From Dull to Dazzling: Why This Treatment Is the Future of Skin Resurfacing

HALO is a widely beloved hybrid laser that combines ablative and non-ablative wavelengths to achieve an impressive reduction in the appearance of sun spots, fine lines, wrinkles and dullness, with minimal downtime. Sciton, the creators of HALO, has leveled up its offerings with HALO TRIBRID.

HALO TRIBRID 101

Think of HALO TRIBRID as the next evolution of resurfacing—three wavelengths, 2940 nm, 1470 nm, and 1927 nm, working together in a single, synergistic pass. “Each wavelength is like its own  paintbrush, uniquely efficient at targeting specific concerns,” explains Spring Hill, TN, dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon Chris Robb, MD. “What’s remarkable is that we can treat any problem a patient has by blending our three wavelengths into creative combinations that have never been combined before in one treatment. I call this intelligent layering.”

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The Inspiration Behind HALO TRIBRID

“Over time, many cosmetic dermatologists, myself included, found that combining multi-pass, multi-depth techniques across devices produced the most impressive results for patients,” says Plymouth Meeting, PA dermatologist Thomas Griffin, Jr., MD. In his own practice, it became common to pair HALO and MOXI, two separate resurfacing lasers, in the same session to achieve the best results. “This raised an important question: Is it possible to streamline the process and deliver multiple wavelengths simultaneously to achieve the same or better results, with a single device?” Enter HALO TRIBRID, designed to do exactly that.

Dr. Griffin says the new technology solves many challenges. “From a practice perspective, it is a single laser platform with unrivaled optionality. The three wavelengths, 2940, 1927 and 1470, can be used independently or in any combination, across multiple depths and densities. This creates seven separate treatments, which can each be fine-tuned, giving providers unlimited choices to customize a treatment to the unique needs of every patient,” he explains. He adds that it also simplifies workflow, especially in busy practices, by freeing up other lasers for use in other rooms. “Lastly, it shortens the overall treatment time, making procedures much quicker and more comfortable for the patient.”

What Skin Concerns Does HALO TRIBRID Address?

“HALO  TRIBRID can tackle nearly every major skin concern we see. From pigmentation and sun damage to fine lines, uneven texture and acne scarring, this device is designed to dramatically improve the overall quality of the skin,” says Dr. Griffin. “With it, we can reverse years of accumulated damage and visible signs of aging.” He notes that skilled providers will know how to adjust the depth and density to precisely tailor the treatment to the patient’s specific skin concerns.

The Ideal Candidate for HALO TRIBRID

Who is the ideal candidate for HALO TRIBRID? “Literally everyone is a candidate for HALO TRIBRID,” says Dr. Griffin. “It doesn’t matter your heritage, your lifestyle or your skin type. We can treat unwanted and stubborn pigment gently or add intensity to treat deep lines around the mouth or eyes.”

The customizable nature of HALO TRIBRID is part of what makes it so special, he adds. “Whether you are younger or older, have lighter or darker skin, prefer minimal downtime or are open to more significant downtime, an expert provider can tailor the treatment to fit each person’s needs and goals.” 

What Does the Treatment Feel Like During and After?

“Comfort with any laser procedure varies from patient to patient, depending on their tolerance and the intensity of the treatment being performed,” notes Dr. Griffin. A topical numbing cream is applied beforehand to help minimize discomfort. During the treatment,  the laser specialist glides the handpiece over the skin in a few passes. Dr. Robb says it feels like the traditional HALO laser, just quicker. 

“Overall, the treatment is very manageable. Some areas, like the midface, can be a bit spicier than others,” he adds. Following the treatment, the skin typically feels warm, almost like a sunburn, for a couple of hours. Dr. Griffin recommends applying ice packs during this period to help soothe the skin. Beyond that, “there should be minimal to no physical discomfort, just some redness and mild swelling.”

The Recovery

Downtime varies depending on what’s being treated and the intensity of the wavelengths used. “If we choose a gentle treatment, you might be pink for half a day. If we go deeper  to target lines, you might be red for up to five days, says Dr. Robb. While there are countless variables, he notes, that the benefit of HALO TRIBRID is that the provider “can match your treatment to your needs more exactly than any other treatment has ever been able to do since lasers were first invented.”

Patients typically experience swelling for three to four days, with the peak around day two, says Dr. Griffin. After that, the skin develops a sandpaper-like texture that lasts for about a week, and naturally sheds as you gently wash your face.” For immediate aftercare, Dr Griffin recommends a gentle face wash and moisturizing cream. After 72 hours, he advises switching to a mineral sunscreen during the day.

The Results

“Results vary from person to person in every aesthetic procedure. Factors like skin type, the specific settings used, and each individual’s healing response all play a role in the overall healing process and results,” says Dr. Griffin. “That said, patients can expect to have a more even skin tone, reduced pore size, improvements in fine lines and wrinkles and a more radiant, glowing appearance to their skin.”

Pigmentation improvements tend to be visible after the first week, while texture changes take a few weeks to months to be seen, says Dr. Griffin. “By around three months, patients will typically see the full impact of their treatment with smoother, firmer, more luminous skin.”

 “Because collagen is always remodeling and progressively breaking down as part of the natural aging process, maintaining textural improvements requires some degree of continued maintenance. The clearance of many pigmentation concerns, like sun spots, can be permanent depending on how patients protect and maintain their skin after treatment,” explains Dr. Griffin. “Consistent use of quality skin-care products tailored to the individual’s needs, paired with daily sunscreen, is the key to preserving results. For long-term results and continued improvement, I generally recommend a HALO TRIBRID laser treatment tailored to the needs and concerns of each patient at least twice a year.”