THE HYDRAFACIAL is an all-in-one treatment that combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration and antioxidant protection. It improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, congested and enlarged pores, oily or acne-prone skin, hyperpigmentation and brown spots. In essence, it is an ideal treatment for all skin types! The innovation stems from the HydraFacial System, a portable tabletop unit that assists doctors performing this non-invasive, hydrating skin resurfacing treatment. It exfoliates dead skin cells and extracts impurities with a vacuum-based skin abrasion tip, while simultaneously bathing the healthy underlying skin with specially developed active serums that cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate and provide residual antioxidant protection.

As a prelude to the three-staged procedure, my skin was prepped with a quick regime of cleansing and toning by the nurse. Once done, Dr Chua started the HydraFacial System and held the patented hydro-peel tip close to my cheeks. With a gentle pressure, I felt the quick strokes of the tiny, abrasive edges of the device tip. The procedure felt very comfortable and relaxing. Dr Chua explained that in this first stage, the skin was primarily being hydrated and cleansed. Working on the principle of microdermabrasion, serums were simultaneously pumped into the skin. This softened dead skin cells and sebum, so impurities could be removed easily.

In the second stage of the treatment, whereby clogged pores are targeted, Dr Chua focused more on my nose area. He added that in between the stages of the HydraFacial, he would suggest to his patients the option of adding a chemical peel; to aid a more efficient exfoliation and extraction of impurities, or a DermaBuilder. The latter is a noteworthy complementary procedure to increase the activity of cells in the basal layer of epidermis to restore moisture balance, provide long-term hydration and improve skin elasticity. The result: soft and supple skin.

The third stage is a final step of hydration, where areas like the eyebrow lines, under the chin and even the lips were worked on gently, without the scraping action. As a final rejuvenation, the hyaluronic acid present in the serums also aids the ultimate hydration of the skin.

After the first treatment, a bright glow is instantly seen radiating from my skin. The treatment left me feeling absolutely refreshed and my skin felt really clean. Even my lips felt supple. The brightening effect on my skin lasted for about a week.

For an effective and long-lasting effect, Dr Chua recommends a HydraFacial treatment once a week for a period of six weeks. After which, it is easily maintained once every one or two months.