The Platinum HydraFacial, the ABK way: every step explained
What happens during a Platinum HydraFacial at ABK SKIN, how it differs from the Express HydraFacial and Hydra-Peel, who it suits and how often to book.
From the ABK SKIN studio
Charlotte, NC
The HydraFacial is one of the most requested facials in the world, and for good reason: it cleans deeply, has no expected downtime and suits almost every skin type. At ABK SKIN, the Platinum HydraFacial is the most complete version on the menu. On Instagram, Katrina calls it the customized Platinum HydraFacial, "ABK way."
This guide walks through every step, so you know exactly what you are booking.
What makes it "Platinum"
A standard HydraFacial focuses on cleansing, exfoliation, extractions and hydration. The Platinum version adds three things at ABK SKIN:
- Lymphatic drainage at the start, to help reduce the look of puffiness.
- A customized booster, chosen for what your skin needs that day.
- LED light therapy to finish.
Step by step
1. Lymphatic drainage
The treatment starts with lymphatic drainage. It helps reduce the look of puffiness and sets a relaxing tone for the rest of the appointment.
2. Deep cleanse and exfoliation
The HydraFacial handpiece cleanses and gently exfoliates, lifting away dead surface cells so the following steps work better.
3. Painless extractions
Instead of manual squeezing, HydraFacial uses vortex suction to clear debris from pores. Most clients find it comfortable.
4. Serum infusion
Hydrating serums are infused into the skin.
5. A customized booster
Your aesthetician chooses a booster for that day's skin, whether the focus is dullness, dehydration, fine lines, congestion or uneven tone. This is where ABK SKIN's customization comes in.
6. LED light therapy
The appointment finishes under LED light.
Who it suits
- All skin types.
- Deep cleansing and pore refinement.
- A monthly reset to keep skin on track.
- Skin prep before an event, since no downtime is expected.
Express, Platinum or Hydra-Peel?
| Treatment | What it includes | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Express HydraFacial | Cleanse, exfoliation, a mild acid step, painless extractions and hydration, in about 45 minutes | $195 |
| Platinum HydraFacial | Everything in the Express plus lymphatic drainage, a customized booster and LED | View current pricing at booking |
| ABK Hydra-Peel | A Platinum HydraFacial layered with a customized chemical peel | $395 |
Choose the Express when you want a quick, deep cleanse. Choose the Platinum for the full experience. Choose the Hydra-Peel when you want added exfoliation and brightness, for example before a special occasion; book it one to two weeks ahead so your skin can settle.
How often to book
Many clients book a HydraFacial monthly. Skin renews itself on a regular cycle, and a monthly treatment keeps congestion and dullness from building up. Your aesthetician can recommend a rhythm that suits your skin and goals.
The Platinum HydraFacial and the ABK SKIN CLUB
The Platinum HydraFacial is one of the monthly treatment options in the ABK SKIN CLUB membership ($199 a month, three-month minimum), alongside the ABK Glow Custom Facial, the Express HydraFacial with dermaplaning and the BioRePeel Brightening Facial. ABK GLOW CLUB members can choose it as their six-month anniversary upgrade. As Katrina puts it on Instagram, the Platinum HydraFacial is "the least we do in the club."
HydraFacial for your body
The same technology works beyond the face. The Keratosis Pilaris Treatment ($350) brings HydraFacial cleansing, exfoliation and hydration to rough, bumpy arms, followed by the ABK Body Treatment.
Before and after your appointment
- Arrive with a clean face if you can, though the treatment begins with cleansing.
- Mention any recent treatments, peels or prescription products.
- Afterwards, keep your routine simple for the rest of the day and wear sunscreen.
About pricing
The Platinum HydraFacial is listed with two different prices across ABK SKIN's current booking menu and older website. Rather than guess, this site shows "View current pricing" until Katrina confirms the amount. The booking page always shows the current price before you confirm.
The takeaway
The Platinum HydraFacial is a thorough, comfortable facial with no expected downtime, customized with a booster chosen for your skin that day. It is a strong monthly foundation for almost any routine.
Frequently asked questions
Does a HydraFacial hurt?
Most clients find it comfortable. The extractions use suction rather than squeezing.
Is there any downtime?
None is expected, which is why the Platinum HydraFacial is popular before events.
How long does it take?
About 60 minutes, according to the ABK SKIN booking menu. The booking page shows the current appointment length.
Can I get a HydraFacial if I have sensitive skin?
It suits all skin types. Mention any sensitivity so your aesthetician can choose the right booster.
What is the difference between a booster and a serum?
Serums are infused during the treatment for hydration; the booster is an added step chosen for your specific concern that day.
Questions about your skin?
Email abkskinn@gmail.com or bring them to your next appointment.
