HALO Hybrid Fractional Laser

HALO is performed by our senior laser technicians, under the medical direction of Dr. Gidon Frame. A numbing cream can be applied first for comfort, and you'll wear protective eyewear or eye shields throughout the treatment.

Common and temporary

• Redness, swelling and a sensation of heat
• A period of rough or bronzed-looking skin that sheds as it heals
• Downtime that increases at higher intensities

Less common risks

• Infection. Contact the clinic if pain increases, or you notice oozing, crusting that spreads, or a fever.
• A cold sore flare, which is more likely after facial resurfacing
• Prolonged redness
• Small whiteheads (milia) or a short acne flare as the skin heals
• Temporary or, less often, lasting changes in skin pigmentation. Pigment change is more likely in deeper skin tones, so your skin type is assessed carefully and settings are chosen to suit it.
• A flare of melasma, since melasma can darken after light or heat treatment
• Rarely, scarring

When treatment may need to wait

• Pregnancy
• Recently tanned skin
• An active skin infection or cold sore in the area
• A history of cold sores. If you've had them, an antiviral medicine is usually recommended before facial treatment, so please tell us when you book.
• Isotretinoin, now or recently. We'll advise how long to wait after you finish.
• Photosensitizing medicines
• A recent chemical peel or other resurfacing treatment in the area
• A history of keloid or raised scarring
• Any medically significant spot, which is assessed separately first

Aftercare

• Cleanse gently and keep the skin moisturized with the products we recommend.
• Let the skin shed on its own, without picking or scrubbing.
• Avoid sun, heat, saunas and strenuous exercise while your skin is healing, and hold off on makeup until we advise.
• Use daily broad-spectrum sunscreen once your skin has healed, to protect your new skin.

This is not a complete list.