The main types of facials are the classic facial, hydrating and deep cleansing facials, the Hydrafacial, dermaplaning, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, LED light facials and microneedling. Classic facials suit beginners and relaxation, while machine and exfoliating treatments are more targeted and some need downtime and a trained practitioner.
Salon and spa menus can be confusing. One facial promises a glow, another lists acids you've never heard of, and a third involves a machine with a name that sounds like a sci-fi film. This guide explains the main types of facials and salon skin treatments in plain English: what happens during each one, who it tends to suit and what to ask before you book. It isn't medical advice. If you have a skin condition, talk to your GP or a dermatologist first, and always tell your therapist about allergies and any products you use.
Types of facials at a glance
| Facial | What happens | Often chosen for |
|---|---|---|
| Classic or European facial | Cleanse, exfoliation, steam, extractions, mask and massage | A general refresh and relaxation |
| Hydrating facial | Moisture-rich serums and masks | Skin that feels dry or tight |
| Deep cleansing facial | Thorough cleanse, steam and extractions | Congested skin and blackheads |
| Hydrafacial | A machine cleanses, exfoliates, extracts and applies serums in one session | A polished, fresh look with little downtime |
| Chemical peel | An exfoliating solution applied and removed, from gentle to strong | Dullness and uneven texture |
| Microdermabrasion | Mechanical exfoliation of the top layer of skin | Smoother-feeling skin |
| Dermaplaning | A blade gently removes dead skin and fine facial hair | Smooth skin and better make-up application |
| LED light facial | Coloured light panels over the face, often added to another facial | A relaxing add-on with no contact |
| Microneedling | Fine needles create tiny channels in the skin | Texture concerns; carried out by trained practitioners |
Classic facial
The classic facial is the one most spas offer and the best place to start if you've never had one. Your therapist cleanses your skin, looks at it under a lamp, exfoliates, may use steam to soften it, carries out gentle extractions if needed, then applies a mask and finishes with a face, neck and shoulder massage. It's as much about relaxation as skin, and you'll usually leave with advice on a home routine.
Hydrating and deep cleansing facials
Most spas offer versions of the classic facial tailored to how your skin feels. A hydrating facial focuses on moisture, with richer masks and serums, and suits skin that feels dry or tight, especially in winter. A deep cleansing facial spends more time on steam and extractions and suits skin with blocked pores and blackheads. If you're not sure which you need, book a consultation or simply ask the therapist to choose on the day.
What is a Hydrafacial?
A Hydrafacial is a branded treatment that uses a machine with a special tip to cleanse and exfoliate, loosen and suction out debris from pores, then infuse serums. People like it because it's quick, feels gentle and usually leaves skin looking fresh and glowing straight away, with no obvious downtime. Treatments can be customised with different serums and add-ons such as LED light.
What is dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning uses a sterile surgical-style blade, held at an angle, to gently scrape away the top layer of dead skin cells and the fine, fluffy facial hair often called peach fuzz. The result is skin that feels very smooth, and many people find make-up goes on more evenly afterwards. It's often combined with a facial or a gentle peel. It isn't usually recommended over active breakouts or irritated skin, so your therapist will check first. Fine facial hair grows back with the same texture as before.
Chemical peels
A chemical peel applies an exfoliating solution to the skin for a set time, then removes or neutralises it. Peels range from very gentle, with little or no visible peeling, to strong peels that need recovery time and should only be done in a clinical setting. In a salon, you'll usually be offered a light peel. Expect some tingling during the treatment, and use sun protection every day afterwards, because freshly exfoliated skin is more sensitive to the sun.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion buffs away the top layer of dead skin using a device with a fine crystal or diamond tip, combined with gentle suction. It's a step up from a manual scrub, and people often choose it for skin that feels rough or looks dull. You might feel a light scratching sensation. Mild redness afterwards is common and usually settles quickly.
LED light facials
LED facials use panels of coloured light, commonly red or blue, placed over the face for a set time. They're painless and relaxing, which is why they're often added on to the end of another facial. Your eyes will be protected with goggles. If you're sensitive to light or take medication that increases light sensitivity, mention it before your treatment.
Microneedling
Microneedling uses a pen or roller with very fine needles to create tiny channels in the top layers of the skin, and it's popular for texture concerns. Because it breaks the skin, it should only be done by a trained, insured practitioner in a clean, clinical environment, with a full consultation first. Expect redness for a day or two and follow the aftercare closely. It isn't suitable for everyone, so be honest on your consultation form.
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How to choose a facial
- Start with how your skin feels: dry, oily, congested, sensitive or simply in need of a treat.
- Decide whether you want relaxation, results or both. Classic facials are the most relaxing; machine treatments are more focused.
- Check for downtime. Book anything that may leave you red well before a big event.
- Read the therapist's qualifications and reviews, especially for peels and microneedling.
- Ask what products they use and whether they patch test.
- Be honest on the consultation form about medication, pregnancy and skin conditions.
Before and after your facial
- Avoid retinoids and strong exfoliating products for a few days beforehand if your therapist advises it.
- Don't wax or use hair removal cream on your face just before a treatment.
- Arrive without make-up if you can.
- Afterwards, skip heavy make-up, saunas and intense workouts for the rest of the day.
- Use a broad-spectrum sun cream every day, especially after peels and exfoliating treatments.
- Contact the salon if you notice anything that doesn't settle.
If you're booking a facial as part of a day out, my spa day guide covers what to pack and what to expect, and my guide on how to get clear skin shares a simple at-home routine to keep the results going.
Running a salon?
If you run a salon or spa, clear descriptions like these on your treatment menu help clients book with confidence and reduce nervous questions on the day. My ChatGPT prompts for hairdressers and salons can help you write treatment descriptions, aftercare emails and booking reminders in your own voice.
Qualified therapists and skincare writers who explain treatments clearly and responsibly can read about contributing a beauty article.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best type of facial for beginners?
A classic facial is a good start. It combines cleansing, exfoliation, a mask and a relaxing massage, and your therapist can tailor it to your skin.
What is the difference between a Hydrafacial and a regular facial?
A Hydrafacial uses a machine to cleanse, exfoliate, extract and apply serums in one session, while a regular facial is done by hand with products, steam and massage.
Does dermaplaning make hair grow back thicker?
No. Fine facial hair removed by dermaplaning grows back with the same texture as before.
How often should you get a facial?
It depends on your skin and the treatment. Your therapist can suggest a schedule; many people book a classic facial every month or so, or for special occasions.
Is microneedling safe to have at a salon?
It should only be carried out by a trained, insured practitioner in a clean, clinical setting after a full consultation. It isn't suitable for everyone.
