What does a carbon facial do to your face?
Carbon Laser Facials: What they do and what to expect
A Carbon Laser Facial is one of the treatments you can book with Sophie here at Skin Health Studio. If you’ve come across the name and wondered what the carbon actually does, I’d love to explain a little more about it.
We use the UltraLUX system, with treatment options for the face, face and neck, and the back. This spring, Sophie is offering 20% off courses of four Carbon treatments, so I thought it was a good time to talk through what’s involved.
What is a Carbon Laser Facial?
A Carbon Laser Facial uses a fine layer of carbon lotion and laser energy to exfoliate the skin and help improve the appearance of pores and uneven texture.
The carbon acts as a target for the laser. Once it’s been applied and allowed to settle, the laser passes over the treatment area. The carbon absorbs the energy and breaks apart, creating an exfoliating effect that helps remove surface build-up.
Although you might also hear it called a carbon peel or Hollywood peel, this treatment doesn’t use an exfoliating acid. The exfoliating action comes from the carbon and laser working together.
What can a Carbon Facial help with?
Carbon Facials can help improve the appearance of visible pores and rough or uneven texture, particularly in skin that’s prone to oiliness or congestion. Some people notice their skin feels smoother and looks fresher afterwards, while ongoing concerns may need a course of treatments.
Sophie can talk through what you can reasonably expect based on your skin and what you’d like to improve.
Can you have Carbon treatment on your back?
Yes, Carbon treatments can be used on the back too. We use the same carbon lotion and laser process as we do on the face, treating the full back in a 45-minute appointment.
This can be helpful for skin that feels rough or congested, especially if you’re prone to oiliness and blocked pores across your back. It’s an area that’s difficult to reach with your usual skincare, so having someone assess and treat it properly can be useful.
What happens during the appointment?
Sophie will assess your skin before treatment. This is also a good time to mention any sensitivity and let her know what skincare you’re using at home.
Your skin is then cleansed before the carbon lotion is applied. Once it has settled, the laser is passed over the treatment area, with protective eyewear in place.
You may hear a popping sound as the laser interacts with the carbon. On the skin, it can feel warm or a little like a light snap. Most people find it manageable, and you can let Sophie know how it feels throughout the appointment.
Is there downtime after a Carbon Facial?
There’s generally little downtime, although your skin may look slightly red or feel warm afterwards.
Keep your skincare gentle and follow Sophie’s advice about when to return to exfoliating products or other active ingredients. You don’t need to add extra exfoliation at home to help the treatment along.
She’ll also explain what to avoid afterwards, including heat and strong sun exposure. As we move into spring and summer, remember to protect the whole area you’ve had treated, including your neck or back.
How many Carbon Facial treatments will I need?
Some people book a single Carbon Facial, while others have a course for ongoing concerns. Sophie’s spring packages include four treatments, with the opportunity to check how your skin responds between appointments. She’ll advise on treatment spacing and whether further sessions would be useful for your skin.
Book with Sophie this spring
Until the end of October, save 20% off any prepaid treatment packages with Sophie. That includes IPL Hair Removal, Carbon Facials, LED Light Therapy and more.
👉 Find out more about our Spring Special for September and October 2026
~ Jemma
