SCITON^® HALO^™

CHOOSE THE BEST LASER TREATMENT FOR YOUR SKIN AND GOALS IN PORTLAND, OR

Lasers have long been an either/or option: Either you chose an ablative treatment that removed skin and required down time for dramatic results or chose a non-ablative treatment that worked below the surface for a more subtle change. With Sciton^® Halo^™ at Portland's Waldorf Center, you can have the best of both non-surgical treatments, tailoring the results to your specific cosmetic goals and desired down time.

Sciton^® Halo^™ is what is known as a hybrid fractional laser, using light energy to address a range of cosmetic issues. Patients can treat sun and environmental damage, as well as wrinkles, laxity, and other conditions that develop as skin ages naturally. Some improvements are noticeable right away, but the best results develop over time.

WHAT CAN SCITON^® HALO^™ TREAT?

A Sciton^® Halo^™ session is ideal for addressing such common skin complaints as fine lines and wrinkles, pigmented lesions, dyschromia (patches that are lighter or darker than the surrounding skin), uneven texture, and large pores. It can also make scars—including acne scars—less noticeable, as well as target actinic keratoses, which are typically benign but may develop into skin cancer.

The Sciton^® Halo^™ device is suitable for any skin type, and it can be safely used on the face, neck, chest, arms and legs, and hands.

HOW DOES SCITON^® HALO^™ WORK?

Sciton^® Halo makes use of lasers that emit two different wavelengths for unique results. The result is similar to the effects of a full ablative treatment, but the down time required for healing is more in line with a non-ablative session.

The non-ablative wavelength passes through the surface of skin to target the dermis below. There, it encourages skin cells to begin making collagen, as well as coagulates the existing collagen and begins a cell-turnover process that moves regenerated cells up to the surface for a smoother, more youthful look.

The ablative wavelength creates tiny wounds in the surface layer of the skin by vaporizing small amounts of tissue. These tiny areas in the epidermis prompt the body to focus on healing the area, which synergizes with the non-ablative effects for faster cell turnover and improved results. The ultimate result is a noticeably rejuvenated look with minimal down time—not possible with ablative or non-ablative lasers alone.

That said, patients can also choose a solely ablative or non-ablative treatment if they want. The idea behind Sciton^® Halo is that the different wavelengths can be combined in a way that customizes the session for the individual. Someone with a special event in just a few days may prefer a treatment with a more rapid healing time, while someone planning farther out may be willing to have a more intense treatment—or several treatments spread out over time.

WHAT IS A SCITON^® HALO^™ SESSION LIKE?

First, every patient interested in Sciton^® Halo^™ will have a consultation to establish cosmetic goals and determine whether the hybrid fractional laser is the best option.

Because the laser energy targets pigmented cells, patients should avoid tanning or any exposure to ultraviolet radiation that might darken their skin in general or specific areas in the two weeks prior to their appointment.

The laser energy does generate heat, and the device can cause a "snapping" sensation in the skin when the light comes in contact with the surface. A topical numbing cream applied prior to the treatment session helps improve comfort, and the device itself uses air to cool the skin as it moves along.

The duration of the Sciton^® Halo^™ session depends where on the body conditions are being addressed and how many areas are being treated.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER A SCITON^® HALO^™ SESSION?

Sciton^® Halo^™ sessions generally leave the skin looking and feeling similar to a sunburn. Moisturizers can help during this time. More intense fractional hybrid laser treatments can cause skin in the treated area to flake and peel within a couple days of the session.

In general, patients can begin wearing makeup within 24 hours of their appointment and return to work, socializing, and other routine activities within a couple of days.

As the treated area begins to heal, newer skin will be revealed, and pigmented areas will fade. Changes below the surface will also improve texture and tone as collagen levels build in the skin. The most noticeable improvements can take weeks to become apparent.

Multiple treatment sessions may be necessary in order to achieve the desired results.

The effects of aging and sun damage will continue to progress, as well, so the best way to maintain the rejuvenated results is to wear adequate sun protection every time you go outdoors, stay hydrated, get plenty of sleep, eat well, and generally live a healthy lifestyle.

OTHER LASER TREATMENTS AT THE WALDORF CENTER

Light energy is effective for more than just improving skin. It can also be used in laser hair removal and laser vein treatments. The Waldorf Center also uses intense puled light (IPL) to reduce redness and spots. Discover the laser treatment that's best for your unique needs!