Laser Facial vs. Traditional Facial: What’s the Difference?

It’s a great question—and the answer depends on what you’re looking for.


Traditional Facials: The Classic Glow Boost

What they are:
Traditional or spa facials typically include cleansing, exfoliation, steam, extractions, masks, and massage. Some may include mild peels or LED light therapy.

What they do well:

  • Hydrate and nourish the skin
  • Clear surface congestion
  • Promote relaxation and circulation
  • Give you that post-facial glow

What they don’t do:

  • Trigger long-term collagen production
  • Reach deep pigmentation or vascular issues
  • Create lasting structural change in the skin

Think of traditional facials like a workout for your skin’s surface—they’re refreshing and beneficial, but mostly focused on short-term maintenance.


Laser Facials: Results with a Capital “R”

What they are:
Laser facials use targeted light energy to penetrate the deeper layers of your skin and stimulate collagen, fade pigment, tighten pores, and smooth texture.

At Erase & Embrace, our laser facials include options like:

  • The Candela PicoWay Resolve for deeper resurfacing (acne scars, fine lines)

What they do well:

  • Treat sun damage and discoloration
  • Boost collagen for smoother, firmer skin
  • Minimize fine lines, large pores, and mild acne scarring
  • Provide long-term, cumulative results

Laser facials are non-invasive and have little to no downtime, but they’re powerful. They’re ideal for people ready to level up their skin game without diving into injectables or heavy resurfacing.


Side-by-Side Comparison
FeatureTraditional FacialLaser Facial
FocusSurface cleansing + hydrationDeep skin renewal + correction
ResultsTemporary glowLong-term skin improvement
Best ForMaintenance, pamperingPigmentation, texture, aging
DowntimeNoneMinimal (redness for 24–48 hrs)
FrequencyMonthlyEvery 4–6 weeks (in a series)
Cost$$$$$ (but more corrective)

Which One Is Right for You?

If you’re not sure whether to stick with spa facials or try a laser facial, ask yourself:

  • Am I happy with my skin’s current condition?
  • Do changes do I want to see in my skin?

For many clients, we start with a laser facial series to correct skin issues, then transition to maintenance facials (or alternate with microneedling). It’s about building a plan around your skin goals.


If you have any other questions, feel free to contact our clinic at 951-540-6524 for more advice or schedule a consultation.

Click here to book appointment.

Click here to check out our google reviews

Click here for more before and after photos

Page Reader Press Enter to Read Page Content Out Loud Press Enter to Pause or Restart Reading Page Content Out Loud Press Enter to Stop Reading Page Content Out Loud Screen Reader Support