Exploring 9 Facial Types for Healthier, Glowing Skin Care

9 Types of Facials: Benefits and What to Know Before Trying Them

Feeling refreshed and glowing is something we all enjoy. That’s exactly what a well-done facial can deliver. But did you know that there are many different kinds of facials, each with its own purpose?

Whether you’re new to skin care or a facial enthusiast looking to try something new, this guide breaks down 9 types of facials, what they do, and who they’re best for.

Let’s dive into this world of relaxing, rejuvenating, and sometimes high-tech skin treatments.

What Is a Facial?

A facial is a skin treatment aimed at improving your complexion. It can involve cleansing, exfoliating, hydrating, or using specialized tools and techniques for specific skin concerns.

Not all facials are the same. Some are spa-style treatments focused on relaxation. Others are more clinical and target skin problems like acne or hyperpigmentation.

You can get a facial at a day spa, a med spa, or a dermatologist’s office. But not every type of facial is available at every location.

Some facials involve tools or products that are best administered under medical supervision. So, if you have skin conditions like rosacea or psoriasis, consult a dermatologist first.

Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist, explains that facials vary greatly. Some focus on massage and moisture. Others target pore cleansing, dead skin removal, and collagen boosting.

Important Note Before You Book a Facial

Facials are not a replacement for seeing a dermatologist. If you have persistent skin issues or concerns, it’s essential to get professional medical advice first.

Dr. Jody Levine, a board-certified dermatologist, emphasizes that while facials can support skin health, only doctors can prescribe certain treatments for conditions like acne or rosacea.

If you’re unsure about which facial to try or have specific skin concerns, talk to a professional first. They can guide you toward the safest and most effective options.

9 Types of Facials to Consider

Here’s a closer look at nine facial treatments worth trying. Each has unique benefits depending on your skin goals and needs.

1. Classic Facial (aka Deep Cleansing or Hydrating Facial)

This is the most traditional and widely available facial type. It’s often what people think of when they picture a spa day.

Classic facials typically involve cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and moisturizing. They’re gentle and suitable for most skin types.

Extractions help clear clogged pores, which can improve your skin’s texture and clarity. Some classic facials may also include a facial massage or mask.

This treatment is great for first-timers. It leaves your skin looking fresh, hydrated, and glowing—but results are usually temporary.

If you have sensitive skin, ask about the products used. Look for a facial tailored to your skin type to avoid irritation.

2. LED Light Therapy Facial

This futuristic-sounding facial uses different wavelengths of LED light to target skin concerns without discomfort.

Red light promotes collagen production and may reduce fine lines. Blue light can help kill acne-causing bacteria and soothe inflammation.

Celebrity esthetician Kristin Gunn notes that LED light is absorbed at different depths to trigger specific reactions, improving skin health over time.

The treatment is painless and typically takes 20–30 minutes. You may need multiple sessions to see lasting results.

At-home LED masks can be used between professional treatments for added benefits, although they are less powerful.

This type of facial is ideal for people with acne, redness, or mild signs of aging.

3. Microneedling Facial

Microneedling uses a tool with tiny needles to create microscopic punctures in the skin. This prompts your body to heal and produce more collagen.

It’s like a workout for your skin. Dr. Kellie Reed explains that this treatment is great for acne scars, fine lines, and skin texture.

Microneedling is especially beneficial for people with darker skin tones looking to treat hyperpigmentation safely.

Because it’s minimally invasive, you’ll need time to heal post-treatment. Redness and mild sensitivity are common for a few days.

If you’re targeting specific concerns like scarring or dullness, microneedling may offer long-term improvements.

4. IPL Photo Facial (Intense Pulsed Light)

IPL facials use pulses of broad-spectrum light to target pigmentation issues like sunspots and visible blood vessels.

The light penetrates the skin and breaks down unwanted pigment or vessels. These are then absorbed naturally by the body.

Dr. Reed says it’s especially effective for sun damage, freckles, and rosacea-related redness.

Avoid this treatment if you have melasma, as IPL can sometimes worsen pigmentation in these cases.

Multiple sessions are usually required for the best results. Each session can leave skin slightly red but improves over time.

5. HydraFacial

A HydraFacial is a three-step treatment that combines cleansing, extraction, and hydration using a special machine.

It removes debris from pores using gentle suction and infuses skin with hydrating serums.

This facial can also include a light chemical peel to enhance exfoliation and improve tone.

It’s safe for most skin types, including sensitive or acne-prone skin, but not ideal if you have active skin infections or severe rosacea.

HydraFacials provide immediate results—smooth, glowing skin without downtime. They’re great before events or for monthly maintenance.

6. Chemical Peel

Chemical peels involve applying a mild acid solution—like glycolic or salicylic acid—to remove dead skin cells.

This helps improve skin tone, texture, and brightness. There are different peel strengths based on your skin goals and sensitivity.

Dr. Levine often uses glycolic acid peels as an introductory option. They’re quick, effective, and can be done in-office.

Some people experience peeling afterward, while others do not. It depends on your skin type and the strength of the peel.

Be sure to follow post-peel care instructions. Sun protection is especially important during recovery.

7. Firming or Sculpting Facial (Microcurrent or Radiofrequency)

These facials aim to lift and tone your face using tools like microcurrent devices or radiofrequency.

Microcurrent uses low-level electricity to stimulate muscles and collagen production. This results in firmer, more contoured skin.

Radiofrequency heats the deeper layers of skin to encourage tightening and smoothing.

Aesthetic nurse Jackie Spagnuolo says that while results are subtle at first, regular treatments can lead to more lasting improvements.

These facials are great if you’re looking to sculpt jawlines, reduce puffiness, or fight signs of aging without injections.

8. Microdermabrasion

This exfoliating treatment uses fine crystals or a diamond-tipped wand to buff away the top layer of skin.

It helps improve dullness, fine lines, and mild scarring. You’ll notice an immediate glow and smoother texture.

However, microdermabrasion can irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin. Talk to your esthetician about whether it’s right for you.

Avoid this facial if you have rosacea, eczema, or a history of scarring.

The results are short-term, but regular sessions can improve overall skin appearance.

9. Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning is like a professional face shave—but with added skin benefits.

Using a sterile blade, your provider gently scrapes off dead skin cells and peach fuzz. The result? Brighter, smoother skin.

This facial is ideal before makeup application or events, as it creates a flawless canvas.

Those with dry or sensitive skin should consider “oilplaning,” which uses oil to minimize friction and irritation.

Dermaplaning is painless and has zero downtime, but it should be done by a trained professional to avoid nicks or skin damage.

Final Thoughts: Which Facial Is Right for You?

The best facial for you depends on your skin type, concerns, and overall goals. Whether you want relaxation, clear pores, or younger-looking skin, there’s a facial that fits.

Before booking, always talk to a licensed provider. They can help you decide which treatment is best for your needs and whether it should be combined with other skincare.

For long-term skin health, pair facials with a consistent home routine and regular dermatology visits. That way, you’re not just treating your skin—you’re taking care of it.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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