HydraFacial, Diamond Glow (formerly DermaInfusion), and microdermabrasion are three exfoliation facials that look similar from the outside but use different mechanisms. All are no-downtime, all add glow, but the depth, hydration, and customization differ.
This guide covers each technology, when each is the right choice, and the maintenance economics.
HydraFacial
Vortex-fusion vacuum tip + cleansing/glycolic/salicylic serums. Three-step: cleanse + extract + hydrate. Add-on boosters available. US vs Lima cost.
HydraFacial's signature is the serum-infused exfoliation — the device delivers active serums while exfoliating, which combines mechanical and chemical exfoliation in one pass.
Diamond Glow (Allergan)
Diamond-tip exfoliation + serum infusion in one pass. Generally smoother feel than HydraFacial; deeper exfoliation. US-only widely; not commonly available in Lima.
Diamond Glow's diamond-tip is harder than HydraFacial's serum tips, producing more aggressive surface exfoliation. Useful for mature skin.
Microdermabrasion
Mechanical exfoliation (crystal or diamond) without serum infusion. Older tech, still effective for mild congestion and dullness. Generally cheapest option.
Microdermabrasion has been largely replaced by HydraFacial in modern medical aesthetics, but specific use cases remain (sensitive skin, budget-conscious patients).
When to choose each
- HydraFacial: oily, congested skin; pre-event glow; broad multi-skin-type tool
- Diamond Glow: mature skin needing deeper exfoliation; in US markets where available
- Microdermabrasion: budget-friendly basic exfoliation; sensitive skin requiring gentlest option
Recovery and downtime
All three: zero downtime. Mild redness for 1-2 hours possible. Makeup OK same day. SPF 50+ recommended.
Cost
| Treatment | US per session | Lima per session |
|---|---|---|
| HydraFacial | $150-$300 | ~US$57 |
| Diamond Glow | $200-$400 | n/a |
| Microdermabrasion | $75-$150 | ~US$30-50 |
Maintenance schedule
All three: monthly for sustained skin quality. Most patients combine with home retinoid + vitamin C + SPF for cumulative effect.
Combining with other treatments
HydraFacial pairs well with:
- + Morpheus8 (2 weeks after): textural smoothing post-resurfacing
- + HIFU (any time): glow + lifting
- + Filler/toxin (same day): refresh package
- + Hollywood Peel: alternating monthly for sustained luminosity
Frequently asked questions
Are these dermatologist-grade or just spa treatments?
All three are medical-grade when performed in a clinical setting. Quality depends more on operator and serum selection than on the brand.
Will these clear acne?
Mild acne yes. Severe acne needs medical management.
Can I do these during pregnancy?
HydraFacial is one of few aesthetic treatments fully safe in pregnancy.
Is HydraFacial worth subscribing to?
If local: maybe. Lima is a non-starter for subscription due to travel cost. Lima HydraFacial is best as an add-on to other treatment trips.
What about LED therapy add-ons?
Red LED enhances anti-aging. Blue LED helps acne. Both reasonable add-ons but limited standalone effect.
Will I see immediate results?
Yes. Glow visible immediately. Effects last 3-4 weeks.
Are there contraindications?
Active rosacea flare, severe acne, recent isotretinoin use. Discuss at consultation.
Bottom line
HydraFacial is the standard for medical-grade exfoliation facials in 2026. Lima at ~US$57 makes it a no-brainer add-on to any other Lima treatment trip. Diamond Glow has specific use cases in the US; microdermabrasion is budget-friendly basic exfoliation.