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 photoenhancer, meaning it absorbs laser energy very effectively.

 

The carbon sits on the skin for about 10–15 minutes, allowing it to settle into the pores and dry slightly.

A Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is then passed over the skin. The laser energy is attracted to the carbon particles and causes the following:

Exfoliation

  • The laser vaporizes the carbon, taking dead skin cells, oil, and contaminants with it.

  • This produces a gentle peeling effect, revealing fresher, brighter skin underneath.

Deep Cleansing

  • Heat from the laser penetrates the skin, destroying bacteria in the pores and 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 and 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

 

Another benefit of carbon facials is that there is minimal to no downtime associated with the treatment. Most people experience mild redness and warmth immediately after the procedure, which typically subsides within a few hours.

Some individuals may also notice slight flaking or peeling of the skin in the days following the treatment, but this is usually mild and can be managed with moisturiser. Overall, clients can resume their regular activities immediately after a carbon facial

 



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 treatements 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 can't do after a 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