​

 

WHAT ARE MEDICAL FACIALS?

A medical facial follows the same general steps as a classic spa facial, including cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and hydration. The primary difference between these two treatments is that medical facials are performed in a physician’s office using medical-grade products and tools. The overall results are therefore appear more effective.

Since medical facials are performed within a physician’s office, the skincare professional administering the treatment is able to affect the skin at a deeper level. For example, a low concentration chemical peel may be used during a classic spa facial, whereas high-concentration, unbuffered acids can be used during a medical facial. 

Medical facials are highly customizable and can be tailored to your specific skin needs and concerns. Additional treatment add-ons such a dermaplaning may be incorporated to physically exfoliate the top layer of the skin and enhance the absorption of the chemical peel solution. Medical facials are also an effective complement to in-office treatmentssuch as dermal fillers and laser skin resurfacing. 

 

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR A MEDICAL FACIAL?

Since medical facials are highly customizable, they can effectively address a wide spectrum of skin concerns, making them appropriate for nearly everyone. Your skincare professional will work with you to understand your specific skin needs and will recommend a customized medical facial treatment plan. 

Although medical facials can easily be customized using a variety of tools and products, there are some conditions that may preclude treatment including use of medications that render skin very sensitive. As with any form of facial treatment, certain active ingredients and modalities such as laser resurfacing should be avoided if you are pregnant or have a heart condition. It is important that you discuss with your skincare professional any allergies, skin sensitivity, underlying conditions, or medications being taken prior to receiving a medical facial.

 

WHAT WILL I EXPERIENCE DURING A MEDICAL FACIAL?

A medical facial is generally performed in a physician’s office. During the treatment, your skincare professional will cleanse, steam, exfoliate, and replenish your skin using a combination of modalities such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and dermaplaning. Additional treatments including microcurrent, LED light therapy, ultrasound, intense pulsed light (IPL), radio frequency, or microneedling may also be incorporated. 

Depending on the treatments performed, the facial may last 30 minutes to 1 hour. You may also experience some mild discomfort and downtime. This is contingent upon the concentration of ingredients used and what procedures were performed. After the procedure is completed, it is important that you follow the post-procedure protocol outlined by your skincare professional. This is especially important if your medical facial incorporates treatments that increase your skin’s sensitivity to UV light.

 

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GET A MEDICAL FACIAL?

When and how often to get a medical facial depends on a variety of factors including skin concerns, desired outcome, and the type of treatment performed. If you are looking to improve chronic acne, you may benefit from a series of medical facials spaced 4-6 weeks apart. If you are seeking quick skin rejuvenation to improve radiance prior to a big event, you may benefit from a single medical facial. However, the results are generally more pronounced after a series of treatments. 

Since these facial treatments leverage medical-grade products and tools, it is recommended that they are performed during periods when sun exposure will be limited. This does not necessarily eliminate the summer months, but it is important to be very diligent about sun protection. 

 

WHERE SHOULD I GET A MEDICAL FACIAL?

Medical facials should be performed by a physician or a licensed aesthetician who practices under the supervision of a physician. As these treatments employ medical-grade tools, they are not entirely risk-free. To avoid any unnecessary side effects, look for a licensed skincare professional with extensive knowledge and a proven track record in delivering safe, effective results. 
 

SHOULD I INCORPORATE AN AT-HOME SKINCARE REGIMEN?

It is recommended to incorporate an at-home skincare regimen after a medical facial; always consult with your physician for individual at-home advice.