The carbon laser peel is one of the gentlest laser treatments, and one of the most misunderstood. It is often marketed as a cure-all for “every skin flaw”. In reality it is useful for some things and more limited than the marketing suggests.
How it works
- The face is cleansed and a thin layer of carbon lotion is painted on. The fine carbon particles settle into pores and the top layer of skin.
- A Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is passed over the skin. The carbon absorbs the laser light and is vaporised, taking oil, debris and dead surface cells with it. You hear a light crackling as this happens.
- A further pass of gentle laser energy, without carbon, may be used to warm the deeper skin.
- Soothing serum and sunscreen are applied.
A session usually takes around half an hour to an hour, including preparation.
What it is good for
- Oily skin and shine: the heat temporarily calms oil glands.
- Enlarged-looking pores: cleaner, tighter-looking pores after a course.
- Dull, rough skin: an immediate fresher, smoother surface.
- Mild uneven tone and fine texture, gradually over several sessions.
- A low-downtime glow before an event.
What it is not
- Not a treatment for deep pigmentation or melasma. Those need a careful plan, often with lasers at different settings and creams. See pigmentation treatment.
- Not a treatment for acne scars or wrinkles, beyond a mild texture improvement. Scars need resurfacing or subcision. See acne scar treatment.
- Not a replacement for treating active acne with proper medicines. It can be a helpful add-on.
What it feels like
Most people feel a warm, prickly sensation, like light snaps, mostly as the carbon is vaporised. No numbing is usually needed.
Aftercare
Mild redness can last an hour or two. Use a gentle cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen, and avoid scrubs, peels and strong actives for a few days. Make-up can usually be worn the next day.
How it compares
- Hydra facial / medi-facial: no laser; deep cleansing and hydration. Better for dehydrated, sensitive skin.
- Chemical peel: acids remove the surface layers; can be stronger for pigment and texture, with more peeling.
- Carbon peel: gentle laser cleanse with oil control. Good for oily, congested skin.
The right choice depends on your skin. See carbon laser peel, hydra facial and medi-facials and chemical peels.
