Halo Laser: 'Mends' still present 7 days after treatment. (Photos)

Question

I received a BBL/Halo treatment on Friday of last week (exactly 7 days ago). I experienced the normal darkening of pigment and the sloughing off process by day 3-4. However, as the new pink skin has emerged it now has a finer sandpaper texture as well but lacks the dark pigment (these ones are similar to the mends that I experienced within the first few days of treatment) When will these go away? Am I having some sort of an allergic reaction? I contacted the aesthetician and she has not responded to me.

Burke Robinson, MD, FACS · Answer

Although the MENDS are usually gone 7 days after treatment, the “sand paper” texture can persist up to 10 days. The pink skin that is seen on your skin could potentially be caused from a reaction to a topical product being used at this point in the healing process. I would suggest trying to call the office again.  Possibly you will be able to speak with someone at this time.  If you have been using an occlusive dressing (Aquaphor) that could be causing the reaction. Lanolin is in the product and that can happen. I have good luck with AVENE Products (Cicalfacte) However Cerave Lotion or Cetaphil would be alternatives.  Sunscreen is very important Elta MD Physical is a favorite of mine. I hope you find my answer helpful. Best of luck.

Susan Buenaventura, MD, FACS · Answer

Mends can continue to be present 7 days out, depending on how much pigment you had initially and how deep your HALO was.  If skin is itchy, red and bumpy, be sure you aren't allergic to something in your skin care regimen.  Speak with your doctor and simplify as much as possible.  Patients are sometimes allergic to the lanolin in aquaphor if you are using that.  Cetaphil is a nice gentle cleanser.

Rebecca Gelber, MD · Answer

Although it's almost impossible to say without seeing you, it looks a bit more like you may be reacting to an ingredient in your skincare. Go to cetaphil cleanser and lotion for now and be careful with your skincare.Now that it's Monday, your aesthetician will be more likely to respond to you. Make sure to reach out to the office so they can see and manage you until you are fully healed.

Thomas D. Griffin Jr., MD · Answer

This appears to be completely normal for 7 days after laser resurfacing. Keep moisturizing and treating your skin gently as recommended by your provider. The pinkness will resolve and your skin should return to an improved texture shortly.

Halo Laser: 'Mends' still present 7 days after treatment. (Photos)

Answers (4)