I had the Halo laser treatment and I could smell burning flesh during the treatment. Is this normal?

Question

Richard Burgmeier, MD · Answer

Good question! After performing thousands of laser procedures and seeing great results, I can tell you this is normal, however the suction on the tiny smoke evacuator might have needed turning up. Since Halo is the world’s first hybrid fractional laser system, and since it is an “erbium ablative laser” (a fancy medical way of saying it can remove your top layer of older, discolored, or rough-textured skin damage, and encourage fresh collagen production), then a slight scent comes with the progress.

What I love about the Halo Laser is that it is much less painful than other laser treatments I’ve used. Plus, I’m getting better results and patients typically look great after only 4-5 days of some superficial scabbing. My patients love this new laser.

I use the Halo for skin discoloration, sun damage, age spots, to improve skin texture and tone, and reduce pore size. It will improve fine lines, deep wrinkles, acne scars and even stretch marks. The most important thing is to seek an experienced doctor who has done thousands of procedures to get your best glowing skin results.

Christine Fisher, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you so much for your question! Yes, it is normal to notice a slightly acrid smell during an ablative laser treatment.  Ablation means, "to remove body tissue through vaporization." During a Halo laser treatment at my practice, we use a cooling fan and suction to limit the burning smell and make the procedure more comfortable for the patient.

Bryson G. Richards, MD · Answer

Thank you for this question. We frequently perform Halo treatments, usually in combination with BBL. We use cooling and vacuums to help suck away the burning smell. I hope this helps.

Carmen A. Traywick, MD, FAAD · Answer

Yes, it is normal to notice that type of smell during an ablative laser treatment.  Ablation means, to remove body tissue through vaporization. During a Halo laser treatment at my practice, we use a cooling fan and suction to limit the burning smell and make the procedure more comfortable for the patient. Even with the fan and suction, it is normal to have a hint of that smell. Hope this helps.

Susan Buenaventura, MD, FACS · Answer

HALO is a hybrid fractional laser with ablation that removes some skin so what you describe can be normal; however, the smoke evacuator should be suctioning all of that smoke and odor up.  If it isn't, sometimes the suction needs to be turned higher.  You had a wonderful treatment with HALO.  You should see your doctor for follow up within a week.

I had the Halo laser treatment and I could smell burning flesh during the treatment. Is this normal?

Answers (8)

Answer: I had the Halo laser treatment and I could smell burning flesh during the treatment. Is this normal?

Answer: I had the Halo laser treatment and I could smell burning flesh during the treatment. Is this normal?

Answer: HALO laser

Answer: HALO laser

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I had the Halo laser treatment and I could smell burning flesh during the treatment. Is this normal?

Answers (8)

Answer: I had the Halo laser treatment and I could smell burning flesh during the treatment. Is this normal?

Answer: I had the Halo laser treatment and I could smell burning flesh during the treatment. Is this normal?

Answer: HALO laser

Answer: HALO laser

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Halo Laser

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.