It’s real. Clients do see an immediate “glow” to their skin post-facial.  However, it is temporary.  It is a result of the suction from the vacuuming process bringing good blood flow to the skin and will last a few hours.  You can get the same effect from a workout or brisk walk.  If a patient receives the peel portion, that process can give a lovely glow to the skin that may last for 24-36 hours. What about that nasty water in the reservoir after a facial? It is a popular Instagram practice to post pictures of your dirty water after a Hydrafacial.  People love to think that all of the “gunk” came directly out of their pores, however, if you start your treatment with any lotions, creams, sunscreen or make-up on your face, those will all end up in the reservoir.  Even if you start out with a freshly cleansed face, the peel solutions will be sucked into the reservoir, giving it a dirty appearance.  Unfortunately, the suction of the machine does not pull debris from your pores.  The improvements you see in your skin are from increased blood flow (from the suction), the exfoliation and peels, which increase cell turnover and purge the skin.