Preparing for a Hollywood Peel: Tips for the Best Results
The Hollywood Peel, also known as the Carbon Laser Facial, is a popular non-invasive treatment that leaves skin smoother, clearer, and glowing with minimal downtime. It’s a favorite among celebrities for its quick results and ability to target pores, fine lines, and acne.
To get the most out of the treatment, proper preparation is important. Avoid sun exposure, strong skincare products like retinoids, and chemical peels for at least a week before your appointment. Keep your skin clean and well-hydrated.
On the day of the peel, skip heavy makeup, exfoliants, and waxing to prevent irritation. Follow your provider’s instructions and maintain a gentle skincare routine. With the right prep, you’ll enjoy better results and a smoother recovery.
What is a Hollywood Peel?
Before we jump into preparation, let’s quickly understand what the Hollywood Peel involves.
A Hollywood Peel is a gentle laser treatment that targets the skin's surface and deeper layers. The process involves applying a thin layer of carbon lotion to the face, which penetrates pores. A laser is then passed over the skin, destroying the carbon particles along with dead skin cells, impurities, and excess oil. The treatment helps to:
- Minimize pores
- Reduce fine lines
- Brighten dull skin
- Improve skin tone and texture
- Combat acne and oily skin
Despite its nickname, this treatment isn’t only for red carpet-ready celebrities—it’s accessible and beneficial for anyone looking for a skin refresh.
Why Pre-Treatment Preparation Matters
Even though the Hollywood Peel is considered a low-risk, lunchtime procedure, preparation is key to maximizing its benefits and avoiding unnecessary side effects.
Proper preparation:
- Ensures better laser penetration
- Reduces the chance of skin irritation
- Enhances the longevity of results
- Allows your aesthetician to work with the best skin condition possible
Let’s now explore what you should do in the days and weeks leading up to your appointment.
1. Consult With a Professional
Schedule a Patch Test or Consultation
Before booking your first Hollywood Peel session, it’s important to consult a certified dermatologist or aesthetician. A professional consultation helps determine:
- If your skin type is suitable for the procedure
- If you have any underlying conditions (e.g., rosacea, eczema)
- What your skincare goals are
During this appointment, a patch test may be performed to check for any adverse reactions to the carbon solution or the laser.
2. Avoid Sun Exposure
7-10 Days Before Treatment
Sunburned or tanned skin is more sensitive to laser treatments and may increase the risk of pigmentation or irritation.
Do this:
- Avoid direct sun exposure
- Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily
- Consider a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when outside
Avoiding UV exposure protects your skin barrier and makes your skin more receptive to the laser.
3. Discontinue Active Ingredients in Skincare
5-7 Days Before Treatment
Ingredients such as retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin C, and benzoyl peroxide can cause sensitivity and irritation when used in the days leading up to a laser procedure.
Avoid:
- Retinol/Retinoic Acid
- Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid
- Salicylic Acid
- Strong exfoliants or scrubs
Instead, opt for gentle cleansers, hydrating serums, and a light moisturizer to maintain skin health without irritation.
4. Avoid Waxing, Threading, or Chemical Peels
7-10 Days Before Treatment
Do not perform any hair removal or chemical exfoliation treatments on the face before your Hollywood Peel. These can make the skin overly sensitive and increase the risk of inflammation or burning.
Avoid:
- Waxing or threading facial hair
- Bleaching creams
- Microdermabrasion or chemical peels
If facial hair removal is necessary, consult your provider for guidance.
5. Skip Tanning Beds and Self-Tanners
10 Days Before Treatment
Tanning—whether from UV beds or topical tanning products—can cause uneven results and potential side effects like hypopigmentation or burns.
What to do instead:
- Postpone using any tanning lotions or bronzers
- Let any previous self-tanner fade completely
- Avoid sunless tanning sprays
6. Stay Hydrated
Ongoing
Hydrated skin heals faster and responds better to laser treatments.
Tips:
- Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day
- Use a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid or glycerin
- Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate skin
Healthy hydration helps your skin appear plump and radiant post-treatment.
7. Stop Taking Blood-Thinning Supplements or Medications
3-5 Days Before (With Doctor’s Guidance)
Some supplements and medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, or fish oil may increase the risk of bruising or bleeding during treatment.
Always consult your healthcare provider before stopping any prescribed medication. Share a list of all supplements and drugs you’re taking during your consultation.
8. Avoid Heavy Makeup On the Day of Treatment
On Treatment Day
Your face needs to be clean and free of any products before the peel.
Avoid:
- Foundation, BB cream, concealer
- Moisturizer or SPF
- Facial oils or serums
Use a gentle cleanser and pat your face dry before your appointment. Your provider will do a final cleanse as well.
9. Wear Comfortable Clothing and Plan for Minimal Downtime
Although downtime is minimal, your skin may feel warm, slightly red, or sensitive after the treatment.
Tips:
- Wear loose, comfortable clothes that don’t rub against your face
- Avoid sweaty activities or heavy workouts post-procedure
- Schedule your appointment at a time when you can relax afterwards
You’ll typically be able to resume your normal routine the next day, but it’s still good to take it easy.
10. Be Honest About Your Skin History
Being open with your provider helps ensure safety and effectiveness.
Let your aesthetician know if you:
- Have had cold sores or herpes outbreaks (as laser can trigger them)
- Have undergone recent treatments like Botox or fillers
- Have used Accutane in the past 6 months
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Transparency helps avoid complications and allows the professional to tailor the treatment to your skin’s needs.
Final Thoughts: Setting Yourself Up for Success
The Hollywood Peel is a powerful skin rejuvenation tool, but like any advanced cosmetic treatment, it requires thoughtful preparation. By following these pre-treatment tips, you not only minimize the risk of irritation or complications—you also pave the way for longer-lasting, more radiant results.
Quick Checklist Summary:
- Book a consultation and patch test
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning
- Stop using active skincare ingredients
- Skip waxing, peels, and threading
- Stay hydrated
- Go makeup-free on the day of treatment
- Be honest about medications and health history
- Avoid exercise immediately afterward
By taking a proactive approach and partnering with a trusted skincare professional, your Hollywood Peel experience can leave you feeling confident, refreshed, and glowing like a star.