HydraFacial vs Carbon Facial vs Chemical Peels
Which facial gives the best glow for your skin type?
Whether you're battling acne, dullness, or prepping for a big event, knowing which facial treatment works for your skin concerns can make all the difference.
Let’s break down HydraFacial, Carbon Facial, and Chemical Peels so you can choose your best glow-up.
At-a-Glance Comparison
Treatment |
Skin Type Compatibility |
Glow Factor |
Acne-Fighting Power |
Sensitivity Level |
Visible Results |
HydraFacial |
All (incl. sensitive) |
🌟🌟🌟🌟 |
Mild–moderate |
Low (gentle) |
Immediate |
Carbon Facial |
Oily, combination, dull skin |
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 |
High (deep cleansing) |
Medium |
1–2 days |
Chemical Peel |
Uneven tone, pigmentation |
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 |
Moderate–high |
High (active acids) |
3–5 days |
HydraFacial: The Glow-Getter for Every Skin
The HydraFacial is a multi-step treatment that cleanses, exfoliates, and infuses your skin with hydrating serums, all in one go.
It’s ideal for dehydrated skin, early signs of ageing, or anyone craving that “glass skin” effect without irritation.
How It Works:
-
Gentle exfoliation with a vortex tip
-
Deep pore suction
-
Custom serum infusion (hyaluronic acid, peptides, antioxidants)
Downtime: None
Best For: First-time facials, sensitive skin, pre-event glow
From: R750
Carbon Facial: The Instagram-Ready Deep Clean
Also known as the “Hollywood Peel”, this treatment uses a carbon-based lotion and laser to deeply cleanse, tighten pores, and even skin tone.
It’s especially loved by oily skin types and those wanting an instantly clearer, brighter face.
How It Works:
-
Liquid carbon applied to skin
-
Laser targets carbon particles → lifts impurities + exfoliates
-
Skin appears cleaner, smoother, and more photogeni
Downtime: Mild redness, ~24 hrs max
Best For: Oily skin, acne-prone types, post-travel dullness
From: R650
Chemical Peels: The Deep Reset Button
This is your go-to for serious skin renewal. Chemical peels use safe, controlled acids (like glycolic or salicylic) to strip away dull, damaged skin and reveal fresh new layers.
How It Works:
-
Chemical solution applied
-
Dead skin sheds over several days
-
Boosts collagen, unclogs pores, evens tone
Note: Peels vary in strength. Some are surface-level, others target deeper damage.
Downtime: 2–5 days (flaking or peeling)
Best For: Pigmentation, scarring, acne, melasma
From: R550
Which Glow is Right for You?
Goal/Occasion |
Recommended Facial |
Event-ready glow |
HydraFacial or Carbon Facial |
Teen acne or oily skin |
Carbon Facial |
Post-travel dullness |
HydraFacial |
Uneven tone + pigment |
Chemical Peel |
Sensitive skin |
HydraFacial |
Deep skin refresh |
Chemical Peel |
Not sure what to book? That’s where we come in.
Book Your Glow Consult – We’ll Recommend the Best One for You
We’ll analyse your skin, goals, and schedule to recommend the facial that will give you:
-
The brightest glow
-
The clearest skin
-
The best results, for you
Available at Skin Reform Sandton, Bedfordview & Cape Town
30–45 minute treatments with visible results
Book Your Custom Glow Session Today
Frequently Asked Questions About Glow-Boosting Facials
The HydraFacial is perfect for sensitive skin or those new to facials. It’s gentle, hydrating, and non-invasive, delivering an instant glow without redness or irritation.
The Carbon Facial is ideal. It deeply cleanses, tightens pores, and reduces oiliness and acne, all while giving your skin a clearer, brighter look in just 24 hours.
Both the Carbon Facial and Chemical Peel offer a 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 glow factor, but if you want longer-lasting skin renewal, a chemical peel is your go-to for deeper results and even tone.
Some light peeling and redness can occur for 2–5 days, depending on the strength of the peel. But it’s a safe, controlled process that delivers powerful results for pigmentation and scarring.
HydraFacial: Immediate glow-up, zero downtime
Carbon Facial: Clearer skin within 1–2 days
Chemical Peel: Results emerge after 3–5 days as old skin sheds