip exfoliating products for 2–3 days. Hair grows back at the same rate and texture—it does not come back thicker or darker.
Cost range:
$75–$150 per session.
How to Choose the Right Facial for Your Goals
Still unsure? Here’s a quick decision framework:
| Your Priority | Start Here |
|---|---|
| Immediate glow, no downtime | HydraFacial or Dermaplaning |
| Active acne or breakouts | Salicylic chemical peel |
| Sun damage, dark spots | Glycolic or TCA peel (series) |
| Acne scars, deep texture | Microneedling (series) |
| Fine lines, early aging | Microneedling or medium-depth peel |
| Sensitive skin | HydraFacial |
You can also layer treatments. Many clients in Northern Colorado start with dermaplaning to prep the skin, then follow with a HydraFacial or light peel for deeper results.
What Happens During Your Consultation
At your first visit, an RN will assess your skin type, concerns, and medical history. We’ll discuss:
- Your goals (maintenance vs. correction)
- Realistic timelines (one session vs. a series)
- Downtime you can accommodate
- Budget and frequency
We never push a treatment. If your skin isn’t ready—say, you’re using prescription retinoids or have active cold sores—we’ll adjust the plan or reschedule.
You’ll leave with a written aftercare sheet and direct contact info if questions come up during healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I combine facials in one visit?
Yes, with guidance. Dermaplaning + HydraFacial is a popular pairing. However, microneedling and chemical peels should not be done together—both create controlled injury, and layering them increases risk of irritation or hyperpigmentation. Your RN will map out a safe sequence.
How do I know if I need a series or just one treatment?
One-off facials (HydraFacial, dermaplaning) deliver immediate but temporary results—great for events or maintenance. Corrective goals (fading scars, reversing sun damage, building collagen) require a series of 3–6 treatments spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Think of it like strength training: consistency compounds results.
Will my skin purge after a facial?
Possibly, especially after deep-cleansing treatments like HydraFacial or salicylic peels. “Purging” means clogged pores surface faster than usual—it’s temporary (7–10 days) and a sign the treatment is working. True breakouts (new pimples in areas you don’t normally break out) are rare but can happen if tools aren’t sterile or products irritate your skin. Always book with licensed professionals.
Ready to Find Your Best Facial?
The right facial isn’t about trends—it’s about matching treatment to your skin’s current needs and your real-world schedule. Whether you want a quick refresh or a multi-month plan to fade years of sun damage, you deserve clear answers before you book.
Explore our full menu of facials and other medical-grade treatments, or schedule a complimentary consultation to build your personalized plan. Our RN-led team in Loveland is here to guide you every step of the way.
Book your appointment today and take the first step toward skin you feel confident in.
