Technology
HALO is a hybrid fractional laser that delivers both ablative and non-ablative energy to the skin within the same treatment to address tone and texture.
In brief
HALO is a hybrid fractional laser made by Sciton. Its defining feature is the ability to deliver two different kinds of laser energy, ablative and non-ablative, to the same microscopic treatment zones within a single session. Ablative energy removes very small columns of the outer skin, while non-ablative energy heats deeper tissue without removing it. Combining the two is intended to give meaningful resurfacing of tone and texture while keeping recovery generally shorter than that of fully ablative laser resurfacing.
Fractional lasers treat the skin in a pattern of tiny columns, leaving areas of untreated skin in between to aid faster healing. HALO applies a non-ablative wavelength that heats the deeper dermis to stimulate collagen and renewal, together with an ablative wavelength that removes microscopic channels at the surface to address pigment and texture. Because both are delivered to the same zones, the treatment aims to combine surface refinement with deeper stimulation. The intensity can be adjusted, so treatment can be tailored from lighter sessions with less downtime to more intensive settings.
HALO is used for signs of photodamage and ageing such as uneven pigmentation, dullness, fine lines, enlarged-appearing pores, and rough or uneven texture, and it is sometimes used to help soften the appearance of certain scars and stretch marks. It is a resurfacing tool for the appearance of the skin and is not a treatment for skin cancer or medically significant lesions, which require separate assessment. Because outcomes and safety depend strongly on skin type and the concern being treated, and because settings are highly adjustable, whether HALO is appropriate and at what intensity is determined during a clinical assessment.
Anti-Aging Medical & Laser Clinic
Anti-Aging Medical & Laser Clinic can help you explore this technology, related treatments, and connected concerns.
The main advantage of HALO is that a single platform can combine ablative and non-ablative effects, aiming to deliver more noticeable change in tone and texture than a non-ablative treatment alone while generally involving less recovery than fully ablative resurfacing. Its adjustable intensity allows treatment to be scaled to the individual, from lighter sessions to more intensive ones. Results typically continue to build over weeks as the skin renews, and the degree of change varies between individuals and with the number of sessions.
Expected effects after treatment commonly include redness, swelling, a sensation of heat, and a period of rough or bronzed-looking skin that sheds as it heals, with downtime that increases at higher intensities. Less common risks include infection, prolonged redness, and temporary or, less often, lasting changes in skin pigmentation; the risk of pigment change is higher in darker skin tones, which requires careful assessment and setting selection. HALO is generally avoided in pregnancy, on recently tanned skin, with active skin infections, and with certain photosensitising medications or a history of keloid scarring. Diligent sun protection and aftercare are important, and a physician-led consultation is essential to confirm suitability and plan intensity.
Related Treatments
Uses selected laser and light-based wavelengths, guided by assessment, to help address excess pigment, sun damage and uneven skin tone.
Controlled laser energy that renews the skin surface and stimulates repair, helping soften texture, scars, fine lines and sun damage.
Combines resurfacing and collagen-remodelling treatments, selected according to scar type, depth and skin type, to soften the texture and appearance of scars and stretch marks.
Conditions It May Help Address
The relationship between a technology and a concern depends on the treatment plan, patient assessment, and how the technology is being used.
Acne is a skin condition that can affect people of all ages and skin types. Our physicians assess what is happening in your skin and help you choose an appropriate medical treatment, maintenance and preventive plan as well as your at-home skincare.
Darkened patches, spots and texture changes caused by excess pigment and cumulative sun exposure.
Hollowing or darkness beneath the eyes from shadowing, pigment, visible vessels, thin skin, or volume loss.
Visible pores and an irregular skin surface often linked to oil, acne, or aging.
Skin that looks less smooth or radiant and feels uneven because of surface irregularity.
Visible facial creases that develop from repeated expression, collagen loss, sun exposure and skin dryness.
Reduced firmness and mild tissue descent related to aging and the decline of collagen and elastin.
Loose neck skin, horizontal creases, or visible muscle bands that can reduce definition of the neck and jawline.
Changes in skin colour or texture from rapid stretching, injury, or surgical healing.
Talk with Anti-Aging Clinic about your goals and the options that may be worth exploring.
FAQ
It means HALO delivers two kinds of laser energy, ablative (which removes microscopic columns of surface skin) and non-ablative (which heats deeper tissue without removing it), to the same tiny treatment zones. Combining them aims to help tone and texture while keeping recovery shorter than fully ablative resurfacing.
Downtime depends on the intensity chosen. Lighter treatments may involve a few days of redness and roughness, while more intensive settings involve more swelling and a longer period of visibly healing skin. Your clinician will match the intensity to your goals and set out what to expect.
HALO is sometimes used to help soften the appearance of certain scars and stretch marks, though results vary and it is not suitable for every scar type. A clinical assessment is needed to judge whether it is a reasonable option for your particular concern.
Fractional laser resurfacing carries a higher risk of pigment changes in darker skin, so careful assessment of skin type and conservative settings are important. Suitability is decided individually during consultation rather than assumed.
Some people see meaningful change after one treatment, while others benefit from a series, particularly at lighter settings. The plan depends on your skin, your concern, and the intensity used, and is determined during your assessment.
Reviews
Reviews help show the human side of care, from the first consultation to comfort, communication, treatment planning, and follow-up.
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Anti-Aging Medical & Laser Clinic combines medical assessment, individualized planning, physician oversight, and a broad range of treatment options in its Vancouver clinic.
Bring your questions, treatment history, and goals. Your provider can help you understand appropriate options, expected recovery, and realistic outcomes.
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