How to Prepare for Your First Carbon Facial

The Carbon Facial, also called the Hollywood Facial or carbon laser peel, is popular for refreshing dull skin, refining the look of pores and helping with oily, congested skin. Good preparation and aftercare help you get the most from it. Here's what we recommend.

What is a Carbon Facial?

A thin layer of carbon lotion is applied to the skin, where it settles into the pores and binds with oil, dead skin cells and surface impurities. Laser energy is then passed across the skin, targeting the carbon and lifting it away along with what it has attached to. The laser's warmth may also help support collagen.

It's designed to:

• Refine the look of enlarged pores
• Help oily or congested skin
• Brighten a dull complexion
• Leave skin feeling smooth and polished

Before your appointment

1. Pause harsh skincare

Stop using products that might irritate your skin for around 5 to 7 days beforehand, including:

• Retinol or prescription retinoids
• AHA and BHA acids, such as glycolic or salicylic acid
• Harsh physical scrubs

2. Stay out of the sun

Canterbury's UV levels are high. Sun exposure before laser treatment can increase sensitivity and the risk of pigmentation. We recommend:

• No tanning or sunbeds for at least 2 weeks beforehand
• Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every day

3. Arrive with clean skin

Come with a bare face if you can: no makeup, moisturiser or sunscreen. This helps the carbon go on evenly.

4. Tell us your skin history

Let your technician know if you:

• Have had other skin treatments recently
• Are using acne medication, such as isotretinoin
• Have any known sensitivities or allergies
• Are pregnant

What happens on the day

• Consultation. Your technician checks your skin and goes through your history.
• Cleanse. Your skin is gently cleansed.
• Carbon. A thin layer of carbon lotion is applied and left to settle.
• Laser. The laser passes over the skin. Most people feel warmth or a light tingling.
• Finish. Remaining carbon is removed, leaving skin smoother and brighter.

Most people go straight back to their day.

Aftercare

Moisturise and protect

Use a gentle, hydrating moisturiser. Daily sunscreen is essential, as New Zealand's UV levels are among the highest in the world.

Keep it gentle for a few days

Skip strong actives for 3 to 5 days, and stick to a mild cleanser and hydrating products.

Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water. A hydrating serum can help too.

Pairing it with other treatments

The Carbon Facial can sit well alongside other treatments, such as Laser Skin Rejuvenation or 3D IPL, as part of a longer-term plan. Your technician can talk you through the options.

Individual experiences vary. Your technician will explain preparation, what to expect and aftercare before treatment.