The Carbon Laser Peel Story
Sabrina’s carbon peel story.
Next up on my skin journey story: a carbon laser peel summer facial at New Age Spa’s Lasalle location. Also commonly known as the Hollywood peel or the charcoal facial, this facial treatment is truly a one-stop-shop. By that, I mean that the cleansing and exfoliating facial works to treat acne, acne scars, large pores, redness, pigmentation, age spots, and fine lines and wrinkles—quite the impressive lineup, if you ask me. Obviously, my acne-prone, oily skin was really into trying this one. I’ve also seen it all over social media and it’s been calling my name. There is something about watching the carbon being zapped away that is just so satisfying to me.
I tend to get breakouts around my jawline and chin area.
which I’ve learned is related to hormone imbalance and gut health issues. My appointment happened to fall right before that time of the month; therefore, my skin was not looking cute. With a fresh breakout on my face and ever-present blackheads occupying my nose, I walked into the spa in need of some serious care. I was relieved to hear that the summer facial treatment is suitable for skin with active breakouts, as well as for sensitive skin. It is also more than fine to get a carbon laser peel during the summer months, which is not the case for all treatments.
“My facialist began the carbon laser peel treatment by double cleansing my skin and followed that up with facial steaming and extractions”
I relaxed under the soothing steam for five minutes or so.
She then proceeded to use an electronic handheld device—kinda like a tiny vacuum for your pores— to suck out all of the nasty “ish” trapped in my pores. (Note to self: I need to get my hands on one of these little pore vacuums). Next up: extractions. Once again, so satisfying. If I had to change my career tomorrow, I would become a professional pimple popper. Needless to say, I really enjoyed this part of the facial.
The next step is where the carbon comes into play.
The facialist applied a thin layer of a carbon-based gel to my skin. We allowed the carbon product to set over several minutes in order to achieve the charcoal film on which the laser will be targeted. Finally, the facialist used the laser machine to blast away the carbon little by little.
There is no pain whatsoever.
The only element of the procedure that may be somewhat undesirable is the burning smell that results from the carbon being zapped away by the laser. Personally, I found the smell to be just fine. It reminded me of a warm summer evening grilling vegetables or something on the barbecue. Delish. It’s definitely a bit of a stretch, but hey, it’s what came to mind.
How it works
Essentially, there are two major components that make the carbon laser peel so effective. The first is the carbon base, which penetrates deep into the pores to cleanse and exfoliate the skin, as well as eliminate impurities. Secondly, the heat from the laser stimulates the cells, which in turn, activates collagen production and boosts elasticity. The result of it all: cleaner, tighter pores; a significant reduction of acne-causing bacteria, blackheads, and dead skin cells; regulation of excess oil; and overall, healthy, radiant skin.
Instant Glow-up
The procedure of summer facial itself is perhaps not the most glamorous, but when it comes to achieving results quickly, this one is a winner. And let me tell you, if this facial is good enough for Angelina Jolie and Kim Kardashian, it is good enough for me.
Although I’m not done experimenting with facials just yet, I can confidently say that this collagen-stimulating, acne-fighting, skin-rejuvenating, pore-tightening powerhouse is currently at the top of my list. Stay tuned.