Introduction
Welcome to Omniya Clinic’s guide to your HALO treatment. Below, you will find comprehensive contraindications, pre-care and post-care information for your treatment. If you have any questions, please contact our reception team who will be happy to assist you.
Medical History
You will receive a medical history form by email ahead of your appointment. If you’re not able to complete it beforehand, we kindly ask that you arrive about 10 minutes early to fill it in at the clinic.
If there have been any changes to your health, or you’ve started any new medication since your last visit, please let us know before your appointment so we can make sure your treatment is still right for you.
Contraindications
HALO Fractional Laser may not be suitable if you:
- Are intolerant or allergic to anaesthetic-based topical agents.
- Have connective tissue disease.
- Are taking long-term systemic steroids (e.g. Prednisone, Dexamethasone).
- Have a medical condition affecting wound healing.
- Have a history of abnormal response to sunlight.
- Are using photosensitising medications.
- Have taken isotretinoin (Accutane) within the last 6-12 months.
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Are on anticoagulants or heavy aspirin therapy.
- Have an active infection or compromised immune system.
- Have a recent tan (sun or fake tan).
- Have a history of keloid scarring.
- Have a history of skin cancer, especially melanoma.
- Are Skin Type VI on the Fitzpatrick scale.
Pre Treatment Instructions
To prepare for your HALO treatment, please:
- Stop using prescribed retinoids (tretinoin) or prescription-strength actives such as Benzoyl Peroxide 2 weeks before.
- Avoid retinol, exfoliating acids and active skincare for 5-7 days before, depending on strength.
- Avoid waxing the treatment area for 7 days before.
- Allow at least 2 weeks since dermal filler or Botox injections.
- Inform us if you have a history of cold sores (an antiviral may be prescribed).
Post Treatment Instructions & Expectations
Immediate Response
- Redness: Normal, often intensifies over 2-3 days and may last up to 7 days.
- Swelling: Common, especially around the eyes. Peaks the morning after and resolves in 2-4 days. Cold compresses help.
- Warmth: Treated areas may feel hot for 12-24 hours.
- Pinpoint bleeding: May occur depending on treatment depth, usually subsides within hours.
Days 2-7
- MENDs (microscopic epidermal necrotic debris): Tiny dark spots and bronzing of the skin appear by day 2-3. This is part of healing. Do not pick.
- Texture: Skin may feel rough, dry, and sandpaper-like before flaking and peeling. This process can last 5-7 days for the face, and up to 2 weeks on the body.
- Rosy glow: Once peeling finishes, fresh pink skin is revealed, gradually returning to normal tone.
Care Guidelines
- Cleansing: Start the next morning. Use lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser (e.g. Cetaphil). Pat dry - do not rub or scrub.
- Moisturising: Apply generously, reapply often. Use Aquaphor, Elta MD, or Cicalfate for dryness or irritation.
- Sun Protection: Daily SPF 30+ is mandatory for at least 3 months. Avoid direct sun for 2 months. Wear hats and protective clothing.
- Makeup: May be used once peeling completes (usually 5-7 days).
- Showering: Avoid direct water pressure on the face for a few days.
- Exercise: Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, and sweating until the skin has healed.
Common Side Effects
- Swelling and redness (temporary).
- Itching or dryness.
- Flaking/peeling.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or lightening - usually resolves in 2-6 months.
- Rare: scarring, infection, allergic reactions.
When to Contact Us
If you have any concerns, have had a reaction or think you might have had a reaction, please contact us, especially if you experience:
- Excessive swelling.
- Signs of infection (pus, severe redness, increased warmth, fever >101.5°F/38.5°C).
- Severe pain or extreme itching.
Phone: 020 7584 4777
Email: [email protected] - please include photos if applicable.
Follow Up Appointments
If you would like to schedule a follow-up appointment or have any questions regarding future appointments, please contact us by:
- Phone: 020 7584 4777
- Email: [email protected]
- Online: Book an appointment online here
Survey:
Please click here to complete a short survey following your appointment today. The survey is completely anonymous and will take less than 2 minutes of your time.
Review:
We would love your feedback. Please leave us a review of your experience here.
We look forward to supporting you throughout your treatment journey and helping you achieve excellent results.
