Laser treatments for skin health, hair removal, and even reducing sweating have become increasingly popular, but all lasers work differently and provide unique benefits. According to Dr. Jennifer Holman of U.S. Dermatology Partners Tyler, “HALO is a popular laser skin resurfacing solution. Like other resurfacing treatments, HALO laser sessions require some down time for healing. However, it’s a relatively short healing time compared to other options, and it still provides advanced skin rejuvenation thanks to the hybrid ablative and non-ablative laser technology.” In this blog, Dr. Holman talks HALO laser treatment downtime and what to expect after treatment.
What Is the HALO Laser?
The HALO laser system is an innovative fractional laser treatment designed for skin resurfacing. This is a rejuvenation process where the outer layers of dead and damaged skin cells are removed to reveal even layers of new, healthy skin below. In addition to removing outer layers of skin like other resurfacing treatments, HALO’s hybrid functionality utilizes dual wavelengths to penetrate deeper into skin’s layers and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin proteins. This is possible because the HALO system combines both ablative and non-ablative laser energy. Ablative lasers remove the outer layers of skin to create a more even surface tone and texture. Non-ablative laser waves go deeper, targeting underlying skin concerns like slowing collagen and elastin production that happens as we age. The deeper laser waves penetrate beneath skin’s surface to accelerate the production of collagen and elastin. Because HALO combines these two technologies, both visual and underlying concerns related to skin health and beauty are addressed simultaneously.
Why HALO Laser Has Downtime
According to Dr. Holman, “HALO laser recovery is minimal compared to other resurfacing treatments that provide similar results. Any meaningful skin rejuvenation treatment requires some amount of downtime for healing, but HALO laser resurfacing minimizes downtime because it triggers the healing process. The non-ablative laser energy penetrates beneath skin’s outer layers and creates micro-injuries that stimulate wound healing response and are beneficial for many reasons, including increased collagen and elastin production, accelerated shedding of dead and damaged skin, and faster regeneration of skin. Even with this boost, the resurfacing effects of HALO’s hybrid technology means downtime for healing.” Some of the most common side effects that require healing following HALO laser resurfacing include:
- Redness and warmth from increased blood circulation.
- Swelling and inflammation.
- Temporary hyperpigmentation as pigmented cells rise to skin’s surface before being shed.
- Skin peeling and flaking.
These mild symptoms are signs that the resurfacing treatment is working well. Traditional skin resurfacing is completed with only ablative lasers and can mean two or more weeks of downtime as well as skin redness, crusting, and activity restrictions. Dr. Holman says, “HALO reduces downtime significantly. Most patients return to their regular routines within a week, allowing people with more pressing professional or personal schedules to fit this procedure in without having to derail their entire schedule. I like to say it’s a happy medium between the minimal results possible with a gentle, non-ablative laser treatment and more aggressive fully ablative resurfacing procedures.”
HALO Laser Downtime: Healing Timeline
Everyone heals differently, but according to Dr. Holman, “I always want to set clear expectations about the HALO laser healing timeline, so there are no surprises. Understanding the timeline means patients are able to plan for work, personal obligations, and other factors before we even begin treatment.” The typical HALO skin resurfacing healing timeline is as follows:
- Day 0–1 – skin feels warm and may be red. Most people compare this to a mild sunburn. There may be swelling, especially if sensitive areas like those around the eyes, are treated. Skin may also feel tight. Patients should stay home, rest, and hydrate for the first 24 hours.
- Days 2–3 – skin redness and heat should subside after the first day and into the second. Skin may develop a dark or bronzed appearance as pigmented cells rise to the surface and are shed away. Swelling should continue to abate. Skin may feel dry and tight.
- Days 3–5 – this is often the worst part of the side effects as dead and damaged skin cells start to shed, causing skin to peel. It can feel rough to the touch, and skin tone and texture may be uneven. Do not pick at skin or exfoliate. Let skin shed naturally to prevent increased irritation and uneven healing.
- Days 5–7 – peeling should be significantly diminished or stopped. Redness should be nearly gone, and brighter, smoother skin is revealed. Most patients are able to resume their daily routines at this point, including applying cosmetics if desired.
What to Expect Post Laser Treatment
When it comes to post laser treatment expectations, Dr. Holman says, “Following treatment, side effects will happen. What’s important is that patients know what’s typical and expected as well as what symptoms indicate concern. I strongly emphasize the need for rest with my patients. After a typical HALO resurfacing session, patients need to take three to five days off to rest and heal. However, I can customize the depth of treatment to fit a more active schedule, but the results may not be as noticeable.” Below, Dr. Holman outlines the typical side effects and when to seek dermatologist support:
Typical Side Effects Following HALO Laser Skin Resurfacing
- Redness and warmth.
- Mild swelling.
- Dryness or tightness.
- Flaking or peeling.
When to Call Your Provider
- Pain increases instead of decreasing.
- You notice infection warning signs like pus, spreading redness, or fever.
- Skin blisters severely.
Post Laser Treatment Care Tips
To minimize post laser resurfacing downtime, it’s essential to follow your aftercare routine, which should include:
- Gentle cleansing – use a fragrance- and exfoliant-free cleanser in the morning and evening to keep healing skin clean.
- Moisturizing – following laser treatment, skin will likely feel tight and dry. Moisturizer is essential to combat these side effects. Choose a rich moisturizer that’s soothing and hydrating. Apply at least twice a day. You can layer additional moisturizer to add hydration to treated areas as recommended by your dermatologist.
- Sun protection – wearing sunscreen alone may not cut it as skin heals following laser resurfacing. As much as possible, avoid sun exposure entirely. When in the sun, apply sunscreen and wear hats, gloves, or protective clothing to shield skin.
- Avoid harsh products – if you typically use skincare products with retinol, alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), vitamin C, and exfoliants, these ingredients are too harsh for healing skin. Your dermatologist can let you know when it’s safe to incorporate these products without irritating skin.
- Follow your dermatologist’s aftercare instructions – this is essential. Every patient and HALO treatment are different. Make sure to stick to your dermatologist’s skincare recommendations, use any medicated products provided, and follow activity guidelines. This minimizes risk for complications and ensures optimal results.
How HALO Fits into a Long-Term Skin Rejuvenation Plan
Explaining the use of HALO skin resurfacing as part of long-term skin rejuvenation plans, Dr. Holman says, “Versatility is the beauty of HALO laser treatment. It is highly customizable, works well with other treatments, and boosts collagen and elastin production, so patients see continued benefits months down the road.” Below, Dr. Holman discusses the three main ways to utilize HALO laser therapy in your long-term skin rejuvenation plans.
Hit Reset with HALO
Many patients refer to HALO laser skin resurfacing as a way to reset their skin because it improves skin’s appearance and health in a short time. Specifically, HALO resets:
- Years of cumulative sun damage.
- Uneven skin tone and texture.
- Unhealthy supporting tissues and structures that leave surface-level changes looking incomplete.
Combining HALO with Other Treatments
Many patients choose to receive HALO skin resurfacing once every other year. To preserve and extend the results, consider incorporating other skin rejuvenation procedures between HALO sessions, including:
- MOXI laser treatments – this non-ablative diode laser therapy is a great maintenance and prevention option between HALO sessions.
- Chemical peels – these remove a smaller amount of skin’s outer layers, leading to less discomfort compared to more intense ablative laser treatment.
- Using medical grade skincare – a dermatologist can recommend specific medical-grade skincare products to meet your needs and extend and boost HALO results.
Long-Term Benefits
Aging leads to diminished production of collagen and elastin proteins that give skin smooth, fullness in our youth. By stimulating collagen and elastin production at multiple depths, HALO skin resurfacing provides long-term benefits like:
- Improvement in skin’s appearance, continuing for months after treatment.
- Gradual, lasting improvement in skin firmness and elasticity.
- Longer-lasting results with proper maintenance sessions and at-home care.
Who Is a Good Candidate for HALO Laser?
HALO laser treatment is safe and effective for most skin types. Dr. Holman cautions, “It’s essential to be straightforward with your dermatologist during a consultation, so you can explain any concerns you have related to past treatments or current medical diagnoses that may impact skin resurfacing. Your dermatologist will customize the intensity of treatment and personalize your procedure to ensure you achieve optimal benefits and minimal drawbacks. During a consultation, you’ll also discuss skin resurfacing aftercare to promote healing.” HALO laser skin resurfacing is well-suited for those:
- Seeking moderate skin rejuvenation results without extensive healing time.
- Looking to improve the appearance of sun damage, uneven skin tone and texture, fine lines, and wrinkles
- Dealing with acne scars or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Willing to commit to the appropriate aftercare and sun protection following HALO treatment.
Set Realistic Expectations & Achieve Your Goals with HALO
According to Dr. Holman, “Because HALO laser skin resurfacing is a hybrid laser treatment, there isn’t as much downtime compared to other therapies, but you will still need to rest and give skin time to heal. The results are often worth the minimal downtime for those patients who want to see significant rejuvenation without spending weeks with uncomfortable, healing skin.”
Schedule a Consultation to Discuss HALO Laser Skin Resurfacing
Still have questions about HALO laser skin resurfacing and whether it’s the best option to achieve your goals? Schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist at U.S. Dermatology Partners. They’ll evaluate your skin health, discuss concerns and expectations, answer questions, and help you determine the best treatment options, including HALO laser treatment.
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