By: Emily Johnston, PA-C
What HALO Does
I’m Emily Johnston, PA-C. HALO is a hybrid fractional laser that uses two wavelengths in one treatment. The ablative wavelength resurfaces the top layer to smooth texture and reduce the look of enlarged pores. The non-ablative wavelength heats deeper layers to stimulate collagen, which helps soften fine lines and even out sun damage and discoloration. The goal is clearer, smoother, more balanced skin with a manageable recovery.
Downtime and Recovery
Plan for 3–7 days of social downtime. Immediately after treatment you’ll be pink and warm. Over the next few days a bronzed cast and small “coffee-ground” specks (MENDS) appear and flake off naturally. Many patients are comfortable wearing makeup by day 2–3 and resume normal activities with moisturizer and SPF. For major events, schedule HALO 3–4 weeks ahead.
Results Timeline
You’ll notice an initial boost in brightness within 7–10 days—skin looks cleaner, makeup applies more smoothly, and pores look less visible. Collagen remodeling continues for 8–12 weeks, with the most noticeable refinement around the three-month point. We typically check progress at six weeks and again at three months to plan next steps.
Number of Sessions
Treatment plans are customized to your goals. Most first-time patients start with 1–2 sessions spaced 6–12 weeks apart, then move to annual maintenance. For acne scarring or more pronounced texture, 2–3 sessions may be recommended. We adjust energy, density, and number of passes to match your skin type, timeline, and comfort.
Combination Treatments
HALO pairs well with other technologies. BBL (broadband light) can address reds and browns while HALO improves texture and tone. MOXI offers lighter fractional maintenance between larger treatments. Together, these options can support a year-round plan for clarity, smoothness, and glow.
Candidacy and Treatment Day
During consultation we review medical history, recent sun exposure, medications (especially photosensitizers), Fitzpatrick skin type, and cold-sore history. We may delay if you’re tanned, pregnant, nursing, have an active infection, or other contraindications. On the day of treatment, we cleanse, apply topical numbing, and perform tailored passes. Most patients describe a warm, tolerable sensation. You’ll leave with clear aftercare instructions and product recommendations (gentle cleanser, hydrating barrier cream, and broad-spectrum SPF). Sun protection is essential to protect results.
Key Terms
Ablative: removes microscopic columns of skin to resurface and smooth.
Non-ablative: heats tissue without removal to stimulate collagen.
Social downtime: a short period when you may choose lighter plans due to visible healing; no bed rest required.
MENDS: small, temporary specks indicating controlled renewal that lift away to reveal fresh skin.
Bottom Line
If your main concerns are texture, pores, uneven tone, or early fine lines, HALO offers noticeable improvement with a practical recovery window. It is efficient, customizable, and fits busy schedules. Our priority is a plan that respects your calendar and supports long-term skin health. If you’re ready to explore HALO, we’ll set realistic milestones and choose settings tailored to your skin and goals.
