HALO Laser

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The ideal candidates are those experiencing aging, sun damage, uneven skin tone, scarring, enlarged pore, or anyone wishing to improve their complexion and achieve a youthful appearance. The treatment may suit each skin type, so a consultation may be necessary. 

Initial improvements are noticeable immediately, but the full benefits are more apparent after the skin completes its natural healing process, typically within several weeks. 

With good skincare and sun protection, results can last for years. However, some may choose periodic treatments to maintain optimal results.

Minimal downtime is required. A few days post-treatment, patients can expect mild swelling and redness, similar to a sunburn, with possible light peeling as the skin rejuvenates. Depending on the treatment area and depth, the healing process will take about 7 days.

A Halo treatment begins first with a topical numbing cream applied to the treated area to ease any discomfort. This will stay on for approximately 40 minutes and be removed prior to treatment. During treatment, each section will be treated by rolling the hand piece over the skin to deliver laser energy until completed which usually takes no more than 15 minutes, depending on the treatment area. The process can be described as a warm feeling of heat with pricking sensations. Cooling measures often help to enhance comfort.

• Wait at least 9 months post Accutane/isotretinoin use, as it may compromise the skin’s protective barrier.
• Wait at least 24 hours post neurotoxin or filler (injections may be done immediately after, if tolerated).
• This procedure may not be performed on anyone who is pregnant.
• Certain autoimmune conditions, particularly those affecting the skin, may increase the risk of adverse reactions and can impair healing. Please consult with your healthcare provider first.
• If you have a history of skin cancer, especially melanoma, or precancerous lesions in the treatment area, please consult with your healthcare provider first as this treatment could potentially affect malignant cells.
• If you have a history of keloid scars, you may be at higher risk for developing scars after laser treatment.
• Discontinue use of aggressive exfoliants, Retinol/Tretinoin, AHA/BHA products, bleaching, waxing, depilatory creams, or any other exfoliating products in the treatment area 5-7 days prior to treatment.
• Avoid sun exposure and blood thinners 5-7 days before your treatment, such as aspirin, Motrin/Advil (ibuprofen), Aleve (naproxen), fish oil, and vitamin E.  If you have prescription blood thinners, consult with your healthcare provider before discontinuing.
• If you have a history of cold sores, please take a course of oral anti-viral one day prior, day of procedure, and for the next three days after. Please let us know if you need a prescription for a short course to take.
• If the treatment area has compromised skin (severe/inflamed acne, dermatitis, sunburn, open wounds) or you are experiencing an active skin infection (cold sores), the procedure should be postponed until the condition is resolved.

• Immediately after treatment, your skin will feel warm like a sunburn for approximately 1-2 hours. Warmth may continue for 12-24 hours after treatment. Cold compresses may be used to provide comfort during this time.
• Do not apply any products to the skin for 6-8 hours after treatment.
• Avoid wearing makeup for at least 48 hours. Until you're fully healed, keep makeup light and use mineral products only.
• Do not exercise for 48 hours. Avoid strenuous exercise, sweating, excessive heat, saunas, hot tubs, and swimming pools until skin is healed.
• Avoid sun and outdoor sports/activities for one week. Wear mineral SPF at all time when outdoors.
• Swelling is common and expected. The use of cold compresses and ice packs will help to relieve swelling. To avoid further swelling, you may choose to sleep in an upright position the first night after treatment. The first morning post-treatment is when swelling is more prevalent, especially under the eyes. Swelling may last 5-7 days, depending on the aggressiveness of the treatment. 
• Redness is normal and expected. Redness generally increases in intensity the first few days after treatment, with day 3 being the most intense. Redness can persist for 7-10 days, depending on the aggressiveness of the treatment.
• Pinpoint bleeding may occur. This can last anywhere from 1-12 hours, depending on the treatment depth, and may be isolated to certain treatment areas.
• Cleanse the skin two times a day with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, beginning the morning after treatment. Use your hands to gently apply the cleanser and water, and finish by patting dry with a soft cloth. Do NOT rub, scrub, exfoliate, or use a skincare brush in the treated area. Doing so may result in scarring and pigmentation complications. 
• A gentle moisturizer should be applied generously with clean hands over the treated area and reapplied whenever your skin feels dry. You may use a heavier moisturizer/cream (e.g. Aquaphor, etc.) Avoid using products with active or exfoliating ingredients until you're fully healed. SPF 30 or higher should be used daily for at least 2 weeks and up to 3 months to prolong results. Do not apply any other products that were not instructed (e.g. essential oils, coconut oil, etc.) 
• Refrain from using scented lotions or soaps and perfumes/cologne in the treatment area until healed.
• When showering (for the next few days), try to avoid getting shampoo directly on the treated area.
• Post-treatment discomfort may be relieved with over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) if needed. 
• Itching may be experienced during the healing phase and is a normal side effect. Do NOT scratch the treated area as complications can occur. Over-the-counter antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) are non-drowsy and may be taken during the day. Over-the-counter Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), which may cause drowsiness, can be taken at night to relieve itching.
• On the 2nd or 3rd day after treatment, you will increasingly notice tiny dark spots and a bronzed appearance to the treated skin. This is called MENDS (microscopic epidermal necrotic debris). Do NOT pick, rub, or force these off the skin. This is part of the healing process where treated tissue is working its way out of the body, and new skin is being regenerated. During this time, your skin may have a sandpaper texture and will begin to flake and peel. If the face is treated, it could take 7-10 days to complete the healing process. If the neck, chest, or other body parts are treated, it could take up to two weeks to heal. After the peeling process is complete, your skin will have a rosy, pink glow that will gradually resolve. Continue to be gentle with it.
• Do not receive additional skin treatments (laser, microneedling, facial, etc.) or any procedure in the treatment area for at least 2 weeks.
• The treated area is more prone to sunburn and pigmentation change for the first 1-2 weeks. If direct sun exposure is necessary during the first couple weeks, wear a hat or clothing that covers the treated area along with an SPF 30 or higher, reapplying every 2 hours. 
• Your skin will continue to build new collagen for several months. It is important to be on a good skin care regimen to maintain healthy skin and optimal results.