Cover Photo Courtesy of Sherrif Ibrahim MD
This past year has changed, and in some ways, revolutionized the way we conduct business. And while technology has kept us “apart” but together, it had also resulted in what is being referred to as the “zoom boom”- a surge in cosmetic treatments.
Why the boom? The advent of the videoconference has caused people to take a close look at themselves on the screen, and well, most of us do not like what we see. Newer technology has resulted in higher resolution cameras and higher resolution screens, making every imperfection that much more noticeable. According to a study published in Facial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Medicine, 55% of those surveyed experienced anxiety and self-consciousness regarding their appearance. This anxiety and self-consciousness has led to an uptick in cosmetic procedures, despite the pandemic situation. One proven way to address these concerns is Halo.
Halo laser treatment is the true universal selfie filter in that it works for everyone, regardless of age or skin type. “Nothing can compare with what Halo can do for my patients,” comments Dr. Sherrif Ibrahim, Associate Professor of Dermatology at Rochester Medical Center and founder of Rochester Dermatologic Surgery. “It has replaced almost every other laser treatment in my office.” It especially works wonders on fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation (brown spots), red spots, acne scars, enlarged pores and uneven skin texture. Halo transforms dull, damaged skin into youthful, glowing skin…while providing a long lasting “selfie filter” on all the things we hate about our skin.
What is Halo?
Halo is a revolutionary next-generation hybrid resurfacing laser treatment. Halo combines the best of both types of skin resurfacing and rejuvenation treatments- ablative and non-ablative and transforms damaged and aging skin into healthy, luminous skin. The technology enables the laser to provide you two treatments at once, targeting the superficial layer (epidermis) or your skin, as well as the deeper skin layer, or dermis.
“Halo is the only device able to give results with downtime that consumers desire” comments Thomas Griffin Jr. MD, medical director of Dermatology Associates of Plymouth Meeting, PA. “Halo not only provides two procedures at the same time, but the results are compounded….1 + 1 = 3 in this instance in terms of results” comments Ibrahim. Erin McClean, lead aesthetician at Aya Skincare, the facility performing the most Halo procedures in the US agrees. “Halo is a way to provide ablative results without significant pain or downtime. The magic of Halo is that it can target a specific area of imperfection, or to treat the skin overall.”
This is key, as Halo treats not only the damage you can see with the naked eye, but damage that lies beneath the skin’s surface. It also stimulates the production of collagen, one of the building blocks of our skin, and is the secret to making skin look and feel smoother, younger, and firmer. In fact, Halo is a real-life selfie filter, eliminating skin imperfections including brown spots, red spots, sun damage, texture irregularities, fine lines, and acne scars. There is one small catch- this is a treatment that does involve about 4-5 days of downtime in order to get these amazing results. But the results are worth the small sacrifice. And most of us are in a position to take advantage of a little downtime in the name of self-improvement.
Who is a Halo Candidate?
A major advantage of Halo treatments compared to others is that it truly is for everyone in that it can be used safely on all skin types and on any age skin. Ideally, the best candidate for a more intense and restorative result is someone who is approximately 35-60 years of age who has visible skin imperfections- sun damage, brown spots, etc. who is willing to endure a short amount of downtime (4-5 days) to see a visible, long-lasting change in their skin. “Halo treatments can be modified and personalized to everyone regardless of their skin type or age,” says Griffin. “This allows your provider to safely and effectively address any skin conditions.” This means that the provider can adjust the settings of the laser to fully address certain areas, like undereye crepiness, or fine lines by your mouth that may cause your lipstick to look smeared.
Halo is most often used on the face; however, all of our experts also use Halo for non-facial areas including the neck, chest, décolleté, inner arms, surgical scars, and even the scalp for texture issues on bald men.
While Halo is a safe and effective treatment for most people, there are some conditions that may not make Halo the best option for you. These include pregnancy, abnormal responses to sunlight, photosensitizing medications, medical conditions that affect wound healing, isotretinoin use 6-12 months prior to treatment, blood thinning medications, history of skin cancer, or a history of keloid formation. Your treatment provider will be best suited to determine if you are a candidate.
Halo Expectations
The first step to achieving that selfie filter Halo glow is a consultation. At this first appointment, your treatment provider will review your medical history and your goals for your skin and explain how Halo can help you achieve those results. They will put together a personalized treatment plan based on your goals. This may include skin care products before and/or after treatment, or other treatments to help maintain your results. The procedure itself takes about 90 minutes. Your treatment provider will provide numbing agents to help make the treatment more comfortable. You will be given safety goggles to protect your eyes during the procedure. The treatment area is measured with motion tracking technology so that the entire area is treated effectively. The laser treatment is performed by rolling the handpiece over the skin, providing both laser treatments at the same time. The “roller” which tracks your treatment, is a disposable attachment that is only used on your skin. Most patients describe feeling heat accompanied by a prickling sensation.
After the treatment, your skin will still feel warm for about 30 minutes after the procedure. A restorative Halo treatment will leave your skin red and it is not uncommon to experience swelling for the first couple of days. Your provider will provide a detailed and customized post treatment plan and it is important that you follow all instructions to ensure the best results. This includes avoiding sun exposure while your skin is healing. After a few days, you will notice the skin in the treated area to become darker, a sort of “bronzing” look, which will eventually slough off on days 4-5 following treatment. An ongoing skin care routine and simple lifestyle modifications can extend the results even longer.
Hypnotically Awesome Laser Outcomes
The before and after photos truly show the amazing HALO (or hypnotically awesome laser outcomes) that people are experiencing with just one treatment and about five days downtime. Halo enjoys a high patient satisfaction rate. According to realself.com, Halo had an 89% “worth it” rating. Halo really is the best selfie filter and the answer to videoconference anxiety. To learn more about the unbelievable power of hybrid fractional resurfacing, speak to your aesthetic provider, go to www.halobysciton.com or www.realself.com to find a provider in your area.
