Halo Laser Post Care Instructions

The Halo fractional treatment creates outcomes based on the aggressiveness of the treatment taking into account your skin concerns, the health of your skin and your individual healing ability. Due to this, patient response can vary after a Halo fractional treatment. Erythema (redness) and possibly edema (swelling) are the desired responses within a few minutes after the completion of the procedure. The degree of redness and length of healing time will increase with the depth and coverage of the procedure. 

Post 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 up to 7 days depending on the aggressiveness of the treatment.
  • Pinpoint bleeding may occur. This can last for a few hours - 12 hours depending on the treatment depth and may be isolated to certain treated areas. 
  • Immediately after treatment, swelling is common and expected. Use of a cold compress or ice packs will help to relieve the swelling. To avoid further swelling, you may choose to sleep in an upright position the first night after the treatment. The first morning post treatment is when swelling is most prevalent, especially under the eyes. Swelling may last 2-4 days depending on the aggressiveness of the treatment.
  • The treated area may be extremely warm for 12-24 hours after the treatment. Cold compresses or ice packs may provide comfort during this time.
  • On the 2nd or 3rd day after treatment you will increasingly notice tiny dark spots and bronzed appearance to the treated skin. This is called the MENDS (microscopic epidermal necrotic debris). In individuals with heavily pigmented skin, or in areas where sun damage has produced pigmented lesions, the microscopic wounds, known as MENDS, contain large amounts of melanin. Because there are so many MENDS, they can make the skin look bronzed and small areas appear crusted (do not try to scratch them off). This is part of the healing process where treated tissue is working its way out of your body as new fresh skin is regenerated. During this time, your skin will be very dry and have a sandpaper texture and will begin to flake and peel. If the face is treated, it could take 5-7 days for the peeling process to be completed. If the neck, chest or anywhere on the body was treated, this process could take up to 2 weeks.
  • Keep the skin moist by reapplying moisturizer, such as La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5 or Eucerin Aquaphor ointment throughout the day. 
  • After the peeling process is complete, your skin will have a rosy, pink glow that will gradually resolve. Your clinician will inform you and advise you of when make-up and your regular skin care can be used.
  • Patients who are acne prone may notice a temporary breakout post treatment that should resolve with time. 
  • If an antiviral was prescribed for you, continue to take as directed. 
  • Post treatment discomfort may be relieved by over the counter oral pain relievers; i.e. Extra Strength Tylenol or prescribed pain medication if ordered by the doctor. 
  • Itching may be experienced during the healing phase and is completely normal. Oral Benadryl may help itching but can cause drowsiness. DO NOT scratch the treated area as scarring and pigmentation complications can occur.