HALO Hybrid Fractional Laser

HALO is called a “hybrid” laser because it combines two wavelengths in one treatment. An ablative wavelength resurfaces the skin's surface to improve dullness and pigment, while a non-ablative wavelength stimulates collagen and elastin renewal for smoother, more even-looking skin. Settings are customized to your concerns and desired downtime.

We’ll first clean your skin of any makeup and moisturizers. For male patients, you’ll need to shave in order for us to treat your lower face. Numbing cream will be applied to your canvas.

DO

• Cleanse twice a day with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, starting the morning after treatment. Use your hands and gentle patting motions.
• Apply moisturizer generously with clean hands, and reapply whenever your skin feels dry.
• Wear sunscreen daily, starting the day after treatment and for at least 3 months.
• Makeup can usually be worn once flaking is complete.

AVOID

• Rubbing, scrubbing, exfoliants, washcloths or skin care brushes on the treated area.
• Products not recommended by the clinic, such as essential oils or coconut oil.
• Getting shampoo directly on the treated area.
• Strenuous exercise and sweating until your skin has settled.
• Scratching or picking, as this can lead to scarring or pigment changes. If itching is bothersome, contact the clinic.

EXPECT

• The treated area may feel warm for 1-2 hours, and warmth may continue for 12-24 hours.
• Redness is normal. It usually builds over the first few days, is most noticeable around day 3, and can last up to 7 days.
• Tiny dark spots and a bronzed look (called MENDS) usually appear on day 2 or 3. This is a normal part of the skin's renewal. Your skin may feel dry and rough, like sandpaper, before it flakes off. Keep your skin well moisturized and do not pick.
• Once flaking is complete, you can return to your full skincare routine.
• Swelling is common right after treatment.
• Contact the clinic with any concerns, such as blistering or excessive redness or swelling.

How many treatments will I need?

It depends on what we are treating. Melasma: 2 sessions spaced 4 weeks apart. Scarring: 2-4 sessions spaced 4 weeks apart. Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI: 2 sessions spaced 4 weeks apart. For maintenance, we recommend 1 treatment every 6 months, or as desired. A consultation is required before treatment, or a Pre-Treatment Consultation & Skin Preparation Appointment if you are an existing patient.

How long will recovery take?

Social downtime is usually 3-5 days, and you can wear makeup the day after your treatment. Downtime varies from person to person, and your provider will review what to expect with you at your consultation.

What happens during the treatment?

Numbing cream is applied before treatment to keep you comfortable. Your provider treats one section of your face at a time by gliding the HALO handpiece across the skin in a crisscross pattern.

What should I expect after treatment?

The treated area will likely feel warm for 1-2 hours, and mild warmth may continue for 12-24 hours. A cold compress or facial mist can help. The area will look red for up to 7 days, usually most noticeable on day 3. Swelling is common between days 2 and 4 and settles after that.

What results can I expect?

Improvement in the appearance of discolouration, fine lines and wrinkles, pore size, and overall skin tone and clarity. Results vary.

Can I return to normal activities after the treatment?

Yes. For the first 24 hours, protect your skin as instructed; after that you can return to your normal activities. Your skin will begin to flake after the first 24 hours, which can take up to 5 days, and you can wear makeup during this time.

When will I see results?

Initial results usually appear between days 2 and 5, and your skin continues to improve over the following 2 to 3 weeks.

How long will my results last?

Results can be maintained with daily sunscreen, a good home care routine and maintenance treatments every 6 months.