There’s something oddly emotional about walking out of a good facial. Not just the clean-skin kind of satisfaction—but that strange, floaty feeling like someone hit the reset button on your entire face.
But then there’s that moment before, when you’re staring at the spa menu like it’s a test you forgot to study for. So many options. No idea what any of them actually do. And the last thing you want to do is pretend you know what a “hydradermabrasion” even is.
So let’s make this simpler.
Here’s a quick breakdown of a few treatments you might see at places like Vitalize Skin Clinicin Markham—what they do, who they’re best for, and what they actually feel like.
Dermaplaning Facial
Imagine someone gently shaving your face with a tiny blade—but in a good, strangely satisfying way. That’s dermaplaning. It’s a type of manual exfoliation that removes dead skin cells and those little baby hairs (aka peach fuzz) that somehow catch all the wrong light.
There’s no downtime. No pain. And no, your hair won’t grow back thicker. That’s a myth people keep passing around like bad advice on Reddit.
Best for: Anyone looking for smooth, even skin. Makeup artists love it before photoshoots or weddings because foundation goes on like silk afterward.
Bonus: Skincare products sink in better. Like way better.
It’s not dramatic. But your face just… feels cleaner. Like it’s breathing again.
Hydradermabrasion Facial
This one’s for the multitaskers. It exfoliates, deep-cleans pores, and floods your skin with hydration—all in one treatment. Think of it as the more considerate cousin of microdermabrasion: same glow, less aggression.
If your skin feels dry and oily at the same time—or if it’s just been acting up lately—this can help bring it back to center. It’s especially kind to sensitive types, which isn’t always the case with more intense exfoliation methods.
Best for: Tired, breakout-prone, or uneven skin.
Why it works: It doesn’t just scrub and leave—it gives back moisture, which most harsh facials forget about entirely.
And the result? You don’t walk out looking “done.” You just look a little more awake. A little more like you, but better rested.
Basic Facial
Don’t let the word “basic” fool you. There’s something grounding about this one.
It’s not flashy. No fancy machines. Just a real human using their hands and eyes to understand what your skin actually needs that day. Cleanse, exfoliate, maybe a little steam, a customized mask, maybe a massage—depends on who’s doing it.
Best for: People who want maintenance without the drama.
Why it matters: Not every skin day is a project. Sometimes, it just needs care.
And that’s what this facial is really about: attention. Quiet, focused attention on the part of you that often gets ignored until it breaks out or flakes off.
A Few Quick Takeaways (No Buzzwords, Promise)
- Dermaplaning: Smooths skin, removes fuzz, makes everything absorb better.
- Hydradermabrasion: Cleanses and hydrates at the same time. Big win for congested or tired skin.
- Basic Facial: Classic, calming, and totally worth making a habit of.
What Happens When You Pick the “Wrong” One?
Honestly? Not much. Most skin clinics—especially the good ones—will walk you through it. You might book one thing and end up with another after they take a closer look at your skin. That’s not a bait-and-switch. That’s just… care.
At places like Vitalize, that’s the standard. They listen. Ask real questions. And suggest what fits today—not what sounded good on the website last week.
Because when your skin’s been heard and treated with some honesty, you carry yourself a little differently. The mirror doesn’t feel like a test anymore. It just reflects back something that feels… settled.
And that might be what you were looking for all along—even if you didn’t have the words for it.
