Karlsson turned professional in 1995 and joined the Swedish Golf Tour (SGT) where she recorded five career wins, including winning the Körunda Ladies Open twice. She reached the final in SM Match three years running 1995–1997 but lost to Mia Löjdahl, Anna Berg and Catrin Nilsmark, respectively. After winning the SGT Order of Merit in 1997 and 1998, she joined the Ladies European Tour in 1998.
