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 most intense. Redness can persist for up to 7 days depending on the aggressiveness of the treatment. following 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 more 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.
• After the peeling process is complete, your skin will have a rosy, pink glow that will gradually resolve. 
• 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.
• 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.

Post-Care:

• Cleansing: Cleanse the skin multiples times a day with Puracyn Wound Wash and Clean Skin Club Towels. Use gentle patting motions. DO NOT rub, scrub, use an exfoliant or skin care brush on the treated area.
• Moisturizer: Moisturizer should be applied generously with clean hands over the treated area and reapplied whenever your skin feels dry. Start with Plated Calm followed by ZO Hydrating Creme for 2-3 days. When the swelling is improved you can transition to Plated Daily and ZO Daily Power Defense for the remainder of your healing process. Avoid any exfoliating polish, complexion renewal pads, vitamin C or any other irritative products for 7-10 days or until the peeling process is complete.
• Sunscreen: Sunscreen is a MUST and should be used daily beginning the day after treatment and used consistently for up to 3 months post procedure. Use a physical sunscreen with Broadband UVA and UVB protection and a SPF of 30. Ensure to reapply during sun exposure.

Warning:

If you experience excessive swelling or any of the following signs of infection please contact the office at 860-746-0007 immediately.

• • Drainage
  • Increased warmth at or around the treated area
  • Fever
  • Extreme Itching
  • Cold Sores