A carbon laser peel is a superficial treatment that helps with acne, enlarged pores, oily skin, and uneven skin tone. They’re sometimes called carbon laser facials.

Despite the name, a carbon laser peel isn’t a traditional chemical peel. Instead, your doctor uses a carbon solution and lasers to create a peeling effect. The lasers don’t penetrate the skin too deeply, so there’s very little recovery time. The treatment takes about 30 minutes, and you can resume regular activity right away.

Carbon laser peels usually take place in your doctor’s office or at a medi-spa facility. You should always make sure that the person performing the procedure is trained in administering it. Any skin treatment comes with a risk of injury or infection so having a trained professional perform the carbon laser peel is crucial for safety.