What is the difference between spa facials and medical facials?
On the surface, medical spas and day spas appear to be very similar, but they are not! Many people mix the two up or believe they are the same thing. It's a common misconception that when you go to a day spa, you're getting the same treatment as if you went to a medical spa.
However, the results of medical facials are not the same as those of a regular spa facial.
Medical facials are the third most common non-invasive cosmetic procedure performed in North America, with over 1.5 million procedures performed each year.
Unlike medical facials, a day spa facial will feel good and you’ll feel great afterward, but it doesn’t have the same long-lasting effects as a medical facial.
There are a few differences between medical and spa facials that you should be aware of in order to determine which option is best for you.
In this blog post, we'll discuss the differences between the two and why you might need to see a medical professional to get the results you want.
Day Spa Results Are Only Temporary
Going to a day spa to be pampered is always a good idea (hello, relaxation), but the benefits of a day trip to the spa usually end there. Coming out of a spa facial is a fantastic feeling, but it only lasts a couple of days. Your skin will eventually return to its pre-treatment state.
Spa facials are performed by aestheticians and leave you feeling pampered and relaxed. Botanicals, exfoliants, masques, and pleasant-smelling lotions are applied to the face. Often, these facials are followed by an upper-body massage. It's a wonderful experience, but it doesn't produce any long-term results.
Spa facials only treat the epidermis or the skin's surface layer. This layer is extremely tough and shields your skin from the elements. For long-term results, your skin requires more than just pampering.
The Long-Lasting Results of Medical Facials
Medical facials, as opposed to day spa facials, provide long-term results. This is due to the fact that they expose the skin's lower layers. Physical changes to the surface and appearance of the skin can occur by exposing these layers.
In a clinical setting, there are various types of facials available that can target various skin conditions and provide you with specific skin enhancements.
If you're tired of having acne on your face or suffering from painful psoriasis or eczema, a medical facial will provide far more benefits than a spa facial.
Cleanliness and Safety
Your treatments are handled by medical professionals – doctors, nurses, and medical aestheticians – when you visit a medical facility, which means your skin conditions can be treated in a safe and sanitary environment. They must adhere to certain medical standards in their practice, so you can be confident that your visit to an authorized medical spa will be beneficial.
A medical facial can treat acne, Melasma, reduce pore size, wrinkles, and much more – all in a clean and secure environment.
When you have your procedure, there will be an MD on site who will oversee your treatment as it is completed. To ensure your health and safety, the medical aestheticians and nurses performing your treatments must adhere to strict protocols.
Medical Facials Treat Multiple Conditions
Day spas are one of the best stress-relieving options and can provide you with the ideal relaxing getaway. Medical spas, on the other hand, have a variety of equipment that can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions and improve your skin's overall vitality.
In a medical setting, there are numerous types of skin rejuvenation procedures available. These procedures are as follows:
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are frequently advertised in day spas, but they are quite weak in comparison to those available in medical settings. A medical-grade chemical peel is used to treat acne and Melasma, as well as to reduce pore size, uneven pigmentation, and wrinkles.
Medical Microdermabrasion
This isn't like the over-the-counter exfoliants you can get at the drugstore. Medical microdermabrasion is a procedure that can only be performed by trained and certified medical professionals.
It's a painless procedure that can help anyone suffering from acne, scarring, uneven pigmentation, wrinkles, or fine lines.
IPL Photo facial
As we age, our bodies' collagen production slows, causing fine lines and wrinkles to appear. IPL photo facial treatment stimulates collagen production by using intense light pulses directed into the cells.
This painless procedure helps to reduce redness, wrinkles, fine lines, uneven pigmentation, sun damage, and rosacea.
Blu-U Photodynamic Treatment
This treatment uses a novel blue light to eliminate Propionibacterium, the bacteria that causes acne. You should have clear acne-free skin two weeks after this treatment.
Medical Facials
In day spas, medical facials (dermatologist facials) are not performed. Medical facial products can only be purchased by a medical professional, and your practitioner will combine all of the necessary products to ensure that the treatment meets all of your needs.
Fractora and Micro-needling
The Vampire Facial, also known as Fractora and Micro-needling, is a minimally invasive facelift that has revolutionized facials.
It's an advanced technique that is extremely effective for tightening skin and resurfacing the face. With this treatment, you'll notice a noticeable improvement in your skin.
The Major Difference Between the Products
After your facial, you'll often be able to purchase products that smell absolutely divine at day spas. They feel nice on the skin and provide a luxurious feeling at home, but they have no long-term benefits for your skin.
You can buy products after a medical facial, but they won't make a noticeable difference in the health of your skin. These clinical products have undergone extensive research and are scientifically proven to improve the appearance of your skin.
At the end of the day, it all comes down to your personal needs.
A day spa facial is ideal if you want to take a relaxing break while also giving your face a quick refresh.
However, if you have an irritating skin condition or want younger-looking skin, a medical facial is recommended.
In conclusion, if you want to learn more about medical facials and other skin treatments, contact your skin care professional or dermatologist for a free consultation.