"I am so thrilled with the results from my recent procedures with Dr. Nina. Initially I was prescribed a bespoke skin care plan using medical grade products from which I began to see immediate results. On Dr Nina’s advice I then returned for Botox, Profhilo and Endolift. She has such a wonderful Calm,friendly and reassuring nature that makes you feel completely at ease. The procedures were painless which is a definite credit to her skill and expertise. The results have been amazing..... I love the even texture and glow my (Menopausal) skin now has. My saggy jawline has disappeared leaving a firmer, leaner profile. Just wonderful... I can’t recommend Dr Nina and her Team highly enough."
Treatments · Skin Health
Aquagold Facial
A luxury 24-carat gold micro-infusion facial that delivers a bespoke blend of skincare just beneath the surface for an instant, refined glow — performed at Facial Sculpting, Dr Nina Bal’s doctor-led South Kensington clinic, to refresh skin quality, smooth texture and brighten the complexion with minimal downtime.
- Treatment
- 24-carat gold micro-infusion facial
- Best for
- Glow, fine lines, pores, dull or tired skin
- Downtime
- Minimal — mild redness for a few hours
- Sessions
- Often a course of 3–4, ~4 weeks apart
- Results build
- Glow in 3–7 days · lasts ~1–2 months
- From
- £865 per session — skin assessed first
★★★★★ 5.0 on Google
Save Face Platinum accredited
As seen in
Treatment summary
Aquagold Facial at a glance
The Aquagold facial uses a fine-touch device tipped with tiny 24-carat gold needles to micro-infuse a customised cocktail of skincare — which may include micro-doses of botulinum toxin, hyaluronic acid and brightening or antioxidant ingredients — just beneath the skin’s surface. It is designed to refine pores, smooth texture, hydrate and add glow, improving skin quality rather than changing facial structure, and is often repeated as a course.
- What it treats
- Dull or tired skin, enlarged-looking pores, fine lines, superficial scarring
- How it works
- Micro-channelling with 24-carat gold needles infuses a bespoke serum blend
- Areas
- Face; neck and décolletage can be discussed
- Anaesthetic
- Usually none — the gold needles are very fine
- Sessions
- Often a course of 3–4, around 4 weeks apart
- Downtime
- Minimal — usually mild redness for a few hours
- Results & longevity
- Glow in 3–7 days; typically lasts around 1–2 months
- Performed by
- Dr Nina Bal & the Facial Sculpting team
- Price
- From £865 per session — confirmed after a skin assessment
The treatment
What is Aquagold Facial?
The Aquagold facial is a luxury micro-infusion (micro-channelling) treatment that uses a patented, CE-marked, fine-touch device tipped with hair-fine 24-carat gold needles. These tiny needles create micro-channels in the very surface of the skin and, at the same time, deliver a bespoke blend of skincare directly into it — far more comfortably and precisely than applying products on top of the skin. The blend is tailored to your goals and may include micro-doses of botulinum toxin to refine pores and soften fine lines, hyaluronic acid for hydration and smoothness, and brightening or antioxidant ingredients for glow.
Because the needles are so fine and the infusion is superficial, Aquagold is comfortable, quick and has minimal downtime — most people have only mild redness for a few hours and an immediate, refined radiance. It is well suited to dull or tired skin, the look of enlarged pores, fine lines and superficial scarring, and is a popular “red-carpet” glow treatment before events. Results typically appear within 3–7 days and last around 1–2 months, so it is often repeated as a course or as periodic maintenance.
Aquagold is one of several skin-quality treatments — see our skin health treatments for how it compares with options such as SkinPen microneedling or skin boosters like Profhilo®, and the honest limitations below for where another route may suit you better.
Concerns it can help
What does Aquagold Facial address?
The Aquagold facial is designed to refine and refresh skin quality — glow, pores, texture and hydration.
Honest suitability
Is Aquagold Facial right for you?
The Aquagold facial is not for everyone — and we will tell you if it is not the best option for you. Final suitability is always confirmed at consultation.
Often well suited
- Wanting an instant, refined glow with minimal downtime
- Dull or tired skin and the look of enlarged pores
- Fine lines, uneven texture or superficial scarring
- A skin-quality boost before an event or occasion
- Happy to repeat as a course or periodic maintenance
- Realistic expectations of a subtle, glow-led improvement
May not be suitable
- Active or inflamed acne, eczema or rosacea flare in the area
- Active skin infection or a current cold sore outbreak
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding (subject to clinic policy)
- Known allergy to any ingredient in the planned blend
- A history of keloid scarring (assessed individually)
- Expecting volume, lifting or a structural change to the face
The process
How Aquagold Facial works, step by step
- Consultation & skin assessmentDr Nina or the team assess your skin, concerns, medical history and goals, and confirm whether Aquagold is suitable or whether another option is more effective.
- Designing your blendA bespoke cocktail is selected for your skin — which may include micro-doses of botulinum toxin, hyaluronic acid and brightening or antioxidant ingredients.
- Cleanse & prepThe skin is thoroughly cleansed and prepared so the micro-infusion is even and comfortable.
- Micro-infusionThe fine-touch device with 24-carat gold needles is gently stamped across the skin, creating micro-channels and delivering the serum blend into the surface.
- Soothe, protect & reviewThe skin is soothed and protected with SPF, you receive aftercare, and any further sessions in your course are planned.
“A less-is-more philosophy: Aquagold only when it genuinely suits your skin — for a refined, natural glow that still looks like you.”
The Facial Sculpting approach · Dr Nina BalBefore treatment
What happens at your consultation
A consultation and skin assessment are recommended before an Aquagold facial. During your appointment with Dr Nina and her team your skin is assessed, your medical history reviewed and your suitability confirmed. You will be talked through the treatment in detail — what to expect during and after — and given the opportunity to ask questions.
The consultation covers your skin type and concerns, the ingredients in your bespoke blend and any allergies, contraindications, realistic expected outcomes, aftercare and sun protection, and confirmation of your individual plan and price.
Results & recovery
What to expect afterwards
The Aquagold facial involves minimal downtime. Most people have only mild redness or a warm, flushed feeling for a few hours, and many notice an immediate freshness. Because the micro-channels are very superficial, makeup can usually be worn again soon afterwards — though we will advise on timing — and your team provides aftercare guidance, including daily SPF.
Results & longevity: a refined glow typically develops within 3–7 days as the skin responds and any micro-toxin takes effect, and results usually last around 1–2 months. Aquagold is therefore best thought of as a glow-and-quality treatment to repeat periodically rather than a one-off permanent change. Outcomes vary with skin type, the blend used and lifestyle.
Typical results timeline
Day of treatment
Skin can look fresh and dewy, with mild redness for a few hours that settles quickly.
Days 3–7
A refined, brighter glow develops; any micro-toxin effect on pores and fine lines becomes apparent.
~1 month
Skin quality is at its best; this is often when a maintenance session is planned.
~1–2 months
Results gradually soften; periodic treatments keep skin looking refreshed.
Safety
Possible risks & side effects
The Aquagold facial is generally very well tolerated, but as with any micro-channelling or injectable-style treatment there are some possible effects: temporary redness, mild swelling, pinpoint marks or tenderness that usually settle within hours to a day or two. Where micro-doses of botulinum toxin are included, the usual considerations for toxin apply and are discussed in full at consultation.
Careful skin assessment, a sensible blend chosen for you, and an experienced practitioner are important for a safe, natural result. If anything is unexpected after treatment, you can contact the clinic for advice.
Honest limitations
What Aquagold Facial cannot do
- It improves skin quality and glow — it does not add volume or lift the face.
- It works superficially and is not a treatment for deep wrinkles or sagging.
- Results are temporary (around 1–2 months), so periodic treatments are needed.
- It is not a substitute for injectable contouring, skin boosters or laser where those are indicated.
Compare your options
Aquagold Facial vs other approaches
A simple, honest comparison to help you and Dr Nina choose the right skin-health route.
| Approach | Best for | Invasiveness | Downtime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aquagold Facial | Glow, pores & texture (bespoke micro-infusion) | Superficial micro-channelling | Minimal |
| SkinPen | Texture, scars & collagen | Minimally invasive microneedling | Minimal (~1–3 days) |
| Profhilo® | Hydration, firmness & skin quality | Injectable skin booster | Minimal |
| PRX-T33 Peel | Brightening & firming with no peeling | No-needle bio-revitalising peel | None |
| Fire & Ice Facial | A pre-event resurfacing glow | Resurfacing clinical facial | None |
Aquagold pairs well with Dermalux LED to calm and support the skin, and many patients alternate it with skin boosters such as Profhilo® for deeper hydration — the right plan is discussed honestly at consultation.
Transparent pricing
How much does Aquagold Facial cost?
The Aquagold facial is from £865 per session — your skin and bespoke blend are assessed first.
Aquagold Facial
From£865
Single 24-carat gold micro-infusion facial with a bespoke serum blend; often repeated as a course of 3–4.
Book this planThe exact price depends on your individual plan, which is confirmed after your consultation. View the full price list.
Why Facial Sculpting
Aquagold Facial at the Facial Sculpting Clinic
Doctor-led & honest
Skin assessed first. If Aquagold isn’t right for you, we’ll say so and recommend a safer or better option.
Bespoke to your skin
Your micro-infusion blend is designed around your skin and goals — never a one-size-fits-all serum.
Refined, natural glow
A measured, premium treatment for radiance and skin quality, not an overdone or unnatural result.
Dr Nina Bal
Cosmetic Doctor & Founder · South Kensington, London
Patients choose Facial Sculpting for the Aquagold facial because the focus is on careful skin assessment, a thoughtfully designed blend and honest advice — not over-treatment. Dr Nina and her clinical team tailor each micro-infusion to your skin and combine it sensibly with options such as Profhilo®, SkinPen or Dermalux LED where appropriate, alongside a home-care routine to protect your glow.
GDC registeredBCAM memberSave Face PlatinumJCCP
GHP Best Facial Transformation Clinic London 2025Endolift UK Achievement Award 2025Safety in Beauty Best Aesthetic DoctorSafety in Beauty Best Non-Surgical TransformationGHP Best Non-Surgical Aesthetics Studio 2024Aesthetics Awards Finalist 2024Save Face Platinum
Accreditations & recognition
Save Face Platinum accredited
Registered with the General Dental Council
British College of Aesthetic Medicine member
Save Face COVID-19 Operational Protocol Certified
ICO — Information Commissioner's Office
JCCP — Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners
Featured in the Tatler Address Book
Hello! Aesthetics Guide
Safety in Beauty memberTrusted by patients
What our patients say about Facial Sculpting Clinic
Real reviews from patients who chose Dr Nina Bal and the Facial Sculpting team.
5.0
★★★★★
Rated 5.0 by patients on Google
via Google
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Rebecca B.Patient review
★★★★★
Dr Nina’s expertise speaks for itself and I’m thrilled with the results from botox- it’s very subtle and natural, whilst achieving the lift and smoothness I was after. Dr Nina takes the time to listen to your goals and concerns, and is also helping with my skin care. Highly recommend!
Verified patient
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Kimberley O.Patient review
★★★★★
Fantastic service and beautiful results! I had dermal fillers in both the lips and chin, Nina thoroughly understood the results that i was looking for and executed this perfectly. Would highly recommend!
Verified patient
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Sophie J.Patient review
★★★★★
I had a fabulous experience with Dr Nina. I had a Botox treatment which was the best I’ve had. She was very thorough and took time and care during the treatment to tailor it to my exact needs. I will certainly be returning for more treatments! A true professional who really knows her stuff.
Verified patient
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Ayse A.Patient review
★★★★★
I will like to thank Dr Nina and her lovely team for being very welcoming today. I’m extremely happy with the results.I got 1ml lip enhancement done today. My lips look very natural with a volume (just what I wanted).I’m very happy with the results, this has made my day and I will definitely recommend Dr Nina. I will be returning in the future. Thank you Dr Nina once again.
Verified patient
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Victoria C.Patient review
★★★★★
I visited Dr Nina Bal recently for lip fillers, the surgery located in Belgravia was so beautiful and very high end! The surgery itself was very covid aware with plenty of sanitiser stations and every employee was wearing a mask and gloves. Dr Nina made me feel very comfortable and the procedure was quick and easy. She had a lovely energy and really cared for me as a patient, which made the experience so much more positive. Thanks again for my lovely lip fillers, they’re so natural and much more voluminous than before. Super happy, couldn’t recommend Dr Nina Bal more
Verified patient
Your questions
Aquagold Facial FAQs
What is an Aquagold facial?
The Aquagold facial is a luxury micro-infusion treatment that uses a fine-touch device tipped with tiny 24-carat gold needles to deliver a bespoke blend of skincare just beneath the surface of the skin. The blend may include micro-doses of botulinum toxin, hyaluronic acid and brightening or antioxidant ingredients, tailored to refine pores, smooth texture, hydrate and add glow.
How is the Aquagold facial different from microneedling?
Both create micro-channels in the skin, but Aquagold uses extremely fine 24-carat gold needles and, at the same time, infuses a customised serum blend directly into the surface — which makes it more comfortable and focused on superficial glow and skin quality. Medical microneedling such as SkinPen works deeper to remodel texture, scarring and collagen. Dr Nina will advise which suits your goals.
How much does an Aquagold facial cost in London?
The Aquagold facial at Facial Sculpting is from £865 per session, reflecting the bespoke skincare blend and the single-use 24-carat gold device. For the best results it is often repeated as a course of 3–4 sessions; your exact plan and price are confirmed after a skin assessment.
Is there any downtime after an Aquagold facial?
Downtime is minimal. Most people have only mild redness or a warm, flushed feeling for a few hours afterwards, and many notice an immediate freshness. Because the micro-channels are very superficial, normal activities can usually be resumed straight away; we will advise on when to reapply makeup and SPF.
Does the Aquagold facial hurt?
Aquagold is generally very comfortable because the gold needles are hair-fine and the infusion is superficial. Most people feel only a light, stamping sensation. Numbing cream is not usually needed, though we can discuss comfort options if your skin is sensitive.
How soon will I see results and how long do they last?
A refined, brighter glow typically develops within 3–7 days as the skin responds and any micro-toxin takes effect. Results usually last around 1–2 months, which is why Aquagold is often repeated periodically or as a short course. Individual results vary with skin type, the blend used and lifestyle.
How often should I have an Aquagold facial?
For the best results we usually recommend a course of 3–4 sessions spaced about 4 weeks apart, then maintenance treatments as needed. Some patients have a single session before an event for an instant glow. Dr Nina will recommend a sensible plan for your skin and goals.
What is in the Aquagold serum blend?
The blend is bespoke and chosen for your skin. It commonly includes micro-doses of botulinum toxin to refine pores and soften fine lines, hyaluronic acid for hydration and smoothness, and brightening or antioxidant ingredients for glow. We will confirm exactly what is included and check for any allergies at consultation.
Is the Aquagold facial good before an event?
Yes — it is a popular pre-event glow treatment because it leaves skin looking fresh and refined with minimal downtime. As a guide, having it a few days to a week before an occasion allows any mild redness to settle and the glow to develop. We will advise on the best timing for you.
Is the Aquagold facial suitable for all skin types?
Aquagold is suitable for most skin types and skin tones, as the micro-channelling is superficial and the gentle, infused approach carries a low risk of pigmentation issues. Some active skin conditions, infections or a current cold sore outbreak may mean treatment is delayed, and suitability is always confirmed after a skin assessment.
Can the Aquagold facial help with pores and fine lines?
Yes. When the blend includes micro-doses of botulinum toxin, Aquagold can temporarily refine the look of enlarged pores and soften fine lines, while the hyaluronic acid and antioxidants improve hydration and glow. The effect is subtle and superficial rather than the structural change you would get from injectable contouring.
Can Aquagold be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Aquagold is often paired with Dermalux LED to calm and support the skin, and many patients alternate it with skin boosters such as Profhilo for deeper hydration and firmness. Dr Nina and the team will advise what is sensible to combine and the right order so treatments complement each other.
What aftercare does the Aquagold facial need?
Keep the skin clean and hydrated, avoid heavy makeup, vigorous exercise, saunas and direct sun for the first day or so, and pause strong actives until your skin has settled. Daily broad-spectrum SPF is recommended. You will be given tailored aftercare advice to protect and prolong your glow.
Is a consultation required before the Aquagold facial?
A consultation and skin assessment are recommended to check your skin and concerns, review your medical history and any allergies, confirm the ingredients in your bespoke blend, and agree your plan and price. This ensures the treatment is appropriate and safe for you.
Take the next step
Book your Aquagold Facial consultation
If you are considering Aquagold Facial, a consultation is the safest way to confirm whether it is right for your skin, anatomy and goals — and to receive an honest recommendation and exact pricing.
Medical disclaimer: This page is for general information about a non-surgical aesthetic treatment and is not medical advice. Suitability, benefits, risks and results vary from patient to patient. Dr Nina Bal and her team will assess whether Aquagold Facial is appropriate for you during a consultation. Before-and-after photographs are of individual patients for illustration only and are not a guarantee of any specific outcome.
