Hydrafacial vs. Traditional Facial: Which Delivers Better Results for Your Skin?

A Guide from Splendid Skincare + Brow Studio of San Antonio

Have you ever wondered whether to book a traditional facial or upgrade to a Hydrafacial? You’re certainly not alone. Both of these treatments offer many skin-loving benefits, but they work in very different ways.

Here at Splendid Skincare + Brow Studio of San Antonio, we’re happy to offer both Hydrafacials and traditional facials, and clients will often ask us: “Which one is better for my skin?”

The answer to that question? It depends on your skincare goals, your skin type, and the specific results you’re seeking.

In this post, we’ll break down important differences, benefits, and how to choose the best option for your next glow-up!

What is a Traditional Facial?

A traditional facial includes hands-on skincare methods which will commonly include:

  • Cleansing

  • Exfoliation

  • Steam

  • Manual extractions

  • Massage

  • Custom mask

  • Moisturizer and SPF

At Splendid Skincare + Brow Studio of San Antonio, our custom traditional facials are truly designed to meet your skin’s specific needs. Our traditional facials are hydrating, calming, clarifying, and anti-aging. Each of our traditional facials includes professional-grade products, soothing techniques, and plenty of pampering to help you feel refreshed and revitalized.

Best for:

  • Sensitive skin

  • First-time facial clients

  • Relaxation seekers

  • Routine maintenance

What is a Hydrafacial?

A hydrafacial is truly a next-level facial, combining advanced technology with some amazing skin results. Hydrafacials utilize a patented vortex-fusion device to properly cleanse, exfoliate, extract impurities, and infuse your skin with customized hydrating serums; all in one treatment!

Here at Splendid Skincare + Brow Studio of San Antonio, our Hydrafacials are performed with the latest Hydrafacial machine and customized boosters tailored to your skin goals.

Best for:

  • Dull, congested skin

  • Enlarged pores

  • Fine lines and wrinkles

  • Oily or acne-prone complexions

  • Clients who want visible results fast

Hydrafacial vs. Traditional Facial: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Traditional Facial Hydrafacial
Exfoliation Manual exfoliation or enzyme peel Medical-grade exfoliation with glycolic + salicylic acid
Extractions Manual (can be uncomfortable) Gentle, no-pain vacuum suction
Customization Based on skin type Tailored with targeted boosters and serums
Downtime None to minimal redness Little to none—instant glow
Results Relaxing and rejuvenating Bright, hydrated, visibly cleaner skin after one session
Technology Hands-on, manual techniques High-tech vortex infusion system
Ideal for Routine maintenance or calming treatment Deep cleansing and instant visible improvement

Which Facial Delivers Better Results?

Both facials will typically deliver excellent results, yet the type of results varies.

Choose a Hydrafacial if you want:

✔ Deep pore cleansing
✔ Brighter, more radiant skin immediately
✔ Minimal downtime
✔ A more clinical-grade treatment with fast payoff

Hydrafacial is ideal for those big events, weddings, or if you happen to be struggling with breakouts or dullness.

Choose a Traditional Facial if you want:

✔ A relaxing, spa-like experience
✔ Gentle exfoliation and hydration
✔ A customized, manual treatment for sensitive or reactive skin

Traditional facials are always a good option for stress relief and maintaining healthy skin over time.

At Splendid Skincare + Brow Studio of San Antonio, many of our clients will alternate between the two types of facials. They’ll select a Hydrafacial when they need a serious reset, and then they’ll select a traditional facial to maintain their glow and hydration in between.

Real Client Results at Splendid Skincare + Brow Studio

We’ve seen truly stunning transformations with both facial treatments. One of our Hydrafacial clients recently said:

“After just one Hydrafacial at Splendid Skincare, my skin looked like I had just walked off a magazine shoot; poreless, hydrated, and glowing. I was hooked.”

A regular traditional facial client told us:

“I love the calming energy and personalized care at Splendid. It’s not just about my skin, it’s like therapy for my soul.”

This is the difference personalized skincare from Splendid Skincare + Brow Studio can make.

Can You Combine the Two Types of Facials?

Absolutely! Many of our loyal clients at Splendid Skincare + Brow Studio of San Antonio do exactly that.

We’ll be happy to pair elements of a traditional facial such as a custom mask, facial massage, or LED therapy with our Hydrafacial treatment for a truly luxurious, results-focused session.

Always Choose What Works Best for You (or Let Us Help You Decide)

When it comes to choosing between a Hydrafacial and a traditional facial it’s not always about which one is “better”, it’s more so about which one helps your skin look and feel its best at the current moment. Our team of experts will help you determine what your skin needs now.

Need a deep reset before a big event? Hydrafacial.
Craving a relaxing, nourishing skin moment? Traditional facial.
Want both? We can create a hybrid experience just for you.

At Splendid Skincare + Brow Studio of San Antonio, our licensed estheticians will assess your skin, talk through your skincare goals, and guide you on the best treatment which fits your skincare goals.

Ready to Book Your Best Skin Yet?

Call us or book online with Splendid Skincare + Brow Studio of San Antonio and let’s have your and your skin glowing!

Your skin. Your goals. Our expertise.

Next
Next

How to Choose the Right Med Spa: 7 Questions to Ask Before You Book