PRE – AND POST TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS
FOR HALO FRACTIONAL LASER TREATMENT

Immediately after treatment, the desired response includes:

• Erythema (redness)
• Mild to moderate edema (swelling)
• Warmth or sunburn sensation

The degree of redness and healing time increases with:

• Depth of treatment
• Percentage of coverage
• Energy settings used

Typical Healing Timeline

• Redness: 1 – 3 days (longer with more aggressive settings)
• Swelling: 1 – 3 days
• MENDS (Microscopic Epidermal Necrotic Debris): Bronzed/dry sandpaper texture develops within 24 – 48 hours
• Peeling: Days 3 – 5
• Makeup: Usually safe on Day 3 – 5 once skin is intact and no signs of infection
• Glow & clarity improvement: Within 5 – 7 days
• Collagen remodeling: Continues for several months

Downtime Expectations

Most patients experience 3 – 5 days of social downtime.

However, depending on aggressiveness:

• Some patients may have redness lasting up to 7 – 10 days.
• Full skin normalization may take up to 3 – 4 weeks.

Plan important events accordingly and allow up to one month for complete recovery if undergoing a more aggressive treatment.

5 – 7 Days Before Treatment

Discontinue the following (if medically appropriate and approved by your provider):

• NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Aspirin, etc.)
• Magnesium
• Vitamin D
• Fish oil
• Flaxseed oil

This helps reduce:

• Bruising
• Petechiae
• Excess inflammation

Medication Disclosure (Very Important)

Inform your provider about all medications and supplements, especially:

• Antibiotics
• Photosensitizing medications
• Prescription blood thinners
• Biological infusions or injections
• Steroids
• Hormone therapy

If you have a history of cold sores, begin antiviral medication as prescribed.

Pain & Swelling Prevention Protocol

For pain control:

• Take 2 tablets of Extra Strength Tylenol (1000 mg total) 1 hour prior to treatment.

For swelling prevention:

• Take 1 tablet of a non-drowsy antihistamine 2 – 3 hours prior to treatment.

Eye Area Treatments

If treating upper or lower eyelids:

• Bring a driver with you, or
• Arrange transportation home.

Temporary swelling, tearing, and light sensitivity may impair driving.

1 – 2 Weeks Before Treatment

• Avoid sun exposure and tanning.
• Discontinue retinoids, exfoliating acids, and aggressive resurfacing products unless directed.
• Avoid waxing or chemical peels in treatment area.

Day of Treatment

• Arrive with clean skin (no makeup, lotion, sunscreen).
• Eat normally and stay hydrated.

First 24 Hours

• Skin will feel warm and tight (similar to a sunburn).
• Use cold compresses as needed.
• Sleep with head elevated to minimize swelling.
• Avoid NSAIDs unless directed.

Cleansing

Beginning the evening of treatment or next morning:

• Cleanse twice daily with lukewarm water and gentle cleanser.
• Use hands only.
• Pat dry gently.
• Do not scrub.

Moisturizing

• Use recommended moisturizer to keep skin hydrated.
• Avoid occlusive ointments unless instructed.
• Do not allow skin to excessively dry.

MENDS & Peeling (Days 2 – 5)

You may notice:

• Bronzing
• Tiny dark dots
• Sandpaper texture

This is normal.

DO NOT PICK, SCRUB, OR EXFOLIATE.

Allow natural shedding to occur.

Activity Restrictions

• Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours.
• Avoid saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs.
• Avoid swimming pools for several days.
• Shower with lukewarm water; avoid direct hot spray on treated area.

Sun protection is critical for 2 months post-treatment.

• Avoid direct sun exposure.
• Wear broad-spectrum SPF daily.
• If prone to melasma or diffuse pigmentation:
  
  • Use tinted sunscreen at all times.
  • Especially when boating, at the beach, or poolside.

Do NOT use self-tanners on treated areas.

Self-tanners may trigger pigment irregularities.

We recommend a follow-up appointment 1 – 2 weeks after treatment to:

• Evaluate healing
• Monitor pigmentation
• Adjust skincare
• Plan future sessions

HALO treatments may be performed once or in a series depending on goals.

• Excessive swelling
• Drainage resembling pus
• Increasing warmth
• Fever of 101.5°F or higher
• Severe pain
• Spreading redness

Early intervention prevents complications.

Proper preparation and aftercare are essential for optimal results and safe healing. If you have concerns at any time during recovery, contact the clinic immediately.