A carbon facial — also known as a carbon Hollywood facial or carbon laser facial — is a skin treatment that uses a fine carbon lotion or mask on the face, followed by laser energy. The carbon absorbs the laser light and is vaporised from the skin surface, helping to lift away impurities as it goes. At ONYX & NOIR in Weybridge, carbon laser facials sit alongside our private aesthetics offering and are approached with the same emphasis on precision, discretion and a personalised plan after consultation.

A thin layer of medical-grade carbon is applied so it can settle into the skin’s surface and pores. A laser — commonly a Q-switched laser in this type of treatment — is then passed over the face. The carbon particles absorb the energy and shatter or vaporise, taking surface debris and excess oil with them. The result is a clean, refined finish rather than a harsh peel. Exact settings and technique are confirmed after assessing your skin in consultation.

Clients typically seek a carbon facial for congested or oily skin, enlarged-looking pores, dullness, uneven texture and a general lack of radiance. It is often chosen as a refining, revitalising treatment rather than a dramatic resurfacing procedure. Results vary with skin type, lifestyle and how regularly you treat. We will advise honestly whether this is the right option for your skin goals.

It can suit many adults who want clearer-looking, smoother, brighter skin with little disruption to daily life. Oily, congested or dull complexions are common reasons to enquire, though suitability always depends on your skin history and current condition. Certain situations — such as pregnancy, active infection, recent strong sun or tan, or some medications and skin conditions — may mean treatment should be postponed or avoided. This is assessed carefully in consultation rather than assumed.

Most clients describe a warm, snapping or prickling sensation as the laser interacts with the carbon, rather than lasting pain. Comfort can vary across different areas of the face and with individual sensitivity. We work carefully and explain what to expect before we begin. If you are anxious about sensation, raise this at consultation so we can plan accordingly.

Sessions take around 60 minutes. A carbon facial typically includes consultation or review, cleansing, carbon application, laser passes and aftercare guidance. We confirm timing when you book. Please allow a little extra time at the studio so the treatment is not rushed.

Downtime is usually minimal. Mild redness or a warm feeling can appear afterwards and often settles quickly, though every skin responds differently. Many people return to normal activities the same day. Whether makeup is appropriate later that day or the next depends on your skin’s response and the guidance you receive after treatment. Follow the aftercare you are given in studio.

You will receive clear aftercare after your session. In general, keep the skin clean, avoid harsh exfoliants or strong active products until advised, and protect the face from unnecessary heat and strong sun while it settles. If anything feels unexpected — prolonged redness, irritation or discomfort — contact ONYX & NOIR for advice rather than self-treating with new products.

Many clients notice a fresher, cleaner, more refined look soon after treatment as surface impurities and oil are reduced. Texture and radiance can continue to look improved as the skin settles over the following days. A single session can refresh the complexion; a course may be discussed if your goals involve ongoing oil control or pore refinement. Expectations are set honestly at consultation.

Frequency depends on your skin type, concerns and how your skin responds. Some clients book occasionally for a brightening refresh; others prefer a spaced course for congestion or oiliness. We typically recommend a course of 4–6 sessions, spaced every 2–4 weeks, with occasional maintenance sessions to keep skin clear. Your plan is confirmed after assessing your skin.

A chemical peel uses acids to encourage controlled exfoliation of the skin. A carbon facial uses carbon plus laser energy to target surface impurities and refine the complexion, usually with a different sensation and typically lighter downtime profile for many clients. Neither replaces the other for every concern. Consultation helps decide which approach — or whether another treatment — better matches your skin and diary.

Sometimes, but spacing and order matter. Combining treatments too closely can irritate the skin or reduce the quality of results. What can be paired safely depends on your skin, recent procedures and the products or devices involved. Please tell us about any recent peels, injectables, laser work or strong skincare so we can advise on suitable timing.

Arrive with clean skin where possible and avoid recent strong sun exposure on the face. Share details of medications, allergies, active breakouts, cold sores or recent aesthetic treatments when you book or at consultation. If you use prescription topicals or strong acids, mention them — we may ask you to pause certain products before treatment. Specific prep notes are confirmed when your appointment is arranged.

After a brief review of your skin and goals, the face is cleansed and a fine carbon layer is applied. Once ready, the laser is passed over the treatment area so the carbon can absorb the energy and lift away from the skin. The skin is then checked and aftercare is explained. Treatment is one-to-one in our private Weybridge studio, with the same discreet, considered standard we apply across our aesthetics work.

A single carbon laser facial is £100. Course packages are available: 3 sessions for £285, 6 sessions for £525 and 12 sessions for £1,000. If you are new to laser treatments, we will check suitability before your first session. ONYX & NOIR is at Haland House, 66 York Road, Weybridge KT13 9DY, open 10am–7pm, seven days a week. Use the free consultation page on onyxnoir.co.uk, call 07932353232, email onyxnoirsmp@gmail.com, or enquire via Instagram @onyxnoirsmp.