Treatment Overview
The Carbon Laser Peel (also called Hollywood Peel or Spectra Carbon Peel) is a non-invasive dermatology procedure popular in Korea for age spots (liver spots), freckles, sun-induced pigmentation, oily skin, and enlarged pores.
The treatment uses a thin layer of medical-grade carbon lotion applied to the skin, which penetrates into pores and adheres to pigment and oil. A Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm) is then passed over the skin, vaporizing the carbon particles and breaking down pigmentation while deeply cleansing pores.
It belongs to the Pigmentation Treatment family (Spectra, Nd:YAG Toning, Dual Toning, Pico Lasers, Fraxel Dual, Clear + Brilliant, Carbon Peel, CO₂):
- Spectra: Freckles + PIH + acne pigmentation.
- Nd:YAG Toning: Best for dermal pigment.
- Dual Toning: Multi-layer freckles.
- Pico Lasers: Resistant or stubborn pigment.
- Fraxel Dual: Age spots + sun damage + wrinkles.
- Clear + Brilliant: Mild pigment + prevention.
- BB Laser: Sun-induced age spots + freckles.
- Carbon Peel: Best for age spots (liver spots) + glow + oily skin.
- CO₂ Fractional: Pigment + scars/texture.
Purpose & Benefits
- Age Spot Reduction: Gradual fading of liver spots caused by UV exposure.
- Pigment Clearance: Carbon absorbs laser energy, enhancing melanin breakdown.
- Skin Brightening: Evens tone and restores radiance.
- Sebum Control: Reduces oil production and unclogs pores.
- Pore Tightening: Improves texture and smoothness.
- Safe & Gentle: Minimal downtime, suitable for sensitive and Asian skin.
Ideal Candidates
The Carbon Laser Peel in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with age spots (liver spots), freckles, or diffuse sun-induced pigmentation.
- Patients with pigment + oily skin or enlarged pores.
- Those seeking brightening, pigment clearance, and rejuvenation in a single treatment.
Treatment Comparison
- Spectra: Freckles + PIH + acne pigmentation.
- BB Laser: Age spots + sun freckles.
- Carbon Peel: Age spots + dullness + oily skin + pores.
- Pico Lasers: Resistant pigment + deeper spots.
- Fraxel Dual: Age spots + sun damage + wrinkles.
- Clear + Brilliant: Mild pigment or prevention.
Possible Risks & Complications
Generally very safe, but may cause:
- Redness or Warmth: Resolves within hours.
- Dryness or Flaking: Temporary skin renewal.
- Temporary Pigment Darkening: Age spots may darken before fading.
- Rare: PIH (extremely low risk with Korean protocols).
Surgical Techniques Used
- Carbon Lotion Application: Penetrates pores and attaches to pigment/sebum.
- 1064 nm Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser: Targets and vaporizes carbon particles.
- Multi-Pass Technique: Breaks pigment and stimulates collagen.
- Protocol: 3–5 sessions spaced 2–3 weeks apart; maintenance every 6–12 months.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Mild redness, slight warmth.
- 1–3 Days: Age spots may darken slightly, then lighten.
- 1 Week: Clearer, brighter, fresher skin.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ daily.
- Use soothing hydration creams/serums.
- Avoid exfoliants, scrubs, and retinoids for 3–5 days.
- Minimize direct sun exposure during treatment cycles.
Results & Longevity
- After First Session: Noticeable glow and smoother tone.
- 2–3 Sessions: Age spots lighten and pores appear reduced.
- 3–5 Sessions: Significant reduction in liver spots + long-lasting clarity.
- Long-Term: Results last 9–12 months; maintenance improves durability.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Analysis – Determine pigment type and pore condition.
- Preparation – Cleansing + carbon lotion application.
- Carbon Laser Session – Nd:YAG pulses vaporize carbon, break pigment.
- Post-Care – Cooling mask, hydrating/whitening serums.
- Follow-Up – Multi-session protocol, yearly maintenance.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korean dermatologists specialize in carbon toning for pigment + pores.
- Affordable compared to Western laser pigmentation treatments.
- Clinics often combine Carbon Peel + Pico / Fraxel / boosters (Rejuran, PN, exosomes) for maximum results.
- Seoul is known for its Hollywood Peel programs tailored for age spots and rejuvenation.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Session (Full Face): USD 120 – 250
- 3–5 Session Package: USD 500 – 1,000
- Premium Package (Carbon Peel + Pico/Fraxel/Boosters): USD 1,000 – 2,200
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Rejuran, PN, exosomes, whitening drips): USD 100 – 400
💡 In Korea, the Carbon Laser Peel is known as the “glow + pigment eraser” — it not only fades age spots but also smooths skin texture, tightens pores, and leaves a radiant finish.
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Carbon Peel + Pico for age spots + glow.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Carbon Peel for freckles, age spots, and rejuvenation.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Hollywood Peel + Dual Toning for mixed pigment.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: Carbon Peel + Fraxel for pigment + pores.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium Carbon Peel programs with boosters.