Types of Facials: How to Choose the Right Facial for Your Skin?

September 25, 2026

Have you ever walked out of a facial expecting glowing skin, only to feel like something was missing? The treatment may not have matched your skin.

With so many facial options, choosing the right one can feel confusing, especially when each treatment promises something different.

A facial is not just about cleansing your skin or relaxing under a face mask. Depending on the treatment, it can help clear clogged pores, remove dead skin cells, boost hydration, brighten dull skin, or improve the appearance of fine lines.

Some facials are calming and gentle, while others offer deeper exfoliation or more targeted care.

Your skin type and concerns should always guide your choice. A facial that works well for oily skin may not suit dry or sensitive skin.

In this guide, we’ll explore different facial treatments, what they do, and who they may suit.

You'll also learn how to choose a facial based on your skin type and concerns so that you can feel more confident about your next treatment.

What Is a Facial?

A facial is a professional skincare treatment that cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates the skin. Depending on the treatment, it can also target specific concerns such as clogged pores, dryness, dullness, or uneven texture.

It may include cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, a mask, moisturizer, and other targeted products or techniques. The exact steps depend on the facial and your skin's needs.

What Are the Different Types of Facials?

Facial treatments come in various types, each designed to address specific skin needs or concerns. Some focus on hydration, while others target acne, clogged pores, dullness, pigmentation, or visible signs of aging.

Understanding the different facial types can help you choose a treatment that actually suits your skin. Your skin type, current concerns, and desired results all play a role in finding the right option.

Here are some of the most common facial types, what each treatment does, and who may benefit.

Classic Facial

A classic facial is a straightforward, customizable treatment that typically combines cleansing, exfoliation, a mask, moisturizing, and sometimes gentle extractions or massage.

It is often a practical starting point if you want regular skin maintenance without a more intensive treatment.

A classic facial may help:

Cleanse the skin and remove surface buildup.
Exfoliate dead skin cells for a smoother feel and appearance.
Clear mild congestion when appropriate extractions are included.
Improve hydration and leave the skin feeling softer and refreshed.

Hydra Facial

A hydrafacial treatment is a non-invasive, device-based treatment that combines cleansing, exfoliation, gentle extraction, and hydration in one session.

It uses a specialized handpiece to remove surface buildup and impurities while infusing the skin with hydrating serums.

The benefits of a hydrafacial include:

Remove dead skin cells for a smoother-looking complexion.
Clear pore buildup through gentle suction and extraction.
Boost skin hydration with targeted serums.
Improve the appearance of dullness and uneven texture for a fresher-looking glow.

Acne Facial

As the name suggests, it is the best facial for acne, addressing blemishes, excess oil, and clogged pores without putting unnecessary stress on breakout-prone skin.

Depending on the skin’s condition, it may include gentle cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, a targeted mask, and soothing products.

An acne facial is useful to:

Clear clogged pores and remove surface buildup.
Reduce excess oil that can contribute to congestion.
Soothe irritated skin with calming, targeted products.
Improve the appearance of blemishes while supporting cleaner-looking skin.

Brightening Facial

A brightening facial often uses ingredients such as vitamin C to improve the appearance of dull or uneven-looking skin.

Among the different types of facials, the Vitamin C facial option focuses on refreshing the complexion and supporting a more even, radiant appearance.

A brightening facial may help:

Refresh dull-looking skin and improve its overall radiance.
Support a more even-looking skin tone.
Improve the appearance of mild pigmentation and unevenness.
Leave the skin feeling smoother and more refreshed.

Anti-Aging Facial

An anti-aging facial addresses visible signs of skin aging, such as fine lines, uneven texture, and loss of firmness.

It involves exfoliation, massage, masks, and targeted skincare ingredients to support smoother, healthier-looking skin.

This facial can help:

Soften the appearance of fine lines and improve skin texture.
Support firmer-looking skin with targeted skincare products.
Smooth rough or uneven texture through controlled exfoliation.
Improve overall radiance for a fresher-looking complexion.

Chemical Peel Facial

A chemical peel facial uses a solution containing exfoliating acids to loosen and remove damaged surface skin cells.

The type and strength of the peel can be adjusted to suit different skin concerns and sensitivity levels.

It can be a good option if you want to:

Smooth rough or uneven skin texture.
Reduce the look of mild pigmentation and uneven tone.
Improve the appearance of some acne and clogged pores.
Give dull-looking skin a fresher, more even appearance.

Dermaplaning Facial

Dermaplaning is a manual exfoliation treatment that uses a sterile blade to gently remove dead skin cells and fine vellus hair from the skin’s surface.

It leaves skin feeling smoother and creates a clean, even base for skincare products and makeup.

Why do people choose dermaplaning?

Skin feels noticeably smoother after treatment.
Fine facial hair is removed for a cleaner-looking finish.
Skincare products can spread more evenly across the skin.
The complexion may look brighter and more polished.

Microdermabrasion Facial

Microdermabrasion facial is a controlled exfoliation treatment that gently buffs away the outermost layer of dead skin cells using a specialized device.

It can be adjusted to suit the skin and is commonly used when the complexion feels rough, looks uneven, or has lost some of its natural smoothness.

It may be worth considering when you want to:

Refine rough, uneven texture for softer-feeling skin.
Minimize the look of enlarged pores and surface imperfections.
Improve the appearance of mild acne scars over a series of treatments.
Create a smoother-looking complexion without the deeper peel of more intensive resurfacing procedures.

LED Light Facial

An LED light facial uses specific wavelengths of light to work with the skin without needles, chemicals, or abrasive exfoliation.

Different wavelengths serve different purposes, with red light commonly used for signs of aging and blue light often used for acne-prone skin.

Depending on the light used, it may:

Calm the look of redness and leave the skin feeling more comfortable.
Support collagen production to help maintain firmer-looking skin.
Help manage acne-causing bacteria when used on acne-prone skin.
Encourage a healthier-looking complexion without the peeling associated with stronger exfoliating treatments.

Oxygen Facial

An oxygen facial uses a pressurized stream or specialized device to apply oxygen and skincare products to the skin's surface.

It is generally chosen for a quick refresh when the complexion looks tired, dull, or dehydrated.

You may notice:

A dewier-looking complexion after treatment.
Temporary plumping that can make fine lines appear less noticeable.
Skin that feels softer and more comfortable, particularly when hydration is lacking.
A fresh, rested appearance without significant downtime.

Lymphatic Drainage Facial

A lymphatic drainage facial uses light, rhythmic massage techniques across the face and neck to encourage the movement of lymph fluid.

The gentle pressure can help reduce temporary puffiness and give the face a more relaxed, refreshed appearance.

This gentle approach may help with:

Reducing temporary facial puffiness, especially around the eyes and cheeks.
Defining facial contours by easing fluid buildup.
Releasing facial tension through slow, soothing massage.
Creating a refreshed, less tired-looking appearance after the treatment.

Sensitive Skin Facial

A sensitive skin facial takes a gentler approach, using mild products and techniques selected to minimize irritation.

It is designed for skin that tends to react easily to products, temperature changes, friction, or stronger exfoliating treatments.

A well-suited sensitive skin facial can:

Ease tightness or discomfort in reactive skin.
Support the skin barrier with gentle, nourishing products.
Reduce the chance of post-treatment irritation by avoiding unnecessarily harsh steps.
Leave sensitive skin feeling calm and balanced rather than overworked.

Men's Facial

A men's facial is tailored to common skincare needs such as excess oil, clogged pores, rough texture, or irritation after shaving.

Different men's facial types can include cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, a mask, and moisturizing, depending on the skin's condition.

It can be useful for:

Removing buildup from sweat, oil, and daily grime.
Smoothing skin affected by regular shaving.
Keeping pores clearer when congestion is a concern.
Improving overall skin comfort with appropriate hydration and moisturization.

Which Facial Is Best for Your Skin Type? (insert a table)

The right facial depends largely on how your skin behaves and what it needs most.

Different skin types respond differently to different facial treatments, so choosing one based on your skin’s oiliness, dryness, sensitivity, or maturity can help you get more suitable results.

Oily Skin

If your skin tends to look shiny or feel greasy, choose a facial that manages excess oil without drying it out. A facial for oily skin, such as an acne facial or microdermabrasion, can also help with clogged pores and buildup.

Dry Skin

Dry skin usually responds better to treatments that focus on moisture rather than strong exfoliation. A classic facial or an oxygen facial can work well as a facial for dry skin when your complexion feels tight, rough, or dehydrated.

Combination Skin

Combination skin has both oily and dry areas, so it needs a balanced approach. A classic facial or hydrafacial can be tailored to provide facial care for combination skin without leaving drier areas feeling stripped.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin needs gentle products and techniques that minimize irritation. A facial for sensitive skin, like a teen acne facial or LED light facial, should focus on calming and hydration rather than intensive exfoliation or aggressive treatments.

Normal Skin

Normal skin is generally well balanced, so you have more flexibility when choosing among different kinds of facials. A classic facial works well for routine care, while a brightening facial can help when you want a facial for rejuvenation.

Mature Skin

Mature skin often benefits from a facial for aging skin that focuses on hydration, texture, and visible fine lines. An anti-aging facial with gentle exfoliation can help the skin look smoother and more refreshed.

Skin Type	Facial
Oily	Acne/microdermabrasion
Dry	Classic or oxygen
Combination	Hydrafacial
Sensitive	Teen acne or LED light
Normal	Brightening (Vitamin C)
Mature	Anti-aging

Which Facial Is Best for Your Skin Concern?

The right facial depends on what you want to improve. Instead of choosing a treatment by name alone, consider the specific concern you want the facial to address.

Here’s a closer look at which treatment may suit each common skin concern:

Acne

An acne facial is suited to breakouts, excess oil, and congestion. It may combine gentle exfoliation, targeted products, and careful extractions to keep acne-prone skin clearer.

Dull Skin

A brightening facial can refresh skin that looks tired or lacks radiance. Vitamin C and gentle exfoliation can improve the appearance of dullness, making it a useful facial for glowing skin.

Uneven Skin Tone

A chemical peel facial can help with uneven skin tone and visible dark spots. It provides controlled exfoliation to improve the appearance of pigmentation, making it a suitable facial for pigmentation.

Clogged Pores

A hydrafacial can be a good facial for clogged pores because it combines cleansing, exfoliation, and gentle extraction. It can help remove surface buildup while replenishing moisture.

Fine Lines and Wrinkles

An anti-aging facial focuses on fine lines, dryness, and changes in skin texture. Hydrating products and gentle exfoliation can leave the skin looking smoother and more refreshed.

Types of Facials at a Glance

Choosing between different types of facial treatments can feel confusing when each one targets something different.

This quick comparison shows what each facial focuses on and which skin concerns it may suit.

Type of Facial	Main Focus	Commonly Suited For
Classic Facial	Cleansing, exfoliation, hydration	General skin maintenance
HydraFacial	Cleansing, extraction, hydration	Congestion, dullness, dehydration
Acne Facial	Oil control and pore care	Acne-prone skin and breakouts
Brightening Facial	Radiance and tone	Dull or uneven-looking skin
Anti-Aging Facial	Hydration, texture, fine lines	Mature or aging skin
Chemical Peel Facial	Controlled chemical exfoliation	Uneven tone, pigmentation, rough texture
Dermaplaning Facial	Surface exfoliation and hair removal	Dullness and uneven texture
Microdermabrasion Facial	Mechanical exfoliation	Rough texture and surface imperfections
LED Light Facial	Light-based skin care	Acne-prone skin and visible signs of aging
Oxygen Facial	Hydration and skin refreshment	Dull or dehydrated skin
Lymphatic Drainage Facial	Gentle facial massage	Puffiness and facial tension
Sensitive Skin Facial	Calming and gentle care	Easily irritated or reactive skin
Men’s Facial	Cleansing and targeted skin care	Men’s individual skin concerns

Facial vs Chemical Peel vs Dermaplaning vs Microdermabrasion

These treatments all improve the skin’s appearance, but they work in different ways and suit different concerns.

Knowing how they differ can help you choose the right level of treatment for your skin.

Treatment	How It Works	Best Suited For
Facial	Cleanses, exfoliates, hydrates, and may include extractions or a mask.	Routine care, dryness, dullness, and mild congestion
Chemical Peel	Uses exfoliating acids to remove damaged surface skin cells.	Uneven tone, pigmentation, acne, and rough texture
Dermaplaning	Uses a sterile blade to remove dead skin cells and fine facial hair.	Dullness, rough texture, and smoother-looking skin
Microdermabrasion	Gently buffs away the outer layer of dead skin cells with a specialized device.	Rough texture, enlarged pores, and surface imperfections

How to Prepare for a Facial?

A little preparation can make your facial more comfortable and help your skin handle the treatment better. Keep your routine simple beforehand, especially if the facial includes exfoliation or extractions.

Before your appointment, keep these simple steps in mind:

Know your skin concerns: Tell your esthetician about dryness, breakouts, sensitivity, or anything else you want to address.
Avoid harsh exfoliation: Skip scrubs and strong exfoliating products before your facial to avoid unnecessary irritation.
Keep skincare gentle: Stick to your usual cleanser and moisturizer rather than introducing new or potentially irritating products right before treatment.
Protect your skin from the sun: Avoid unnecessary sun exposure before your appointment, as recently irritated or sunburned skin may not tolerate treatment well.
Share your skincare routine: Let your skincare professional know about retinoids, acids, acne treatments, medications, or recent cosmetic procedures so they can choose suitable techniques.
Arrive with clean skin: Remove makeup and avoid heavy products before your appointment so the skin can be properly assessed and treated.
Ask what to avoid: Preparation can vary depending on the facial, so follow any specific instructions your skincare professional gives.

What to Do After a Facial?

Your skin may look fresh after a facial but feel slightly sensitive for a while. Simple aftercare can help keep it comfortable and protect the results.

Follow these simple steps after your treatment:

Keep your routine gentle: Use a mild cleanser and avoid rubbing or scrubbing your skin.
Moisturize regularly: Apply a gentle moisturizer to keep your skin soft and hydrated.
Use sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and limit direct sun exposure.
Skip strong active ingredients: Pause retinoids, acids, and other irritating products as advised by your esthetician.
Avoid extra exfoliation: Skip scrubs, exfoliating brushes, and other resurfacing products while your skin settles.
Follow professional advice: Stick to the aftercare instructions recommended for your specific facial.
Watch for unusual irritation: Mild redness can happen, but seek medical advice if irritation or swelling persists or worsens.

Are Facials Safe for Everyone?

Facials are usually safe for most people when the treatment suits their skin, and a trained professional performs it.

However, sensitive or irritated skin may need a gentler approach. Certain medications, active breakouts, sunburn, or recent cosmetic procedures can also affect which facial is appropriate.

Always share your skin concerns and current skincare routine before treatment. Your esthetician can then adjust the products and techniques to keep the facial comfortable and suitable for your skin.

Give Your Skin the Facial It Actually Needs

With so many types of facials to choose from, finding the right one starts with understanding your skin type and concerns. The right treatment can give your skin the care it needs without adding unnecessary steps to your routine.

At On the Side Day Spa, our skincare professionals can help you choose a facial based on your skin’s needs and your treatment goals.

Explore our facial treatments and find the right one for your skin and its concerns.

FAQs

1. What are the most common types of facials?

Common options include classic facials, hydrafacials, acne facials,
brightening facials, anti-aging facials, chemical peels,
dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, and LED facials. Each treatment
works differently. Your skin type, current concerns, and desired
results can help determine which option makes the most sense for you.

2. Which facial is best for oily skin?

An acne facial can work well for oily skin. It helps remove excess
oil, surface buildup, and clogged pores without relying on overly
harsh cleansing. Your esthetician can adjust the treatment based on
how oily, congested, or sensitive your skin is.

3. Which facial is best for dry skin?

A hydrafacial can be a good choice for dry skin. It focuses on
cleansing and replenishing moisture without aggressive exfoliation.
If your skin feels tight, flaky, or rough, a hydration-focused facial
may leave it feeling softer and more comfortable.

4. Which facial is best for sensitive skin?

An LED light facial is ideal for sensitive skin because it is gentle
and does not involve needles, harsh exfoliation, or abrasive
techniques. The treatment uses specific wavelengths of light and can
be adjusted based on your skin’s needs and concerns.

5. What facial is best for acne-prone skin?

An acne facial can be a suitable option for acne-prone skin. It may
include gentle exfoliation, targeted products, and careful
extractions to address congestion. If you have severe, painful, or
persistent acne, speak with a dermatologist about appropriate
treatment options.

6. What are the different types of facials for men?

Men can choose from many of the same facial treatments available to
women. Popular options include classic facials, hydrafacials, acne
facials, brightening facials, and LED facials. The treatment can be
tailored to concerns such as excess oil, clogged pores, rough
texture, or shaving irritation.

7. What is the difference between a classic facial and a hydrafacial?

A classic facial usually combines cleansing, exfoliation, masking,
moisturizing, and optional extractions. A hydrafacial uses a
specialized device to cleanse, exfoliate, extract, and hydrate the
skin. The main difference is the technique and equipment used during
the treatment.

8. How often should you get a facial?

Many people get a facial every four to six weeks. This schedule
allows time between treatments while supporting regular skin care.
However, the ideal frequency depends on your skin type, concerns,
treatment intensity, and your esthetician’s recommendations.

9. How long does a facial take?

Most facials take about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the treatment
and steps involved. A basic facial may take less time, while
treatments with extractions or advanced techniques can take longer.
Your provider can give you a more specific timeframe before your
appointment.

10. Do facials have side effects?

Yes, facials can sometimes cause mild redness, dryness, tightness, or
temporary sensitivity. These effects usually settle quickly. Stronger
treatments may cause more noticeable reactions. Following your
esthetician’s aftercare instructions can help minimize irritation
and support your skin afterward.

11. Can facials help with acne?

Yes, some facials can help manage mild acne and clogged pores.
Acne-focused treatments may include gentle exfoliation, targeted
products, and appropriate extractions. However, facials are not a
replacement for medical acne treatment, especially for persistent,
painful, or severe breakouts.

12. Can I get a facial if I have sensitive skin?

Yes, you can get a facial if you have sensitive skin, but choosing
the right treatment matters. A gentle option such as an LED light
facial may be more comfortable. Tell your esthetician about your
sensitivity beforehand so they can adjust the treatment accordingly.

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