Carbon Facial

What is a carbon facial?

A carbon facial, also known as a carbon laser peel or Hollywood peel, is a non-invasive laser treatment that combines the power of medical-grade carbon and Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser technology.

How does a carbon facial work?

A thin layer of liquid carbon is applied to the skin and the particles penetrate deep into pores, binding to oil, dead skin cells, dirt & impurities. The carbon acts as a photo-enhancer, meaning it absorbs laser energy very effectively.

 

The carbon sits on the skin for about 10–15 minutes, then a laser is passed over the skin. The laser energy is attracted to the carbon particles & causes the following:

  • Exfoliation: the laser vaporises the carbon, taking dead skin cells, oil, and contaminants with it.
  • Deep Cleansing: heat from the laser penetrates the skin, destroying bacteria in the pores & reducing acne-causing factors. It also shrinks sebaceous (oil) glands, helping reduce excess oil production.
  • Collagen Stimulation; the heat energy stimulates collagen and elastin production, improving skin elasticity & reducing fine lines and pores over time.

What are the benefits of carbon facials?

Carbon facials offer a range of benefits, including;

  • Deep pore cleansing and exfoliation
  • Brightens and evens skin tone
  • Reduces blackheads, whiteheads & oiliness
  • Stimulates collagen production for tighter, smoother skin
  • Diminished appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Immediate glow with zero downtime
  • Improved skin texture and tone
  • Reduced pore size
  • Overall skin rejuvenation
  • Can help control acne breakouts and oil production
  • Minimal to no downtime, regular activities can be resumed immediately afterwards 

Do carbon facials hurt?

No! The treatment is gentle, non-invasive and painless. It may feel warm or prickly, or like a rubber band pinging, but not painful.

You'll probably. hear a snap sound as we target the carbon particles in your pores with the laser, that's completely normal and not painful.

How many treatments will I need?

Results are visible after a single treatment. However, for improved and long-term results, we recommend 4-6 treatments, spaced 2-4 weeks apart.

It also depends on the reason for the treatment and your goals; during the initial consulltation we will discuss these and tailor a treatment plan, including number of sessions required, to your needs.

Will I see immediate results?

Yes! Your skin will look and feel smoother, and some superficial congestion will have been removed.

A reduction in pores, acne lesions and some other conditions will require multiple sessions.

Can anyone have a carbon facial?

Unfortunately there are some medical conditions that would make laser treatments unsafe, these are;

  • Lupus
  • Immunosuppressive diseases (such as aids/HIV)
  • Keloid scarring
  • Bleeding/clotting disorders
  • Uncontrolled hypertension
  • Anticoagulant/blood thinning medication
  • Uncontolled diabetes 
  • Skin cancer 
  • Melasma or psoriasis in the treatment area
  • Photosensitivity, or any sensitivity to the sun that causes a rash or allergic reaction
  • Gold therapy or methotrexate
  • Immunosuppressive medications
  • Liver disease, such as hepatitis
  • History of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation

There are also some medical conditions and medications that prevent laser treatments in the short-term, but providing you have none of the above, you could commence treatment once they were resolved. these are;

  • Preghnancy & breastfeeding
  • Active skin infections (e.g. eczema, herpes/colds sores)
  • Oral Isotretinoin or other prescription acne medication (such as Accutane/Roaccutane) in the last 6 months
  • Medical chemical peel, dermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing or face lift at site of treatment in the last 6 months
  • Light sensitive medications/herbal supplements, or perfumes/cosmetics/skincare that affect sensitivity to light
  • Use of NSAID's in the last week
  • Surgery or anaesthetic in the last 2 weeks
  • Open lacerations or abrasions in the treatment area
  • Botox or fillers in/under the treatment area
  • Chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or radio frequency treatment in the last 4 weeks
  • Some types of antibiotics

Is there anything I should or shouldn't do before a treatment?

  • No sun-tanning or self-tanners 3-4 weeks prior to treatment  (Includes spray tans, tanning lotions, tanning beds, sun bathing, etc), and wear sunscreen when out in the sun 

  • Avoid treatments that may irritate the skin for 1-2 weeks prior to treatment (waxing, depilatories, etc.)

  • Discontinue use of retinol, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid 7 days before treatment

  • Avoid alcohol, smoking and strong painkillers for 24 hours prioir to your appointment 
  • Ensure your skin is clean and free of any makeup or lotions before arriving

     

Is there anything I should or shouldn't do after treatment?

Yes, there are some important ways to take care of your skin and aid healing after treatment, these are;

  • Avoid direct sun exposure (sunbathing, holidays, sun beds) for 14-30 days post-treatment
  • Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher) daily
  • Avoid active skincare (retinols, AHAs, BHAs), as well as any products containing high levels of vitamin A and glycolic acid for at least 5 days
  • Keep the treated area clean and moisturised with a gentle product
  • Don’t exfoliate you skin within the first 7 days as it may cause irritation
  • Do not pick or scratch at any scabs, crusting, flaking skin or blisters
  • Avoid strenuous exercise, hot showers/baths, saunas, steam rooms and hot tubs for a minimum of 48 hours
  • Do not apply makeup for 24–48 hours, or until skin sensitivity has fully resolved
  • • Avoid harsh skincare or cosmetics on the area until fully healed
  • Apply cool compresses as needed for discomfort or swelling

Are there any side effects?

Common side effects can include; light redness or warmth post-treatment, tightness or dryness in the skin, and mild peeling in the days following treatment.

Most side effects are mild and temporary, resolving within a few hours to a few days. 

Does everyone need a consultation & patch test before treatment?

Yes, all laser treatments require a full consultation & patch test before the first treatment can go ahead. 

During the consultation we'll discuss your medical history, medications and other influencing factors, to make sure laser is a safe and suitable treatment for your goals.

We will then carry out a patch test to assess your skin sensitivity & response to the laser. This helps determine the appropriate settings for the laser & identify any potential adverse reactions or side effects. 

Please allow up to an hour for the initial consultation appointment.