Hydrofacial or chemical peel: which should you choose? Upkeep or correction

Your skin looks tired, your make-up sits badly and you want to book something. The two names you keep hearing are hydrofacial and chemical peel. They are not rivals. They do different jobs, and knowing which job your skin needs saves you money.

What is the difference between a hydrofacial and a chemical peel?

Think of it as upkeep versus correction.

A hydrofacial is a multi-step facial that uses water-based suction to lift dirt, oil and dead skin from your pores, then floods the skin with hydrating serums. It is gentle, there is no peeling, and your skin looks brighter as soon as you sit up.

A chemical peel is a professional-strength blend of exfoliating acids applied for a set time, then neutralised or removed. It speeds up your skin's renewal, so over a course pigmentation, acne marks and rough texture look softer.

Choose a hydrofacial if...

• Your skin looks dull, grey or tired.
• Your pores feel clogged and make-up never sits right.
• Your skin feels tight or dry, even with a good moisturiser.
• You have an event in the next few days and no time for downtime. Book it 2 to 3 days before.

Choose a chemical peel if...

• Dark spots or sun damage make your skin look uneven.
• Old acne marks stay long after the spots have gone.
• Your skin breaks out, looks congested or feels oily by lunchtime.
• You want brightness that lasts longer than a facial.

Modern peels are far gentler than their reputation. Many leave no visible peeling at all.

Which peel would suit me?

We match the peel to your skin, never a menu:

• First peel or sensitive skin: Medik8 Universal / Sensitive Peel, from €100.
• Pigmentation and dark spots: Medik8 Even or our clinic peels, always with daily SPF.
• Breakouts and oily skin: Medik8 Clarity, or a Carbon Peel if you prefer no acids. A Carbon Peel is a laser treatment and needs a patch test 48 hours before.
• Fine lines and early ageing: Medik8 Rewind or BioRePeel, from €100.
• Acne scars and texture: BioRePeel + Microneedling.

Can you have both?

Yes, and it is often the smartest plan. A hydrofacial between peels keeps your skin clean and hydrated while the peels do the deeper work. Leave about 2 weeks after a peel before a hydrofacial.

We plan the rhythm with you, alternating the two around your skin and your diary. See hydrofacial and chemical peels for live prices.

What if I have active acne?

A hydrofacial is not the right choice for active, inflamed acne, and a peel will not cure acne. Our Acne Therapy Facial, from €120, is made for breakouts, with an assessment first. It is for clients aged 18 and over. For severe or painful acne, see your GP or a dermatologist as well.

Who should wait?

Tell us first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have sunburn, a fresh tan, broken skin or an active cold sore, or have taken isotretinoin in the last 6 months. Stop retinoids 2 to 3 days before a hydrofacial, and retinol and acids a few days before a peel, as we advise.

How do I look after my skin afterwards?

After either treatment: SPF every morning, no exfoliants, retinol or acids for a few days (5 to 7 after a peel), and no saunas or hot workouts straight after. After a peel, never pick flaking skin. Let it shed.

Not sure which one your skin needs? Book a free 10-minute consultation, or a full Skin Consultation, from €50, for a skin scan and a written plan. See our hydrofacial and chemical peels, or every face treatment.

This guide is general information, not medical advice. Results vary from person to person.