
Dr. Batul Patel (Dermatologist)
Medical Director – The Bombay Skin Clinic
Dr. Batul Patel is an award winning dermatologist honored as the “Dermatologist of the Year 2023” at the national level by The Economic Times. View profile
What is an Anti-Ageing Facial | Benefits of Anti-Ageing Facials | Who Should Get Anti-Ageing Facials | Downtime & Results | Price |
Fine lines, uneven texture and dullness are often the first signs that your skin is starting to age faster than you would like. In a city like Mumbai, constant sun exposure, pollution, long commutes and stress can speed up this process, a pattern known as photoageing.[1,2]
Anti-ageing facials at The Bombay Skin Clinic are dermatologist-designed, medical grade facials (often called medi-facials) created to support healthier, smoother and more radiant skin as you age. They are not a replacement for medical treatments, but they can be an important part of a supervised anti-ageing plan that may also include home care, peels, lasers or injectables where appropriate.
What is an anti-ageing facial?
An anti-ageing facial is a structured, clinic-based treatment that uses professional exfoliation, skin-renewing serums and targeted technologies to improve skin quality and early signs of ageing. At our Mumbai clinics, these facials are always planned by a dermatologist and performed by trained therapists under supervision.
The focus is on improving overall skin health and appearance in a safe, stepwise manner rather than promising dramatic or permanent changes.
How is a dermatologist-designed medi-facial different from a salon facial?
Medi-facials at The Bombay Skin Clinic differ from regular spa or salon facials in several ways:
- They are customised after an in-clinic skin assessment by a dermatologist.
- Protocols use evidence-backed actives and medical devices rather than only massage and basic creams.
- Steps are adapted for different Indian skin types, pigmentation tendencies and sensitivity levels.
- Hygiene standards, single-use disposables and device sterilisation are strictly followed.
- They are often integrated into a larger treatment plan that may include peels, lasers or injectables if needed.
Which signs of ageing can an anti-ageing facial address?
Depending on the exact protocol chosen for you, anti-ageing facials may help with:
- Mild to moderate dullness and loss of radiance.
- Early fine lines and subtle wrinkles.
- Mild textural irregularities and roughness.
- Mild blotchiness and uneven tone from sun exposure.
- Dehydration and a tired, “stressed” look.
For deeper wrinkles, significant sagging or marked pigmentation, your dermatologist will explain when other procedures are more suitable and how facials can support those treatments rather than replace them.
Key advantages of anti-ageing facials
Skin quality and radiance benefits
By combining controlled exfoliation, lymphatic drainage and active ingredients, anti-ageing facials can support:
- Smoother and softer skin texture.
- A fresher, more rested look after a few sessions.
- Better makeup hold and less visible dryness.
- Improved blood circulation and a subtle glow.
Support for fine lines, early wrinkles and texture
Superficial exfoliation and gentle chemical peeling can improve the look of fine lines and roughness by promoting skin turnover and collagen remodelling at the surface layer.[3,4] These changes are usually gradual and depend on your skin type, lifestyle and home care.
Hydration, barrier repair and glow
Many anti-ageing facial protocols include hydrating serums, humectants and barrier-supporting ingredients. These help:
- Reduce the feeling of tightness and dryness.
- Restore a healthier skin barrier after sun and pollution exposure.
- Give a dewy, plump look for a few days after the session.
Who typically chooses anti-ageing facials?
- Are in their late 20s, 30s or 40s and noticing early lines and mild dullness.
- Have busy lives and prefer low-downtime, non-invasive treatments.
- Want clinic-grade care that feels more scientific than a spa facial.
- Are already on an anti-ageing plan and want supportive, maintenance sessions.
Are you a good candidate?
Who anti-ageing facials may be suitable for
You may be a suitable candidate if:
- You have mild to moderate signs of ageing such as fine lines, early laxity or dullness.
- Your skin is generally healthy, with no active infections or uncontrolled conditions.
- You are comfortable with gradual, realistic changes rather than quick fixes.
- You are ready to follow basic aftercare and sun protection advice.
When we advise caution or postpone treatment
We may delay or modify an anti-ageing facial if you have:
- Active skin infections, open wounds or cold sores on the face.
- Severe acne flares or inflamed rosacea.
- A recent strong peel, laser session or surgery on the treated area.
- A history of allergies to skincare products or strong sensitivity to multiple actives.
In such situations, your dermatologist will stabilise the skin first and then decide if and when a facial is appropriate.
When other anti-ageing treatments may be better than a facial
In some cases, facials alone will not be enough. Your dermatologist may recommend additional options if you have:
- Deep static wrinkles that are visible even at rest.
- Noticeable jowls or significant laxity along the jawline and neck.
- Prominent age spots or deep pigment patches.
- Scars and deeper texture changes.
In these situations, treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, energy-based devices, injectables or surgery may be more effective, with facials used as supportive care.
How an anti-ageing facial works on the skin
Core steps in a medical anti-ageing facial
Protocols vary, but a typical anti-ageing facial at The Bombay Skin Clinic may include:
- Gentle cleansing and assessment of the skin on the day.
- Exfoliation using microdermabrasion, hydradermabrasion or a mild peel, if suitable.
- Targeted extraction only where needed and appropriate.
- Application of antioxidant, peptide, brightening or collagen-supporting serums.
- Soothing masks or LED therapy, depending on your plan.
- Finishing steps with moisturiser and broad-spectrum sunscreen.
The aim is to improve cell turnover, support collagen and enhance hydration without aggressive or harsh steps.
Actives and technologies that may be used
Depending on your skin assessment, we may use:
- Mild chemical peels such as low-strength alpha- or beta-hydroxy acids to support texture and pigment concerns.[3,4]
- Hydradermabrasion to combine exfoliation with infusion of hydrating and antioxidant serums.
- Low-level LED light therapy as a supportive option for redness and overall tone.
- Serums containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, antioxidants and barrier-supporting lipids.
The exact combination is chosen by your dermatologist after considering your age, lifestyle, home routine and previous procedures.
How protocols are personalised for Indian skin tones
Ageing patterns in Indian skin can differ from those in lighter skin types. There is often a stronger tendency towards pigmentation, under-eye changes and mid-face volume loss rather than very early fine wrinkling.[6] Our protocols at The Bombay Skin Clinic are designed to respect these differences.
We:
- Use conservative settings and milder actives in pigmentation-prone skin.
- Prefer stepwise treatment, especially if you have a history of tanning or melasma.
- Balance brightening and exfoliation with barrier repair and hydration.
Downtime, side effects and safety
Typical downtime in the first 24–72 hours
Most dermatologist-supervised anti-ageing facials have minimal downtime, especially when superficial peels and gentle technologies are used. You may notice for one to three days:
- Mild redness or warmth immediately after the session.
- Slight dryness or tightness the next day.
- Occasional light flaking if a peel was included.[5]
These changes are usually temporary and settle with moisturiser and sun protection.
Common, temporary side effects
Short-lived effects may include:
- Redness in areas where extractions or devices were used.
- Temporary sensitivity to some products.
- Very mild swelling in a few patients.
Your therapist will guide you on what is expected and what is not, and when to contact the clinic.
What results to expect and realistic timelines
Changes you may notice after the first session
After your first anti-ageing facial, many patients notice:
- Smoother and cleaner-feeling skin.
- Mild brightness and a fresher look within 24–72 hours.
- Better makeup application and less dullness.
These are usually subtle changes rather than dramatic transformations.
How results build over a few sessions and months
With a series of sessions and proper home care, patients may see:
- Gradual improvement in texture and mild fine lines.
- More even tone when facials are combined with targeted treatments.
- Healthier, more resilient skin that copes better with Mumbai’s climate and pollution.
Timelines vary widely, and results depend on age, lifestyle, sun exposure, smoking, stress and medical conditions.[1,2]
What anti-ageing facials cannot do (and when you may need lasers, injectables or surgery)
Anti-ageing facials have limitations. They cannot:
- Lift very saggy skin or correct advanced jowls.
- Erase deep wrinkles or strongly etched lines.
- Replace the effects of well-performed lasers, injectables or surgical procedures.
When these concerns are present, your dermatologist will discuss a broader anti-ageing plan. Facials can still play a role as supportive care before, between or after these treatments.
Aftercare: how to look after your skin post facial
Simple aftercare checklist for the first 48–72 hours
After your anti-ageing facial, we usually recommend:
- Using a gentle cleanser and bland moisturiser as advised.
- Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen daily and reapplying when outdoors.
- Avoiding hot showers, steam and saunas on the same day.
- Not picking or scrubbing at any flaking skin.
Products and habits to avoid after an anti-ageing facial
For a few days after your session, you may be asked to pause:
- Strong exfoliating scrubs and home peels.
- High-strength retinoids or acids, unless your dermatologist advises otherwise.
- Waxing or threading on treated areas.
- Extended, unprotected sun exposure.
Daily skincare and lifestyle tips to maintain results
To maintain results from your anti-ageing facials, your dermatologist may suggest:
- Consistent daily sunscreen use with other sun protective behaviours such as seeking shade and using protective clothing.[2]
- A simple but regular home routine tailored to your skin type.
- Healthy lifestyle habits such as adequate sleep, stress management, balanced diet and avoiding smoking.[1]
These steps help slow further photoageing and support long-term skin health.
How do anti-ageing facials compare with other treatments?
Anti-ageing facial vs chemical peels and laser treatments
Anti-ageing facials are generally gentler than stand-alone chemical peels or lasers. While superficial peels can be part of a medi-facial, dedicated peel or laser sessions are usually stronger procedures used to treat more defined concerns such as scars, deeper pigment or marked lines.[3,4]
Facials can be a good introduction to clinic treatments or a maintenance option between more intensive procedures.
Anti-ageing facial vs Botox, fillers and other injectable procedures
Botox, fillers and other injectables act at different levels of the skin and underlying muscles. They are usually chosen for:
- Dynamic wrinkles, such as frown lines and crow’s feet.
- Volume loss in areas like cheeks, lips or under-eyes.
Anti-ageing facials cannot replace these effects. Instead, they support skin quality on the surface, which can complement injectable treatments when both are appropriate.
When we combine facials with other anti-ageing treatments at our clinic
At The Bombay Skin Clinic, facials are often integrated with:
- Dermatologist-prescribed anti-ageing skincare.
- Peels, microneedling or lasers for scars and pigmentation.
- Injectables for lines and volume loss where suitable.
Your dermatologist will create a phased plan so that treatments complement each other and fit your schedule and comfort level.
Why choose The Bombay Skin Clinic for anti-ageing facials?
Dermatologist-led care and Dr Batul Patel’s expertise
The Bombay Skin Clinic is a dermatologist-led centre with branches in Kemps Corner (South Mumbai), Bandra, Andheri and Chembur. All anti-ageing facial protocols are designed or approved by our dermatology team, led by Dr Batul Patel, who has extensive experience in anti-ageing, pigmentation and laser dermatology.
This ensures that your facial is not just a beauty treatment but part of a considered medical approach to skin ageing.
Advanced technologies and customised medi-facials for ageing skin
Our clinics offer a wide range of medi-facials and supportive technologies that can be combined for ageing skin, including hydradermabrasion, laser facials and signature anti-ageing protocols. Your plan is customised based on:
- Your age and stage of ageing.
- Your main concerns, such as dullness, lines, pigmentation or laxity.
- How often you can visit and your budget.
Hygiene, safety and protocol-driven treatment rooms
Each treatment room follows strict hygiene standards with:
- Single-use disposables where appropriate.
- Device disinfection and sterilisation protocols.
- Clear documentation of each step of your treatment.
Our team is trained to recognise and escalate any concerns to the dermatologist quickly.
Indicative starting price range at The Bombay Skin Clinic
As an indicative range, anti-ageing medi-facial sessions typically start from Rs. 4,500. The exact estimate is shared after your consultation, once the doctor has confirmed which protocol and number of sessions are appropriate for your skin.
Frequently asked questions about anti-ageing facials
At what age should I start anti-ageing facials?
There is no fixed age. The more important factor is your skin condition, lifestyle and goals. Your dermatologist will help you understand whether you need anti-ageing facials yet or whether simple skincare changes are enough for now.
How often should I do an anti-ageging facial for best results?
Many patients do a series of facials every four to eight weeks initially, then shift to maintenance sessions every one to three months. The right frequency for you will depend on how your skin behaves, your budget and how many other treatments you are doing in parallel.
Can I get an anti-ageing facial just before a big event or function?
Yes, but timing matters. For most people, doing the facial about five to seven days before a major event gives time for mild redness or flaking (if any) to settle and for the glow to appear.
Can men also opt for anti-ageing facials at The Bombay Skin Clinic?
Yes. We see many male patients from across Mumbai who opt for medi-facials focused on dullness, roughness, post-shave issues and early ageing. Men’s skin can be thicker and oilier, so protocols are adjusted accordingly.
Our team is experienced in designing anti-ageing facials that respect beard areas, shaving routines and specific male concerns.
References
- Cleveland Clinic. Sun-damaged Skin (Photoaging). my.clevelandclinic.org. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5240-sun-damage-protecting-yourself
- World Health Organization. Radiation: Protecting against skin cancer. who.int. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/radiation-protecting-against-skin-cancer
- American Academy of Dermatology. Chemical peels: Overview. aad.org. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/younger-looking/chemical-peels-overview
- Soleymani T, Lanoue J, Rahman Z. A practical approach to chemical peels: A review of fundamentals and step-by-step algorithmic protocol for treatment. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30214663/
- American Academy of Dermatology. Chemical peels: FAQs. aad.org. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/younger-looking/chemical-peels-faqs
- Shome D, Vadera S, Khare S, et al. Aging and the Indian Face: An Analytical Study of Aging in the Asian Indian Face. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2020;8(3):e2580. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32537318/

Dr. Batul Patel (Dermatologist)
Medical Director – The Bombay Skin Clinic
Dr. Batul Patel is an award winning dermatologist honored as the “Dermatologist of the Year 2023” at the national level by The Economic Times. View profile




