Key takeaways
- A liquid carbon mask is applied, then vaporised by a laser: lifting oil, dead cells and debris out of the pores.
- Instant brightening with no downtime; best results after a series of 3–6, four weeks apart.
- Ideal for oily, congested, acne-prone and dull skin; safe on all skin tones.
- It is a maintenance and glow treatment, not a fix for deep scars or heavy pigmentation.
What is a Hollywood Carbon Facial?
Also called a carbon laser peel or “China doll facial,” the Hollywood Carbon Facial is a two-step treatment. First, a thin layer of medical-grade liquid carbon is painted onto the face and left to sink into the pores for 10–15 minutes, where it binds to oil, dead skin cells and impurities. Then a Q-switched laser passes over the skin and is absorbed by the carbon particles, which vaporise instantly: taking the debris with them and delivering a burst of gentle heat into the upper dermis. The name comes from its popularity before red-carpet events: skin looks visibly brighter, tighter and smoother the same day.
What it does
- Deep-cleans pores and reduces their appearance by clearing the debris that stretches them.
- Controls oil: the laser gently shrinks sebaceous gland activity for weeks.
- Calms active acne by reducing bacteria and inflammation.
- Evens tone and softens superficial pigmentation and post-acne marks.
- Stimulates collagen for a subtle tightening effect that builds over a series.
- Instant glow: the exfoliation and mild swelling make skin look polished immediately.
Who it’s for (and not for)
| Great candidates | Better served by something else |
|---|---|
| Oily, congested skin with blackheads | Deep, pitted acne scars → microneedling or scar relaxation |
| Mild to moderate active acne | Severe cystic acne → physician + acne laser treatment |
| Dull, tired skin before an event | Melasma or dense sun spots → peels, IPL or skin lightening |
| Enlarged pores | Significant laxity → RF tightening or threads |
| All skin tones, including deep skin | Active cold sores, recent isotretinoin, pregnancy |
What a session feels like
- Cleanse; the carbon lotion is applied and dries to a matte grey mask (this is the “oh, interesting” moment).
- Protective goggles go on. The laser makes a rapid clicking sound; each pass feels like warm tingles with a faint popping sensation as the carbon vaporises.
- A second, slower pass delivers gentle heat for collagen and oil control.
- Residual carbon is wiped away, and a calming serum plus mineral SPF finish the treatment. Total time: 45–60 minutes.
Skin may be slightly pink for an hour; most clients apply makeup and go back to work. There is no peeling.
How many sessions and how often
One session gives a same-day glow that lasts a week or two. For real change in oil, pores and breakouts, we recommend 3–6 sessions four weeks apart, then a maintenance treatment every 1–3 months. Many clients pair it monthly with an acne facial or use it between microneedling sessions.
Before and after care
- Stop retinoids and exfoliating acids 3–5 days before.
- No sun or self-tanner for a week before; mineral SPF daily afterwards.
- Arrive without makeup or heavy moisturiser so the carbon can penetrate.
- For 24 hours after: no scrubs, saunas, hot yoga or heavy workouts.
- Resume actives after 3 days.
Curious whether it is right for your skin? Request a free consultation, if a different treatment will serve you better, we will say so.
Your questions, answered
Straight answers from the Oxyderm clinical team on the questions this article raises. Browse all 89 answers or ask us directly.
What does a Hollywood Carbon Facial do?
It deep-cleans pores, reduces oil, calms acne, evens tone and gives an instant glow by vaporising a carbon mask with a laser. Collagen stimulation builds over a series.
Is there downtime?
No. Skin may be pink for about an hour; you can wear makeup and return to work the same day. There is no peeling.
Does it hurt?
No: most clients describe warm tingles and a light popping sensation. Numbing is not needed.
How many sessions do I need?
One for an event glow; 3–6 sessions four weeks apart for lasting improvement in oil, pores and breakouts, then maintenance every 1–3 months.
Is it safe for dark skin?
Yes. The laser targets the carbon on the surface rather than melanin in the skin, so it is suitable for all skin tones.
Can it treat acne scars?
It softens superficial post-acne marks and texture but does not fill pitted scars. Microneedling or scar relaxation are better options for those.
How much does it cost in Edmonton?
It is priced per session with a series discount; the exact price is quoted at your free consultation and current promotions are listed on our promos page.
