Can/Should Sciton Halo laser and BBL be used together? How long to wait between 1st and 2nd Halo treatment?

Question

Hi, I've had the profractional laser and bbl treatments together in one session. Does it make sense to combine bbl with the hew halo laser? Also, how long should I ideally wait between my first and second halo treatment? I'm 40 years old and the doctor says my skin is in great condition, but I do have discoloring on my neck, especially.

Kaveh Alizadeh, MD, MSc, FACS · Answer

I do recommend to combine BBL and Halo treatments (by the way Halo is different than profractional laser with regards to how it operates on the skin) because they address different issues with your skin. In our practice, we find that starting your treatment with the Sciton BBL (a form of intense pulse light IPL) followed by the Sciton Halo gives you the best combination for removing the unwanted pigmentation and vascularity while allowing for ablation of the top layer of the skin and causing deeper tissue tightening. As always, your physician needs to determine if you are a candidate for the combination treatment but the beauty of the Sciton Joule is that you can modulate the response based on your individual needs.
Kaveh Alizadeh MD, MSc, FACS

J. Roberto Ramirez Gavidia, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, I will say that Halo is already the best laser treatment that we have, but is you add BBL is truly enhancing you treatment significantly. I love to give Halos and BBL! I think that you have such a synergistic effect that is totally worth it.  I would wait 1-2 moths if you need another treatment. 
Hope that helps,  Dr. RG.

Sue Ellen Cox, MD · Answer

Hi 187555anon, thanks for your question. The Halo and BBL can absolutely be used together. We find this is a great way to efficiently treat multiple dermatologic issues in a single session. The Halo is ideal for treating fine lines and wrinkles, and stimulating collagen production. The BBL is ideal for treatment of red and brown discoloration. The treatment is highly customizable, so it can deliver improvement to a range of ages, skin types and goals. 
We recommend one to three initial Halo treatments, spaced about 4-6 weeks apart. Most patients also benefit from an initial series of BBL treatments, spaced about approximately 3-4 weeks apart. Is it possible to continue combining these treatments, or to separate them as needed. Generally, combining the treatments can produce more significant redness and swelling in recovery, so you may want to consider this when developing your treatment timeline. Consult with a board-certified aesthetic dermatologist to determine the best treatment plan for your skin and goals.

Burke Robinson, MD, FACS · Answer

I often combine these two treatment modalities in those patients that need it. Meaning they would benefit from the BBL for vascularity and pigment, but would get great results from the Halo for texture, pores, fine lines and pigment changes. The BBL treatment is performed first, immediately followed with the Halo treatment in the same session. I would typically perform the second Halo Pro treatment in 6-8 weeks. The time will depend on how the skin has healed, and the current condition of the skin. BBL may also be added to the second treatment, if it is indicated.

Hope you found this answer helpful. All the best!

Hope you found this answer helpful.  All the best!

Hannah Vargas, MD · Answer

Yes, the BBL and Halo are a wonderful combo treatment and can be performed at the same time.  6-8 weeks is the recommended waiting period between treatments.  Good luck and enjoy, our patients are very happy with their results after a Halo series!

Clark Schierle, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

You can absolutely use BBL and Halo combined in one session. The BBL is done first, followed by the Halo Pro. The BBL is my favorite when it comes to sundamge/pigment issues. The Halo is then helping with texture, tone, pore size, it gives your skin an overall glow and youthfulness.I typically have patients wait 6-8 weeks between Halo's.Every patient's needs are different. I would see an experienced Dr. or Nurse to customize your treatment.

Jeffrey G. Lind II, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for your question.  In my practice, I often combine these two treatment modalities in those patients that need it.  I, as well as my patients, have been thrilled with the results.  Typically, the BBL treatment is done first and then I follow this immediately with the Halo Pro treatment.  In my practice, in the patients that need it, I would typically perform the second Halo Pro treatment in 4-8 weeks.  The time will depend on how aggressive the first treatment was, how the skin has healed, and the current condition of the skin.   In my patients, BBL may also be added to the second treatment.   Best of luck to you!

Paul M. Parker, MD, FACS · Answer

BBL and Halo done together are a great combination. We typically wait one month between Halo treatments. Our patients have been very happy with the improved tone and texture of their skin, reduced pore size, more even pigmentation and improvement of fine lines, particularly around the eyes and mouth. Good luck!

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

The combination of the Halo and BBL Sciton laser is based on the experience and expertise of your laser specialist. I would wait 6 or more weeks until complete healing before the next treatment - and of course would follow the advice of your doctor.

Scott Greenberg, MD · Answer

We very often combine HALO with BBL.  We find that the overall of the combined treatment addresses disclorations (BBL addresses these) and textural irregularities and fine lines (HALO addresses these) to a greater degree than either treatment alone.  The combined treatment has no more downtime than a HALO treatment by itself.  I think you will find that this combination has much less downtime than a ProFractional resurfacing.  I recommend you discuss this in detail with your doctor.