Laser Resurfacing Device in San Antonio

The Halo laser treatment is a hybrid fractional laser that combines both ablative and non-ablative wavelengths to provide comprehensive skin rejuvenation.

The ablative laser wavelength—2940 nm—removes the top layer of dull, dead skin. This exposes new, live cells that have that healthy “glow.”

The non-ablative laser wavelength—1470 nm—goes deeper into targeted dermal layers to heat the cells there.

Halo laser also allows for customization of the power behind the lasers so that you can achieve optimal results for your specific issues.

In both cases, the body’s healing function is triggered, promoting cellular turnover and increasing collagen and elastin production. By combining these two amazing laser modalities in a single technology, Halo allows for more targeted treatment and faster recovery times compared to traditional laser treatments.

Patients may experience some discomfort during the treatment, but the Halo laser is designed to be as comfortable as possible.

Most of our Marcos Medical patients tolerate the treatment well, and some even say it’s virtually painless. The feeling of Halo laser treatment is often described as involving mild to moderate heat, a tingling sensation, or zaps in the treated area similar to the snapping of a rubber band against the skin.

Because every patient is unique, the pain level varies from person to person, and some say the intensity increases as the treatment progresses. To reduce discomfort, we can apply a topical numbing cream before treatment and provide cold air or ice packs afterwards to calm the skin.

Most patients don’t need to take any pain medication, but some may want to take oral medication.

After treatment, the skin may be red, raw, and sensitive for 3 to 5 days. Providers may give you ointment and cleansing instructions to help with discomfort. You should also try to protect your skin from the sun.

The number of treatments required depends on each patient’s individual skin concerns and goals.

Single Treatment

Many people are happy with the results of a single treatment, especially if they have younger skin. Most of our patients achieve their desired results after just one or two treatments.

2 to 3 Treatments

If you have more advanced signs of aging, like severe wrinkles or blemishes, you might need 2 to 3 treatments spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart. This gives your skin time to heal between sessions, so that you and your provider can see the progress and make decisions based on your results.

Maintenance Treatments

After the initial treatments, you can schedule maintenance sessions 6 to 12 months apart to maintain your results. For example, you might get one treatment a year for your face, or 2 to 4 treatments every 12 weeks for your neck and body.

Lighter Treatments

If you want lighter treatments, you can lower the settings or get treated less often. That’s part of the amazing customization and personalization that can be done with our Halo laser technology.

You can discuss your skincare needs with your Marcos Medical provider during the consultation to determine the best treatment plan for you. Most patients achieve their desired results after just 1 or 2 treatments.

Halo laser provides long-term improvements to skin, but it may have some possible, temporary side effects post-treatment.

Swelling

Swelling is a common side-effect of either laser modality and can last 5 to 7 days, depending on the treatment’s intensity. To reduce swelling, patients should sleep with their head elevated, using extra pillows the first night after treatment. 

Redness

Redness is normal and expected, and it usually increases in intensity for the first few days after treatment. Day 3 is typically the most intense, and redness can last 7 to 10 days. 

Pinpoint bleeding

Pinpoint bleeding may occur at the treatment site and can last 1 to 12 hours, depending on the treatment’s depth. 

Warmth

The treated area may feel very warm to the touch for 12 to 24 hours after treatment, similar to a sunburn. You can try using cold compresses to manage any discomfort. 

Itching

Itching is normal during the healing phase. However, you must not scratch, rub, or abrade the treatment area. That way the skin can heal properly and no bacteria is forced into the microwounds before they heal completely.

Peeling

Around the third day after treatment, your skin may start to peel in dots that look like coffee grounds. This peeling usually flakes off by the sixth day, revealing new, radiant skin underneath. Peeling may continue for a few days longer if your Halo treatment was more aggressive. 

Bronzed Appearance

On the second or third day after treatment, your skin may take on a bronzed appearance as the laser’s effects begin working on deeper layers. This will dissipate over the next several days.

Dryness

As peeling starts, your skin may feel tight and dry. Your Marcos Medical provider may recommend certain salves or serums to help with dryness as your skin continues healing.

For post-treatment discomfort, you can try taking over-the-counter oral pain relievers such as Extra Strength Tylenol. You can also try applying a cold compress and sleeping upright for the first couple of nights. 

Sun protection is essential during the healing process.

To further help your skin heal after the first 7 days, you should:

• Keep your skin well moisturized. 
• Avoid excessive sun exposure.
• Wear SPF 30 to 50 sunscreen daily. 
• Stop using Retin-A and other retinoid and/or anti-aging products.
• Use gentle, non-irritating skincare products.
• Avoid exfoliating agents or harsh chemicals that could aggravate your skin.

Yes, the Halo laser is safe for all skin types. The treatment can be customized to each patient’s individual needs and skin type to ensure optimal results.

The results of Halo laser treatment are long-lasting, but they will vary depending on each patient’s individual skin and lifestyle factors. It is important to protect the skin from sun damage and maintain a healthy skincare routine to maximize the longevity of the results.