HALO® LASER TREATMENT

Discover the transformative power of HALO hybrid fractional laser treatment at Wink Medical Aesthetics. Serving patients throughout Lakeway, Austin, and Bee Cave, our medical team combines advanced laser technology with personalized care to help you achieve radiant, youthful skin. Whether you’re dealing with sun damage, fine lines, acne scars, or uneven texture, HALO offers customizable results with minimal downtime and maximum comfort.

At Wink Medical Aesthetics, we believe that your comfort is just as important as your results. Because HALO is a medical laser treatment, we’re able to prescribe medications when clinically appropriate to help ensure a smooth and comfortable experience. We don’t simply perform your laser and send you home, we thoughtfully prepare you for treatment and support you through recovery. From preventative measures to personalized aftercare guidance, every step is designed with your comfort and safety in mind.

Contact Us

What Is HALO Laser?

HALO is the world’s first and only hybrid fractional laser, a revolutionary technology that combines both ablative and non-ablative wavelengths in a single treatment. This unique approach delivers simultaneous energy to the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deeper layer) of your skin, triggering your body’s natural healing response and stimulating collagen production.

The hybrid technology works by delivering two complementary wavelengths, 1470 nm for coagulation and 2940 nm for ablation, to the same microscopic treatment zone. This dual-action approach provides dramatic results comparable to traditional ablative lasers while maintaining the minimal downtime associated with non-ablative treatments. The fractional delivery pattern, which treats only a portion of the skin at a time, allows surrounding untreated skin to accelerate healing.

HALO is safe for all skin types and can be customized to address your specific concerns. Whether you prefer a more aggressive single treatment or a series of gentler sessions, your treatment plan will be tailored to your goals and skin condition.

How Does HALO Laser Work?

Understanding the science behind HALO helps explain why it delivers such impressive results. The treatment works on two levels simultaneously:

How Does HALO Laser Work?

Understanding the science behind HALO helps explain why it delivers such impressive results. The treatment works on two levels simultaneously:

Ablative Action (Surface Resurfacing)

The ablative wavelength removes the outermost layer of damaged skin in a precise grid pattern. This controlled removal eliminates sun-damaged cells, age spots, and surface irregularities while leaving surrounding tissue intact to support faster healing.

Non-Ablative Action (Deep Rejuvenation)

The non-ablative wavelength penetrates deeper into the dermis, heating the underlying tissue without damaging the surface. This thermal energy stimulates fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin, triggering a cascade of rejuvenation that continues for months after treatment.

The combination of these two actions creates what dermatologists call the “HALO effect,” a visible glow and dramatic improvement in skin quality that patients notice within days and continues to improve over weeks and months.

What Does HALO Laser Treat?

HALO is remarkably versatile and can address a wide range of skin concerns on the face, neck, chest, arms, hands, and legs. Common conditions treated include:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Sun damage and age spots
  • Pigmented lesions and discoloration
  • Uneven skin texture and roughness
  • Enlarged pores
  • Acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
  • Melasma and other forms of hyperpigmentation
  • Dull, tired-looking skin
  • Loss of skin elasticity and firmness
  • Rosacea-related redness (in select cases)

Because HALO is customizable, your provider can adjust the intensity and coverage to target your specific concerns while respecting your skin’s unique characteristics.

The HALO Treatment Experience at Wink

We understand that undergoing a laser treatment can feel intimidating. That’s why we’ve designed our process to prioritize your comfort and peace of mind at every stage.

HALO Treatment

Pre-Treatment Preparation

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where we assess your skin, discuss your goals, and review your medical history. We’ll explain exactly what to expect and answer all your questions. If you have a history of cold sores or other concerns, we’ll discuss preventative measures.

As part of your HALO treatment at Wink, Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar is included with your treatment package. You will begin using it 1–2 weeks prior to your procedure to help prepare the skin. Skin Nectar is specifically formulated to support tissue health, optimize the skin’s response to laser treatments, and promote improved healing and results.

We may also recommend avoiding certain products such as retinoids, exfoliating acids, and other active ingredients for several days prior to treatment. You will receive detailed pre-treatment instructions to ensure your skin is properly prepared and positioned for the best possible outcome.

During Your Treatment

On treatment day, we apply a topical anesthetic to your skin approximately 60 minutes before the procedure begins. This ensures you’re comfortable throughout the process. The HALO handpiece is then gently passed over your skin, delivering the laser energy in a controlled manner. Most patients describe the sensation as a warm prickling feeling rather than pain. The actual treatment typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the area being treated.

Comfort and Medication Support

Because HALO is a medical laser treatment, our medical director, Gregg Wood, M.D., reviews your medical history and may prescribe medications when clinically appropriate to support your comfort and healing. Prescription medications are provided only when medically indicated and after careful review. Not all patients require medication. This personalized approach sets Wink apart from typical med spas, ensuring you receive medical-grade care with physician oversight.

Immediate Aftercare

After treatment, we apply cooling treatments and soothing products to calm your skin. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions and can typically return to your normal activities immediately, though we recommend taking the rest of the day to rest if possible.

To support optimal healing and results, Wink strongly encourages the use of specific post-procedure skincare following HALO treatment. Patients will continue using Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar, which is provided as part of your HALO treatment package. Skin Nectar helps support tissue recovery, calm inflammation, and optimize the skin’s healing response following laser procedures.

Additional gentle, medical-grade skincare products are highly encouraged to protect the skin barrier and support proper healing during the recovery period. Patients who choose not to follow recommended post-treatment skincare may be asked to sign a waiver acknowledging that declining these products may increase the risk of delayed healing, irritation, or suboptimal results.

Strict sun protection is essential after HALO treatment. Patients must avoid direct sun exposure and use a broad-spectrum SPF daily, as untreated sun exposure during the healing phase may increase the risk of pigmentation changes.

Recovery

Recovery and Downtime

One of HALO’s greatest advantages is its minimal downtime compared to traditional ablative laser treatments. However, it’s important to understand what to expect during your recovery.

Days 1-2: Initial Response

Your skin will appear red and may feel warm, similar to a sunburn. Swelling is normal for the first 24-72 hours. You can apply makeup after 24 hours if desired, though many patients prefer to let their skin breathe.

Days 3-7: The Healing Phase

Around day 3, you may notice a sandpaper-like texture as your skin begins to naturally shed damaged cells. This is a sign that the treatment is working. Your skin will gradually peel and slough off, revealing fresh, new skin underneath. This phase typically lasts 5 to 7 days. Continue with gentle cleansing and moisturizing, and avoid picking or scrubbing your skin.

Week 2 and Beyond: Progressive Improvement

By the end of the first week, most of the visible peeling will have resolved, though your skin may remain slightly pink. This pinkness gradually fades over the following weeks. Results continue to improve as collagen production increases, with optimal results typically visible at 2 to 3 weeks post-treatment. 

Long-Term Results

According to research in the field of laser dermatology, results from HALO treatment can last up to 2 years with proper skincare and sun protection. Many patients choose to schedule maintenance treatments annually to sustain their results.

Benefits of HALO Laser Treatment

Benefits of HALO Laser Treatment

Natural-Looking Results

HALO delivers dramatic improvements without the overdone appearance sometimes associated with other treatments. Your skin looks refreshed and rejuvenated, not dramatically altered.

Customizable Treatment

Your provider can adjust the laser settings to match your skin type, concerns, and desired downtime. You’re not locked into a one-size-fits-all approach.

Minimal Downtime

Unlike traditional ablative lasers that require weeks of recovery, HALO allows you to return to your normal routine within days. This makes it ideal for busy professionals and active individuals.

Long-Lasting Results

Because HALO stimulates your body’s own collagen production, results improve over time and can last up to 2 years. This is a true rejuvenation, not just a temporary fix.

Safe for All Skin Types

HALO can be safely used on all skin types, including darker skin tones, when properly calibrated by an experienced provider.

Comprehensive Skin Improvement

Rather than addressing a single concern, HALO improves overall skin quality, tone, texture, and radiance. Patients often report that their skin looks healthier and more vibrant overall.

Am I a Good Candidate for HALO Laser?

HALO is suitable for most people who want to improve their skin’s appearance and are in good overall health. Ideal candidates include those who:

  • Want to address fine lines, wrinkles, or sun damage
  • Have acne scars or other textural concerns
  • Desire a non-surgical skin rejuvenation option
  • Are willing to follow pre and post-treatment instructions
  • Have realistic expectations about results
  • Are not pregnant or nursing
  • Don’t have active infections or open wounds in the treatment area

During your consultation, we’ll assess whether HALO is right for you and discuss any concerns or contraindications. If HALO isn’t the best fit, we may recommend alternative treatments or a combination approach.

Why Choose Wink Medical Aesthetics for HALO Laser

At Wink Medical Aesthetics, we’ve been serving patients throughout Lakeway, Austin, and Bee Cave since 2010 with a commitment to combining advanced technology with genuine care. Here’s what sets us apart:

Personalized Pre and Post Care

We don’t simply perform your laser and send you home. We thoughtfully prepare you for treatment with detailed pre-treatment guidance and support you through recovery with personalized aftercare instructions. When clinically appropriate, we may prescribe medications to enhance your comfort and healing. Prescription medications are provided only when medically indicated and after careful review of your medical history. Not all patients require medication. This personalized approach reflects our commitment to patient-centered care and distinguishes Wink from typical med spas.

Spa-Like Comfort with Medical-Grade Safety

Your comfort is just as important to us as your results. Our serene, boutique environment provides the pampering of a day spa combined with the expertise and safety standards of a medical facility. You’ll feel relaxed and cared for throughout your experience, knowing you’re receiving treatment in a medically supervised setting.

Experienced Team

Our team has extensive experience with HALO and other advanced aesthetic treatments. We understand the nuances of laser treatment and how to customize each session for optimal results.

Comprehensive Approach

We view your skin health holistically. If combination treatments would enhance your results, we’ll discuss options like pairing HALO with other laser treatments or complementary procedures.

Transparent Communication

We believe in honest, upfront communication about what to expect, realistic timelines for results, and any potential risks or side effects. You’ll never feel pressured or misled.

Results

HALO Laser Results
& Timeline

Results from HALO treatment are progressive and continue to improve over time. Here’s what you can typically expect:

Immediate (Days 1-2)

Your skin will appear red and may feel warm. This is normal and indicates the treatment is working.

Short-Term (Days 3-7)

Visible peeling begins as damaged skin naturally sheds. Results start to become apparent as fresh skin emerges.

Beautiful young woman with clean perfect skin. Portrait of beauty model with natural nude make up and touching her face. Spa, skincare and wellness. Close up

Medium-Term (Weeks 2-4)

Peeling resolves, redness fades, and you’ll notice significant improvements in skin texture, tone, and clarity. Fine lines appear softer, and sun spots begin to fade.

Long-Term (Weeks 4-12)

Collagen production continues, and results progressively improve. Wrinkles continue to soften, skin texture becomes smoother, and overall radiance increases. Optimal results are typically visible at 8 to 12 weeks.

Maintenance

Results can last up to 2 years with proper skincare and sun protection. Many patients choose annual maintenance treatments to sustain their results and continue the rejuvenation process.

Possible Side Effects and Risks

While HALO is generally safe, it's important to understand potential side effects. Most are temporary and resolve within days to weeks:

Possible Side Effects and Risks

While HALO is generally safe, it's important to understand potential side effects. Most are temporary and resolve within days to weeks:

Common Side Effects

  • Redness and warmth (similar to sunburn)
  • Mild swelling
  • Sandpaper-like texture during peeling phase
  • Temporary dryness
  • Mild discomfort during treatment

Rare Side Effects

  • Temporary hyperpigmentation (darkening) or hypopigmentation (lightening)
  • Scarring (extremely rare when performed by experienced providers)
  • Infection (rare with proper aftercare)
  • Cold sore reactivation (in patients with herpes history)

Your provider will discuss these risks during your consultation and provide strategies to minimize them. Following pre and post-treatment instructions significantly reduces the risk of complications.

Pre-Treatment Instructions

To ensure the best possible results and minimize complications, please follow these guidelines:

  • Avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least 2 weeks before treatment
  • Discontinue retinoids, vitamin C serums, and acids 3 to 5 days before treatment
  • Avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin) for 1 week before treatment, as they can increase bleeding and bruising
  • If you have a history of cold sores, inform your provider so we can prescribe preventative medication
  • Avoid waxing, plucking, or other hair removal in the treatment area for 1 week before treatment
  • Stay well-hydrated and maintain good overall health
  • Arrive with clean skin, free of makeup and skincare products
Patient Testimonials and Results

Patient Testimonials and Results

“I see Jane Weafer at Wink Medical Aesthetics. I love/trust Jane’s knowledge and skill using BBL and Halo laser. She is excellent at after care and accommodating to my crazy schedule. The results are complimented by friends and strangers alike. I have referred Jane repeatedly. I have been her client for 3 years. At 71 years old it is the least invasive approach I can take to achieve younger looking skin and get a natural looking result.”
– T.D.
Google Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I had an amazing experience at Wink. Have been going to Wink for 6 years for Botox and have always been happy with those results. I have just tried the Halo laser treatment. Jane was wonderful. Received all the information about the treatment beforehand and also during it. Text me the next morning to ask how I was doing. Told me to call her at anytime if I had a concern. She really went over and above as far as I’m concerned! Would never go anywhere else for procedures involving my face!”
– A.K
Google Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

FAQs

Where can I find HALO laser treatment near me?

Wink Medical Aesthetics offers HALO laser treatment at our location in Lakeway, where we serve patients from Austin, Bee Cave, and nearby communities. We serve patients throughout the greater Austin area who are seeking medical-grade laser treatment with physician oversight and personalized care. Unlike typical med spas, our practice is led by a medical director who reviews all treatment plans and may prescribe medications when clinically appropriate to support your comfort and healing. We combine advanced technology with genuine care, ensuring you receive results-driven treatment in a spa-like environment. Schedule your consultation today to see how HALO can transform your skin.

Can I combine HALO laser with other treatments?

Absolutely. HALO pairs beautifully with complementary treatments to enhance results. Many patients combine HALO with:

  • BBL HERO™ for enhanced pigmentation correction and skin tone evening
  • MOXI laser for maintenance and ongoing skin rejuvenation
  • Microneedling for additional collagen stimulation
  • Chemical peels for enhanced exfoliation and texture improvement
  • Injectables (BOTOX®, fillers) for comprehensive facial rejuvenation

Your provider will discuss combination options during your consultation based on your specific goals and skin condition. Combining treatments can accelerate results and address multiple concerns simultaneously.

How long do HALO results last?

Results from HALO treatment can last up to 2 years with proper skincare and sun protection. However, because skin continues to age, many patients choose to schedule maintenance treatments annually to sustain their results and continue the rejuvenation process. Think of HALO as an investment in your skin’s long-term health and appearance.

Is HALO safe for all skin types?

Yes, HALO can be safely used on all skin types, including darker skin tones. The key is proper calibration and technique by an experienced provider. During your consultation, we’ll assess your specific skin type and customize the treatment accordingly to minimize risks and maximize results.

What's the difference between HALO and other laser treatments?

HALO is unique because it’s the only hybrid fractional laser that combines ablative and non-ablative wavelengths simultaneously. This allows it to deliver dramatic results comparable to traditional ablative lasers while maintaining the minimal downtime of non-ablative treatments. Other fractional lasers typically use only one wavelength, requiring either more aggressive treatment with longer recovery or gentler treatment with less dramatic results. HALO gives you the best of both worlds.

Can I wear makeup after HALO treatment?

You can apply makeup after 24 hours if desired. However, many patients prefer to let their skin breathe during the initial healing phase. If you do wear makeup, use gentle, non-irritating products and avoid heavy coverage that might trap heat in your skin.

Contact Us

Ready to discover the transformative power of HALO laser treatment? Schedule your consultation at Wink Medical Aesthetics today. Our team is ready to help you achieve the radiant, youthful skin you deserve.

Schedule an Appointment

Book Appointment