Marmur Medical Blog

HALO vs. Fraxel: Which Laser Treatment Is Better for Me?

Smooth, clear, and brilliant skin is within your reach. With short recovery times and unmatched precision, HALO and Fraxel laser resurfacing treatments are safe, effective methods of minimizing many skin concerns, including uneven tone and texture, brown spots, lines and wrinkles, sun damage, and scars. However, with so many laser options available, choosing the best solution for you can feel overwhelming.

At Marmur Medical, our expert team has trained in advanced laser dermatological procedures. When you’re ready to get laser resurfacing to achieve your aesthetic goals, book your consultation with New York City’s best HALO and Fraxel provider.

What Are the Differences Between HALO and Fraxel Laser Treatments?

HALO is a hybrid fractional laser that combines non-ablative and ablative technology to create controlled injuries at precise depths. It stimulates collagen and elastin production while improving the skin’s appearance.

With customizable settings, we can address your distinct concerns for immediate and long-term results. The HALO laser bolsters the skin’s foundation by emitting heat into the skin’s deeper layers to thicken and lift it for a smoother, clearer, brighter appearance.

Fraxel DUAL uses safe, fractional laser technology that treats a fraction of the skin, leaving the surrounding skin unharmed. With Fraxel, there is minimal downtime, and skin heals quickly.

With two wavelengths, our experts can use Fraxel DUAL to penetrate the skin to repair damaged skin, remove extra pigmentation, and encourage collagen and elastin production to restore your radiant glow.

The most significant difference between HALO and Fraxel is that HALO contains both wavelengths in the same device, which allows the HALO system to deliver powerful and effective treatments with less discomfort and shorter downtime than Fraxel.

How Do HALO and Fraxel Treatments Compare in Terms of Downtime and Recovery?

With every aesthetic treatment, we aim for as little downtime as possible while still accomplishing your optimal results.

Depending on the extent of your HALO treatment, you may need one day to a full week of recovery. Since the HALO system is customizable, your provider can perform a longer series of four or five light treatments, delivering the same effects as a more powerful session requiring a longer downtime.

Fraxel requires at least four to five days of social downtime, during which your skin will itch and flake off. You can still perform your usual daily tasks; however, you may not look your best, so you may prefer to take time off from professional and personal obligations.

Which Skin Concerns Can HALO Laser Address?

HALO laser treatments result in brighter, fresher, smoother-looking skin, including:

  • Minimized pore size
  • Enhanced skin texture and tone
  • Fewer acne and surgical scars
  • Corrected sun damage/dyschromia
  • Reduced the appearance of pigmented lesions
  • Diminished wrinkles and fine lines

Is Fraxel the Right Choice for My Skin Type and Concerns?

Fraxel DUAL laser treatment targets skin imperfections to effectively reveal healthy, youthful skin:

  • Improved tone and texture
  • Smoother, younger-looking skin
  • Reduced wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes
  • Minimized acne and surgical scars
  • Less sun noticeable damage and unwanted pigmentation like brown spots, age spots, sunspots, and melasma

What Can I Expect During a HALO or Fraxel Treatment Session?

Before beginning your laser treatment, your provider will answer any final questions and ensure you are comfortable. Next, they will cleanse your skin and apply a topical numbing cream to reduce discomfort.

During your HALO or Fraxel treatment, your provider will carefully and precisely guide the handpiece over the targeted area. You may experience heat sensations.

You may feel like you have a sunburn after your appointment; however, this effect should diminish within a few hours.

Treatment time varies, but sessions generally take between 20 to 45 minutes.

How Many Sessions Will I Need With HALO vs. Fraxel for Optimal Results?

Depending on your skin, we typically recommend a series of sessions to help you achieve optimal results. Everyone responds differently to HALO and Fraxel procedures, so we’ll help you determine the ideal approach during your consultation.

Many patients experience dramatic improvements to their skin after one to two HALO laser treatments. We typically recommend scheduling sessions between four to eight weeks apart, depending on your concern and how your body reacts.

Patients may experience results after one to two Fraxel DUAL sessions for pigment concerns and three to five for issues like wrinkles or acne scarring. We may recommend scheduling your sessions four to six weeks apart depending on the skin condition we’re treating.

What Are the Side Effects and Risks of HALO and Fraxel Lasers?

We will work with you to minimize the risks of laser skin resurfacing and help you achieve your optimal outcome.

Following a HALO appointment, you can expect redness like a sunburn and minor swelling for a few hours to days and your skin may feel tight. However, most patients report only minimal discomfort.

You can also expect redness and swelling for the first few days after a Fraxel treatment. Your skin will begin flaking in three to five days. Typically, patients experience no pain afterward.

Other risks associated with laser treatments may include:

  • Infection
  • Recurrence of cold sores
  • Acne breakouts
  • Persistent redness
  • Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
  • Melasma flares

How Do HALO and Fraxel Results Compare in the Long Term?

HALO and Fraxel deliver enduring results. However, your longevity depends on your unique skin conditions and how well you care for yourself following treatment.

After your treatment, our experts will work with you to develop a skin care routine that will continue improving your skin’s health and enhancing your appearance.

Can You Combine HALO and Fraxel With Other Cosmetic Procedures?

Depending on your skin’s condition, our experts may recommend complementary procedures for your laser treatment to accomplish optimal results in less time.

Many treatments are compatible with both procedures, including:

Schedule Your Laser Treatment Consultation at Marmur Medical Today!

At Marmur Medical, our highly trained team is passionate about improving our patients’ skin. We provide the most innovative and effective treatments to help people achieve healthy, radiant complexions. We look forward to your scheduled consultation to determine if HALO or Fraxel laser treatments will deliver the results you deserve.

Contact Marmur Medical online or by calling (212) 996-6900 today to partner with one of New York’s best HALO and Fraxel laser treatment providers.