Perhaps you’ve heard of or even received the heralded “Hollywood Facial,” also marketed as the “Porcelain Doll Facial.” Regardless of its title, these treatments are all cut from the same cloth: the carbon peel facial. Delicate enough for all skin types, this nonablative treatment promises a porcelain-smooth complexion while boasting a host of other antiaging benefits. Touting a low-pain factor, minimal downtime, and a cost-effective price margin, the carbon facial has become a staple procedure in the aesthetics industry.
CARBON PEEL FACIAL
Improving the look of enlarged and clogged pores, addressing pigmentation issues due to acne scarring and melasma, and reducing the prominence of fine lines and wrinkles are among its list of achievements. The carbon peel facial exfoliates skin deeply, stimulates collagen remodeling, targets photoaging, and leaves skin looking firmer and feeling more hydrated. Not reserved for the face alone, this treatment can improve the neck and chest area, as well as the back of the hands. Ideal candidates for this treatment include those with sensitive skin types that are prone to bouts of acne, rosacea, and eczema.
The main difference between the carbon facial and traditional chemical peels lies in how these results are achieved. Using a significantly gentler approach than a traditional chemical peel, the carbon facial rejuvenates skin by harnessing the power of controlled heat delivery by way of a laser. This approach draws out impurities, causing a peeling effect without damaging the outer layers of skin, as opposed to a chemical reaction which employs a fine acid composite to cause rapid skin proliferation. Results are visible immediately, all while remaining noninvasive, pain-free, and with minimal recovery time.
{mprestriction ids=”3,4,26,18,6,7,8,9,14,18,43,44″}
HOW IT WORKS
Sometimes referred to as a lunchtime peel, the carbon facial has a two-stage, 30- to 60-minute process. First, skin is thoroughly cleansed to remove any traces of dirt, oil, debris, sweat, and makeup. After providing eye protection, the provider applies a medical-grade carbon paste over the entire treatment area and allows it to penetrate for 10 to 15 minutes. As the paste dries, carbon particles penetrate deep into the pores, bonding with dead skin cells, oils, and other debris. The deeply pigmented carbon will serve as a photo enhancer that causes the contaminants to vaporize upon contact with the laser.
Using a short-pulsed Q-switched laser on a low setting, the laser is swept across the surface of skin, removing the carbon lotion and heating the subdermal tissue, which in turn induces a plumping effect. A Q-switched laser is versatile in its application in that energy delivery is produced in very short bursts. The output delivered in each pulse is much higher than it would be if produced in a continuous mode by the same laser, making it ideal for pigment-related applications. The laser is attracted to the pigment, causing an explosion-like reaction which shatters the carbon into particles, driving heat energy into the deeper layers of skin where collagen, elastin, and fibroblast production are activated. After the second pass over the treatment area, the technician will apply a cooling mask to minimize redness and warmth.
SENSATIONS & RECOVERY
Pain level during the procedure has been likened to that of a rubber band flicking against your skin. There is an audible popping or crackling sound as the laser comes into contact with the liquid carbon. A vacuum is used to aid in the removal of carbon particles as they are dispersed. All senses are engaged, but the mild discomfort pales in comparison to other, more invasive procedures.
Recovery and downtime after the carbon facial is minimal. Aftercare includes the diligent use of sun protection, refraining from heat-inducing activities such as hot tubs and showers immediately following treatment, and avoiding the use of retinol and other exfoliants for seven days. Mineral makeup may be applied on the same day if desired. Dryness, flakiness, and mild redness are common in some individuals for a few days after treatment.
Overall, the carbon peel facial is a one-size-fits-most treatment that delivers significant short-term benefits as a stand-alone treatment, as well as profound, long-term benefits when performed every three to four weeks in a series. Regardless of how it’s labeled, this versatile, results-driven treatment has proven that beauty does not always equate to pain and downtime.
{/mprestriction}
With over a decade of experience in aesthetics, Suzanne Whigham has immersed herself in exploring the most challenging aspects of skin care and conditions. As a regular contributor to DERMASCOPE magazine, she has a passion for writing and passes that knowledge on to her clients at her clinic, Epiderme Aesthetics, where she encourages a whole-body approach to skin health and wellness.
