A medifacial is a medical-grade facial performed in a clinical setting and designed around your specific skin concern. Rather than a fixed routine, your dermatologist selects the actives, exfoliation and extractions your skin needs, which is why the result is more targeted than an ordinary facial.

A salon facial works mainly on relaxation and the skin’s surface. A medifacial uses medical-grade products and is planned after your skin is assessed, so it addresses a concern such as acne, pigmentation or dullness rather than simply cleansing and massaging.

A Hydrafacial follows one standardised device-based protocol. A medifacial is customised, and may combine different actives, peels or masks chosen for your skin on the day. Your dermatologist will advise which suits you, and the two are sometimes used at different points in a plan.

Usually none. Depending on the actives used, the skin may look mildly flushed for a short while, but you can return to your day and wear make-up soon after. Anything stronger is explained to you beforehand.

Skin looks fresher and clearer the same day. A single facial maintains that for a couple of weeks, while concerns like pigmentation or acne improve over a course. Your dermatologist will suggest how many sessions your skin needs.