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Key Takeaways
- Facials are professional skin treatments that cleanse, exfoliate and nourish your skin, with popular options ranging from a gentle European facial to collagen-stimulating microneedling.
- The national average cost of a facial ranges from $54 to $2,698, depending on treatment type, location and other factors.
- The CareCredit credit card can help you finance facial treatments and pay over time with convenient monthly payments.*
When your skin looks dull and tired, a little professional pampering may be just what it needs. But with so many treatments on spa and med spa menus, how do you know which facial may be right for you? From the classic European facial to collagen-stimulating microneedling, each treatment offers its own path to a healthy glow. Read on to learn how 10 popular types of facials work, what they treat and what you might expect to pay.
What Is a Facial?
A facial is a non-invasive skin treatment that typically includes cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing and other elements customized to your specific skin type and needs. Facials are performed by licensed aestheticians or dermatologists and may also include steam, masks, serums, extractions or facial massage.1
Because your skin renews itself every 28 to 40 days, aestheticians may recommend a facial every four to six weeks to help keep your complexion at its best.1 Whether you want deep hydration, a brighter complexion or smoother texture, there may be a facial designed for your skin goals and budget.
1. Acupuncture Facial
Facial acupuncture, also called cosmetic acupuncture, brings the ancient practice of acupuncture to your skin care routine.2
How it works
During facial acupuncture, ultra-thin needles are inserted into the skin on your face. The needles create minor wounds under the skin that encourage the body to produce healing proteins (collagen and elastin) to improve the appearance of your skin.2
An acupuncture facial can help treat the following common skin conditions:2
- Fine lines
- Sagging skin
- Wrinkles
On average, a facial acupuncture session takes 60 to 90 minutes, with the needles typically left in place for 20 to 30 minutes.2
Side effects and recovery
This procedure is generally considered safe when performed by a licensed and experienced practitioner. You may notice slight bruising for a few days afterward, especially in the eye area, along with temporary redness or sensitivity at the needle sites.2
Results
Facial acupuncture can enhance the appearance of the skin and combat signs of aging, though multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve lasting results. A typical course is 10 to 12 sessions, done once or twice a week, with maintenance visits every four to eight weeks.2
Costs
A facial acupuncture session typically costs between $100 and $300, with a full course of treatments averaging $1,000 to $3,000 or more.2
2. Chemical Peel
A chemical peel is a skin treatment that uses a mild acid solution to remove the outer layers of skin.3
How it works
Chemical peels can vary in strength and type, but generally, they work by removing damaged layers of skin to encourage new skin growth. Chemical peels come in three depths: light peels that gently exfoliate the outer layer of skin, medium peels that reach the outer and middle layers, and deep peels that penetrate furthest for the most dramatic improvement.4
A chemical peel can help treat the following common skin conditions:4
- Acne scars
- Age spots
- Fine lines
- Sun damage
- Uneven skin tone
On average, a chemical peel takes between 30 and 90 minutes.5
Side effects and recovery
Recovering from a chemical peel will take at least a few days, but length can vary greatly depending on the strength of the peel. Light peels typically heal in one to seven days, medium peels in seven to 14 days and deep peels in 14 to 21 days. Many people also experience the following side effects, depending on the specific type of chemical peel:4
- Blistering
- Redness
- Scaling
- Swelling
Results
After a chemical peel, the regenerated skin is typically smoother and less wrinkled, leaving you with a fresh and healthy glow. However, the results from more intense chemical peels may be more noticeable.4 Your provider can help you choose the right depth for your skin concerns and schedule.
Costs
The average cost** of a chemical peel ranges from $230 to $2,698, depending on the depth of treatment.3
3. Dermaplaning
This type of facial involves gently scraping away the top layer of dead skin cells from your face with a sharp surgical blade.6
How it works
Removing peach fuzz (also called vellus hair) and dead skin can help smooth and brighten your skin and improve your skin’s ability to absorb serums and moisturizers.6
Dermaplaning can help treat the following common skin conditions:6
- Dryness
- Dullness
- Fine lines
- Peach fuzz
- Rough texture
On average, dermaplaning takes between 20 and 30 minutes.6
Side effects and recovery
There is no downtime after dermaplaning. Some people notice mild redness that fades within an hour or two, and skin can be more sensitive to the sun for a day or two afterward, so be sure to apply sunscreen.6
Results
Brightening results are immediate: Skin feels smoother right away, makeup applies more evenly and skin care products absorb better.6
Costs
Dermaplaning typically costs between $75 and $150 per session, and bundled packages that pair it with other facial treatments may cost $125 to $200.6
4. European Facial
A European facial is good for dry skin. This multistep type of facial is great for beginners.7
How it works
It generally consists of a few key steps, including:7
- Deep cleansing
- Exfoliating
- Steaming
- Black/whitehead extraction
- Massage and moisturizer
A European facial can help treat the following common skin conditions:7
- Breakouts
- Clogged pores
- Dry skin
On average, a European facial takes 45 to 75 minutes.7
Side effects and recovery
There is no downtime after a European facial. However, your skin may be sensitive for a day or two after treatment, so it’s important to stay out of the sun, limit makeup and avoid potential irritants.7
Results
With regular sessions, a European facial can help improve your skin’s overall texture and keep your complexion hydrated and refreshed.7
Costs
A European facial costs an average of $85 per session, with most people paying between $75 and $200 depending on the type of spa and location.7
5. Hydrafacial
A Hydrafacial™ is a spa facial with a three-step process to clean, exfoliate and moisturize or hydrate your skin.8
How it works
A wand with specialized attachments is used to deeply clean pores and remove dead cells from the outer layer of skin. The wand also helps deliver problem-targeting serum deep into the skin.9
A Hydrafacial can help treat the following common skin conditions:8
- Acne
- Large pores
- Wrinkles
On average, a Hydrafacial takes about 30 minutes.8
Side effects and recovery
Hydrafacial treatments are typically gentle and effective, with no recovery time.8 While most people can return to their daily routine right away, it’s best to skip makeup for the rest of the day.8 As with any facial, some people may experience mild redness or sensitivity, but these side effects fade quickly.10
Results
You can expect a radiant glow and a boost of hydration that typically lasts five to seven days. Monthly treatments are often recommended for the best results.8
Costs
The average cost** of a Hydrafacial (aka hydradermabrasion) is $220 per treatment area, but it can range from $160 to $360.3
6. LED Light Facial
An LED light facial is a painless, light-based treatment and a form of light therapy that works without UV rays or heat.11
How it works
During an LED light facial, a spa facial specialist will shine heat-free, UV-free light on your skin. This light helps the cells create more collagen and elastin. Depending on your needs, you may have red or blue light applied.11
An LED light facial can help treat the following common skin conditions:11
- Acne
- Fine lines
- Inflammation
- Sagging
On average, an LED light facial takes 20 to 30 minutes.11
Side effects and recovery
LED facials are gentle, though your skin may look slightly flushed after a session. You can get right back to your usual activities.11
Results
Effective acne treatment may require a series of sessions over several weeks. For anti-aging and skin tone benefits, your provider may recommend six to 10 sessions, followed by maintenance treatments every four to six weeks.11
Costs
The average cost** of red and blue light therapy ranges from $54 to $61 per treatment area.3
7. Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive skin treatment that uses tiny crystals or a diamond tip to gently exfoliate the top layer of skin.3
How it works
During microdermabrasion, an aesthetician or dermatologist gently exfoliates the skin and vacuums the dead cells away after cleansing your face. They will typically apply moisturizer afterward.12
Microdermabrasion can help treat the following common skin conditions:12
- Age spots
- Fine lines
- Scars
- Unevenness/discoloration
On average, microdermabrasion takes between 30 and 45 minutes for the face.5
Side effects and recovery
You may notice mild swelling, a stinging sensation or sun sensitivity immediately after treatment. Side effects are typically minor, and most people can return to their regular activities the same day.5
Results
Most people notice results immediately after the first session: Skin typically looks smoother, brighter and more even. Multiple sessions may be recommended for the best results.12
Costs
The average cost** of microdermabrasion ranges from $150 to $185 per treatment area.3
8. Microneedling
Microneedling is a skin treatment that uses tiny needles to boost collagen production.13
How it works
Creating tiny, superficial wounds in the skin encourages your body to heal by making more collagen and elastin — proteins that help your skin look younger.13
Microneedling can help treat the following skin conditions:13
- Age spots
- Dark spots
- Fine lines
- Large pores
- Sagging
- Wrinkles
On average, the microneedling treatment itself takes about 10 minutes, though appointments run longer to allow time for a numbing cream to take effect.13
Side effects and recovery
Minor side effects such as redness, sensitivity and swelling typically resolve within a few days. Complications such as infection and scarring are rare, especially when the treatment is performed by a qualified aesthetician. Recovery time from a microneedling procedure typically takes one to three days.14
Results
Most people need three to six treatments, spaced about four to six weeks apart, to see smoother, firmer skin.14
Costs
The average cost** of radiofrequency microneedling (which combines tiny needles with radiofrequency energy) is $938 per treatment area, but it can range from $686 to $1,515.3
9. Oxygen Facial
An oxygen facial is a gentle, skin-quenching treatment designed to hydrate your skin and give it a healthy glow.15
How it works
During an oxygen facial, an aesthetician will cleanse and exfoliate your skin, then apply a specialized, hydrating serum. After that, they will use a special wand to deliver highly pressurized oxygen to your skin to enhance absorption of the nourishing serum.15
An oxygen facial can help treat the following common skin conditions:16
- Dullness
- Fine lines
- Sagging
- Uneven skin tone
On average, an oxygen facial takes 30 to 60 minutes.15
Side effects and recovery
Oxygen facials are gentle and a good option if you need a facial in the midst of your busy life. While you may experience temporary irritation, redness or tightness, these side effects typically resolve within a few days.16
Results
Results are visible right away — skin looks plumper, brighter and more hydrated. A series of six treatments may be recommended for cumulative benefits, followed by one session every four to six weeks to maintain results.16
Costs
An oxygen facial typically costs between $75 and $150 per session at a day spa, while med spa treatments can run $200 to $500 or more.15
10. Vampire Facial (Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment)
A Vampire Facial® involves — you guessed it — blood. More specifically, the plasma from your blood.
How it works
For this type of facial, your provider will draw your blood, extract the plasma and then apply it to your skin through microneedling. The treatment is designed to stimulate your body’s natural healing processes and produce refreshed, revitalized skin.17
A Vampire Facial can help treat the following common skin conditions:18
- Acne scars
- Fine lines
- Uneven skin texture
- Wrinkles
On average, a Vampire Facial takes about an hour.17
Side effects and recovery
Typical side effects for this anti-aging procedure include mild bruising, redness and swelling, which should resolve within a few days. Most people can get back to their day immediately after treatment.17
Results
Skin texture often starts to improve within days, but full results build over about three months as collagen regenerates, and they can last 12 to 18 months.18
Costs
The national average cost** of a platelet-rich plasma treatment is $838, but it can range from $598 to $1,369.3
Which Facial Is Right for You?
From classic European facials to deep chemical peels, there’s a facial treatment for nearly every skin type, concern and budget. Gentle options like Hydrafacials, LED light facials and dermaplaning offer a quick refresh with little to no downtime, while microneedling, Vampire Facials and deeper peels work below the surface for longer-term results. Connect with a licensed aesthetician or dermatologist to explore which treatment may best fit your skin goals.
Financing Facial Treatments With the CareCredit Credit Card
When getting facial treatments or another cosmetic procedure, the CareCredit credit card can help you pay for costs not covered by insurance.* Use our Acceptance Locator to find a doctor or cosmetic specialist near you that accepts CareCredit. Continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your CareCredit account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U blog for more great articles, podcasts and videos.
In addition to cosmetic procedures, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for dentistry, pet care, vision, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?
Author Bio
Kristin Driver is a Digital Writer with Synchrony. She specializes in writing about healthcare, finances and pet care. Her work has been published by Cedars-Sinai, UCLA Health, Stanford Health Care, Risk & Insurance, Modern Health Care, Risk Insider, CIO Review and more.
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