Why don't I have any peeling 4 days after Halo? (Photos)

Question

I had halo treatment 4 days ago. Only red and flakey around my mouth and chin. The rest of my face is just dry with a few black pinpoints on my forehead and under my eyes. But no peeling or flaking. I'm worried that it didn't "take" and that ive lost my hard earned money.

Christopher W. Robb, MD, PhD · Answer

Im sure by now this issue has passed for you, but for those who are reading this and have undergone a treatment recently these answers may still be helpful.

It is common for flaking and peeling to occur anywhere on the face during the first 5 days after Halo.  Some areas will peel differently depending on the technique, the oiliness of your skin, and the condition your skin was in before Halo.  There is often a second almost invisible peel around day 10-12 that few people discuss. Its so subtle most don't notice it but this is also completely normal.  Moisturize with Cetaphil or CeraVe. 
Some things you should be more concerned about. The things to look for:
honey colored crust, red streaky areas (noticeably red and streaky), when one side of the face is red and swollen while the other is not, fever. 
If you notice these things with any laser treatment then contact a health care provider.

J. Roberto Ramirez Gavidia, MD, FACS · Answer

Halo is a very tunable laser and the result are aimed to address particular issues. I would recommend talking to your provider to clarified your doubts. In my experience people don't tend to peel much and your skin will feel dry. It is important to keep it moisturizer and to protected from the sun. 
Best, Dr. RG

Promila Banerjee, MD · Answer

Halo procedure is dependent on every individual treatment and the settings used. Secondly the red and flaking happens mostly on the epidermis level if there is/was a lot of sun damage. So if you were taking care of your skin for the most part thats when you will not see a lot of flaking. Secondly, the most important part of the halo procedure is at the dermis level where it stimulates collagen and you will see results not only in 2-3 weeks down the line but you will keep seeing better results in 2 - 3 months.. This not only helps stimilae collagen but also tightens and reduces most superficial level wrinkles.

Elena Vega, DO · Answer

Try not to worry.  The treatment definitely will produce results.  HALO treatments can be specifically adjusted to each patients needs.  You should follow up with your doctor's office to discuss the intensity of your treatment and when you should expect any flaking following your specialized treatment.   It is still too early to see the true results of your treatment.

David A. Sieber, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for the great question. The degree of peeling patients experience is dependent on a number of factors. The most significant factor has to do with the depth and intensity of the treatment. More superficial and low density treatments tend to have very little of the dark bronzing with significant flaking you see in some other patients on here. Even if you're not peeling that doesn't mean that the treatment didn't do anything. I tell patients that it takes 10-12 weeks to see your final results! Best of luck!~Dr. Sieber

Why don't I have any peeling 4 days after Halo? (Photos)

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Why don't I have any peeling 4 days after Halo? (Photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Halo works

Answer: Halo works

Answer: Peeling after Halo

Answer: Peeling after Halo

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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.