Carbon Peeling

Carbon laser peeling is so called hollywood peel. It is gradually growing in india because of its zero downtime and instant results. Carbon laser peel is a laser procedure that uses a carbon layer as a photo - enhancer to improve the skin's radiance and promotes a smooth and glowing complexion. This treatment is used to target active acne as carbon powder penetrates into pores, thus allowing the laser to focus it's energy more effectively. It also helps refine enlarged pores to reduce oil secretion, remove open comedones and achieve whitening effects.

mechanism of action:

Laser energy lightly absorbs carbon particles, heating dermis which results in stimulating the building up of collagen leading to tightening and younger looking skin and lightly ablating the top layer of epidermis. Laser energy breaks up pigment that is carried away by blood vessels and lightening effect is achieved. It has bactericidal effect on propionibacterium acnes and decreases the size of sebaceous glands so a favourable response is seen in acne prone patients. 

indications:

• enlarged or dilated pores
• presence of fine lines 
• oily and acne prone skin 
• dull complexion or dyschromia 

contraindications:

• pregnancy
• acute or chronic inflammatory dermatoses
• malignancy 
• history of keloidal tendency 

1. Cleansing: it is done with a mild cleanser so as to remove any oil, dirt and makeup and apply eye protective sheild.

2. Carbon paste application:
Then a uniform layer of medicated carbon paste is applied over the area to be treated. Then dab it with a cotton pad so as to remove excess of carbon.

3. Laser pass:
We use q - switched nd-yag 1320nm at maximum fluence tolerable to patient as it should not hurt throughout the procedure. The pass is given without overlapping. The carbon particles are absorbed by laser and leave skin refreshed and toned. 

4. Cleaning: the remaining carbon particles, if anywhere, should be cleaned with micelle solution and a layer of vitamin c and hyaluronic acid serum is applied followed by sunscreen. 

post-procedure instructions:

• avoid sun and sauna bath for 7 days 
• use moisturiser and sunscreen on a regular basis.
• maintain hydration 

side effects:

• erythema and transient swelling which may be present for few hours and can be managed well with ice packs 
• post inflammatory hyperpigmentation may also occur
• laser burn is quite rare

results: 
Even after single session, smooth and even skin is noticed. For ideal results, 5-6 sessions at interval of 2-3 weeks are advised for other indications.