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What Is a DiamondGlow Facial? Everything to Know Before You Book

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Published on Aug 22, 2026 • 4 min read
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A non-invasive facial that offers deep exfoliation and immediate glow? Sign us up! We’ve been hearing more about the DiamondGlow facial, and it’s time we dive into it. After all, if you put “diamond” and “glow” in the same sentence, you’ve obviously piqued our interest. And we’re not alone. Chrissy Teigen has been a reported fan, and Madonna and Kesha’s esthetician Edyta Jarosz is known for conducting the treatment.

Allergan Aesthetics technically launched the facial in 2020 under the SKINMEDICA portfolio, but it wasn’t until recently that we’ve seen it everywhere. A simple reason for that is brand awareness efforts, according to esthetician and LA Skin Club founder Caroline Godsick.

“DiamondGlow has significantly expanded its own marketing and education,” the skin pro shares. “This has introduced the treatment to a much broader audience. As more estheticians and practices adopt the technology and share patient results, it's naturally generating more excitement and momentum.”

Board-certified plastic surgeon Michelle Lee, MD, believes it’s grown in popularity for several reasons. “Patients are shifting toward treatments that actively build skin health by working with the skin's natural renewal process,” she explains. “Second, the customizable serum infusion makes it highly versatile for brightening, hydrating, anti-aging, or clarifying. Third, there is zero downtime. In a busy, camera-ready world, a treatment that delivers immediate, visible results with no recovery time is highly appealing.”

If dullness, clogged pores, or rough texture are your biggest skincare concerns, this treatment might deserve a spot on your radar.

It's about glam time you treated yourself.

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MEET THE EXPERT

Caroline Godsick is a Los Angeles-based esthetician and founder of LA Skin Club clinic in West Hollywood.

Michelle Lee, MD, is board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of PERK Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills.

What Is a DiamondGlow Facial?

Now that we've covered why it's trending, let's break down exactly what the treatment does.

“It simultaneously exfoliates, extracts, and infuses the skin with customized, professional-grade serums,” explains Dr. Lee, adding that the treatment typically ranges anywhere from $150 to $300 per session. “A diamond-tipped wand mechanically resurfaces the skin and buffs away dead skin cells, while a vacuum suction clears pore congestion and delivers active ingredients deep into the freshly cleared skin.”

So, what can you immediately expect, following the treatment? “The process leaves the skin smoother, brighter, deeply hydrated, and instantly more radiant while helping improve overall skin health and product absorption,” Godsick says.

DiamondGlow vs. HydraFacial What's the Difference?

If you’re lying on a treatment table, the DiamondGlow can feel much like the process of a HydraFacial. They both include serum application and a suction step, which can create a similar experience. “Both are painless, relaxing, and leave the skin glowing, but the technology differs,” Dr. Lee explains. 

According to our pros, there are key differences between the two treatments. The biggest difference is serum delivery. With DiamondGlow, serums are actively infused into the skin in conjunction with the exfoliation process. With HydraFacial, serums are applied as a final step. The second big difference is the type of exfoliation. 

“HydraFacial uses a vortex-based tip with spiral suction and a chemical solution to loosen debris and deliver serums,” Dr. Lee explains. “DiamondGlow utilizes physical, diamond-tipped exfoliation for mechanical resurfacing alongside suction and infusion.”

Lastly, both offer a different level of exfoliation. “Diamond Glow is ideal for patients seeking significant physical exfoliation, or those dealing with clogged pores and dullness,” Dr. Lee says. “HydraFacial is better suited for sensitive, reactive skin, or for those new to professional treatments.”

Godsick adds: “HydraFacial is a great option for patients seeking a gentle, refreshing treatment focused on cleansing, hydration, and maintenance. It's well-suited for those with sensitive skin, first-time facial patients, or anyone looking for a treatment that leaves the skin feeling clean, hydrated, and glowing.”

Does a DiamondGlow Facial Have Downtime?

DiamondGlow is often considered a "red carpet facial" thanks to its immediate results and zero downtime.

“There is essentially no downtime,” Dr. Lee says. “Most patients experience a healthy flush that fades within an hour or two, making it easy to return to daily activities immediately. Sensitive skin types may experience mild redness for a few hours. The skin can be slightly more sensitive to the sun right after the procedure, so we always recommend applying SPF and avoiding direct sun exposure for the rest of the day.” 

“Most patients can return to their normal activities the same day, making DiamondGlow an excellent ‘lunchtime’ treatment or a great option before a big event,” adds Godsick.

How to Get the Best Results From a DiamondGlow Facial

While it may seem obvious, both of our experts point out that consistency is key when maintaining and extending your results from their treatment. 

“While a single treatment is beneficial, a series spaced four to six weeks apart provides cumulative skin transformation,” Dr. Lee says. “For home care, keeping the skin hydrated extends the glow. Patients should avoid active exfoliants like retinoids or acids for a day or two post-treatment, and daily sunscreen is non-negotiable to protect the resurfaced skin.”

Taking exfoliation to the next level, Godsick incorporates dermaplaning into the beginning of each DiamondGlow session “to create a smoother surface for optimal exfoliation and serum infusion,” she says. “I also finish each treatment with LED light therapy to help calm the skin and support the healing process. A personalized at-home skincare routine and daily sunscreen are equally important to maintain your results between treatments.”

Is a DiamondGlow Facial Worth It?

For anyone looking for refreshed skin with immediate results, the DiamondGlow facial offers immediate results. Thanks to a diamond-tip resurfacing wand, dull skin and clogged pores are revived. This is accompanied by the infusion of customized serums that infuse the skin as deep, physical exfoliation takes place. The end result? Glowy, event-ready skin with zero downtime.DiamondGlow may be a better choice for people seeking more intensive physical exfoliation, while HydraFacial can be a great option for sensitive skin.

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UP NEXT: The Ultimate Guide to Types of Facials: 9 Treatments to Level Up Your Skin

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