Carbon laser

Carbon laser (Soft Touch) to tighten pores and reduce clogged pores, with no scabbing

A 40-micron carbon powder is applied so it settles into the pores, then a 1064 nm laser makes the carbon burst away together with debris and dead skin cells. 30 minutes, and straight back to work.

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Illustration: carbon particles lodged in the pores give the laser a target, drawing out debris and delivering heat to the sebaceous glands

How carbon laser works

Black carbon powder absorbs 1064 nm laser light extremely well. After the carbon is applied and left to settle into the pores for 5–15 minutes, the laser is passed over the whole face. The carbon heats and vaporises rapidly, carrying away dead skin cells, oil and debris from the pores. Part of the heat reaches the upper dermis at 1–1.5 millimetres, reducing sebaceous gland activity and stimulating collagen. The result is smoother skin, pores that look smaller, less oil and fewer clogged pores. Unlike acid peels there is no stinging, no scabbing, and it can be used on every skin tone because the target is the carbon, not the skin's own pigment.

Who it suits

Oily skin, enlarged pores

Especially on the nose, cheeks and forehead

Clogged pores, blackheads

Helps open the pores and reduce new blockages. Used alongside the acne programme

Dull, rough, uneven skin

Dead skin cells are removed immediately and the skin feels softer to the touch

Superficial dark marks and shallow acne scars

A secondary benefit that builds over 4–6 sessions. Not a treatment for deep acne scars

Before an important occasion

Skin looks fresh and smooth from day one, with no peeling or scabbing phase

The 30–40 minute procedure

Cleanse and skin assessmentThe doctor checks for severe inflamed acne or irritated skin that would mean postponing
Carbon mask for 5–15 minutesA thin layer of carbon is applied across the face, avoiding the eye area, and left to settle into the pores
Laser until the carbon is clearedA warm sensation with light popping sounds. No numbing cream needed. About 10–15 minutes
Cleanse, serum and sunscreenThe skin is pink and warm for 15–45 minutes, after which you can apply make-up

Compared with other exfoliation methods

MethodSensationRecoveryStrengths
Carbon laserWarm, no stingingPink for 15–45 minutesReduces oil, pores and clogged pores; can be repeated often
Chemical peelStinging, tinglingPeeling for 3–7 daysBrightening and superficial dark marks
Diamond peelLike a fine sand scrubRed for 1–2 hoursRough skin, blackheads
Fractional laserHot, needs numbing creamRed and peeling for 3–7 daysAcne scars, scars, deeply rough texture
Postpone if you

Have many inflamed, pus-filled spots (the acne should be settled first), have a cold sore or skin infection, react easily to abraded skin, have used a topical retinoid within 3 days, or are taking isotretinoin, in which case the doctor sets the energy individually. If you are pregnant, consult the doctor first

Aftercare

  • Apply sunscreen and moisturiser straight away
  • No scrubs or exfoliating acids for 3 days
  • Cleanse with a gentle product
  • Can be repeated every 2–4 weeks. A typical course is 4–6 sessions, then once a month for maintenance

Prices

Carbon laser full face, 1 session
Skin assessment, carbon mask, laser, serum and sunscreen
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Course of 5 sessions
Every 2–4 weeks
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Add-on mask or LED after the laser
Reduces redness and adds hydration
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Related services

Frequently Asked Questions

How often can I have carbon laser?

Generally every 2–4 weeks during the treatment phase and once a month for maintenance. Doing it more often adds no benefit and may dry the skin.

Will I see results after the first session?

Smoother, fresher skin is noticeable as soon as the carbon is washed off. Pores and oiliness need 3–4 cumulative sessions before the difference is clear, and results depend on your daily skin care.

Can it treat acne scars?

It makes shallow scars look slightly smoother through collagen stimulation, but deep scars need fractional laser or subcision.

Is it suitable for men?

Yes, and it is popular because there is no downtime. It suits the oily skin and enlarged pores that are common in men.

Free doctor consultation, no obligationMessage us privately on LINE or WhatsApp and the doctor will suggest the right approach for you