Acne may eventually clear, but the scars it leaves behind can linger for years. Fortunately, advances in laser resurfacing have made it possible to improve the appearance of acne scars without surgical procedures.
We hear this question a lot: Is HALO® laser treatment good for acne scars?
Yes, HALO® laser can effectively treat certain types of acne scars. HALO® is a hybrid fractional laser that combines ablative and non-ablative wavelengths to resurface the skin, stimulate collagen production, and improve uneven texture. It may be particularly helpful for certain rolling and boxcar acne scars, as well as acne-related discoloration, enlarged pores, and overall uneven skin texture.
However, the best treatment depends on the type and depth of your scars, your skin type, and your individual goals.
At Premier Skin Clinic in Fort Collins, Colorado, we use advanced laser and skin-rejuvenation treatments to create individualized treatment plans instead of a one-size-fits-all approach.
What Is HALO® Laser?
HALO® is a hybrid fractional laser treatment designed to improve both the skin’s surface and deeper layers.
Unlike traditional laser resurfacing that treats an entire area of skin at once, HALO® delivers microscopic columns of laser energy while leaving surrounding tissue untreated. This fractional approach helps stimulate the skin’s natural healing response and collagen remodeling.
HALO® combines ablative and non-ablative laser wavelengths, allowing treatment to address multiple skin layers in the same procedure.
How does HALO® laser help with acne scars?
HALO® helps acne scars primarily by stimulating collagen remodeling and resurfacing uneven skin.
Acne can damage collagen in the skin, leaving behind depressions and irregular texture. HALO® creates controlled microscopic treatment zones that trigger the body’s wound-healing response. As new collagen develops, the skin can become smoother, and the transition between scarred and unscarred skin can become less noticeable.
HALO® may improve:
- Depressed acne scars
- Uneven skin texture
- Rolling scars
- Certain boxcar scars
- Enlarged pores
- Post-acne discoloration
- Fine lines and sun damage that occur alongside acne scarring
Results develop gradually because collagen remodeling continues after the treatment itself.
What types of acne scars respond best to HALO®?
“Rolling” Acne Scars
Rolling scars are broad, shallow depressions that create a wavy or uneven appearance.
HALO® may improve the overall appearance of rolling scars by stimulating collagen and smoothing the surrounding skin.
However, some severe rolling scars are caused by fibrous bands that tether the skin underneath. In those cases, a minor procedure such as subcision may be performed by a dermatologist as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
“Boxcar” Acne Scars
Boxcar scars are depressions with relatively defined edges.
HALO® may help improve the appearance of some superficial or moderately deep boxcar scars by resurfacing the skin and stimulating new collagen.
Deeper boxcar scars may require additional or alternative treatments.
“Ice Pick” Acne Scars
Ice pick scars are narrow, deep scars that extend farther into the skin.
Because they are particularly deep, ice pick scars can be challenging to treat with laser resurfacing alone. Depending on the scar, a dermatologist may recommend treatments such as TCA CROSS or punch techniques.
This is why an acne-scar consultation with Premier Skin Clinic is crucial before investing in a procedure.
Can HALO® remove acne scars completely?
No, HALO® cannot guarantee complete removal of acne scars.
The goal of acne-scar treatment is generally to make scars significantly less noticeable by improving their depth, texture, edges, and surrounding skin.
The amount of improvement varies from person to person and depends on factors such as:
- Scar type
- Scar depth
- Skin type
- Age of the scars
- Number of treatments
- Laser treatment settings
- Individual healing response
- Whether multiple treatments are combined
Fractional laser resurfacing has been shown to improve many types of atrophic acne scars, although outcomes vary among patients and studies.
Can HALO® treat acne scars and other concerns at the same time?
Yes! One reason HALO® is so popular for skin resurfacing in our office is that it can address several concerns in the same treatment.
In addition to acne scars, HALO® improves the appearance of:
- Uneven skin texture
- Enlarged pores
- Fine lines
- Sun damage
- Uneven pigmentation
- Dull-looking skin
- Superficial scars
For someone who has acne scars along with sun damage or signs of skin aging, HALO® provides broader skin rejuvenation than treatments focused exclusively on acne scars.
How many HALO® treatments do I need for acne scars?
The number of HALO® treatments needed depends on the severity and type of acne scarring and the patient’s goals. We pride ourselves on a customized approach, so we offer complimentary in-office consultations before you book your procedure(s).
Some people may notice improvement after one treatment, while others may benefit from a series of treatments.
More severe scarring generally requires a more comprehensive treatment plan, and the most significant improvement may require combining HALO® with another acne-scar procedure, either in our office or in a medical facility.
How long does it take to see results with HALO®?
Some improvement is visible as your skin heals, but in general, HALO® results develop gradually over time.
Immediate resurfacing effects can include smoother-looking skin once the initial redness and swelling subside. Collagen remodeling continues afterward, so acne scars can keep improving for weeks to months after treatment.
What is HALO® recovery like?
Because HALO® is a fractional laser treatment, recovery is generally shorter than with more aggressive full-field ablative resurfacing, although downtime varies based on treatment intensity.
Immediately after treatment, skin may feel warm and appear red, similar to a sunburn. Swelling and sensitivity are not uncommon. As the skin heals, the treated areas may develop a temporary rough or bronzed appearance before the outer layer naturally sheds.
Your Premier Skin Clinic provider will give you specific instructions for skincare, sun protection, and post-treatment care.
Following those instructions is essential after laser resurfacing because treated skin can be more sensitive to sunlight and pigmentation changes.
Can I get HALO® if I still have active acne?
It depends. If you have frequent or severe active breakouts, your provider may recommend controlling the acne first. This helps reduce the risk of developing additional scars while you are treating existing ones.
It is important to note that HALO® will not treat your active acne.
Once active acne is under control, your provider can evaluate the remaining concerns and determine whether HALO®, another procedure, or a combination treatment is appropriate.
HALO® acne scar treatment in Fort Collins, Colorado
If you’re considering HALO® laser for acne scars, Premier Skin Clinic can help you understand your options.
Our approach begins with YOUR skin, not with a predetermined procedure. During a consultation, we can evaluate your acne scars, discuss your goals, and determine whether HALO® is an appropriate treatment for your skin, either alone or as part of a comprehensive skin care plan.
For many patients, HALO® can be an effective way to improve acne scars while simultaneously addressing texture, pores, pigmentation, and other signs of skin aging.
Ready to address your acne scars? Schedule a consultation with Premier Skin Clinic in Fort Collins, Colorado, and discover what personalized HALO® laser treatment can do for you. Serving Fort Collins, Windsor, Loveland, Timnath, Wellington, Cheyenne, and beyond.
📞 Call us at (970) 221-1285
🌐 Schedule online at https://premierskinclinic.com/
📍 Visit us: 1603 Oakridge Drive #200, Fort Collins, CO 80525
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HALO® laser good for acne scars?
Yes. HALO® can improve the appearance of certain acne scars by resurfacing the skin and stimulating collagen remodeling. It may be particularly useful for some rolling and boxcar scars, although deeper scars may require additional treatments.
How effective is HALO® for acne scars?
The effectiveness of HALO® varies depending on the type and severity of acne scarring. Fractional laser resurfacing has demonstrated improvement in many types of atrophic acne scars, but complete removal of scars should not be expected.
How many HALO® treatments do you need for acne scars?
The number of treatments varies by patient. Some people may see improvement after one treatment, while others may benefit from a series or a combination of treatments.
Is HALO® better than microneedling for acne scars?
Neither treatment is universally better. HALO® uses fractional laser energy to resurface the skin and stimulate collagen, while microneedling uses controlled micro-injuries to stimulate collagen. The appropriate treatment depends on the patient’s scar type, skin characteristics, goals, and desired downtime.
Can HALO® treat deep acne scars?
HALO® can improve some depressed acne scars, but very deep or structurally tethered scars may require additional or alternative treatments. An evaluation can determine which approach is appropriate.
Does HALO® completely remove acne scars?
No. HALO® can significantly improve the appearance of some acne scars, but it does not guarantee complete removal. Results can also be affected by future acne breakouts, aging, sun exposure, and other factors.
How long do HALO® acne-scar results last?
The collagen remodeling stimulated by HALO® can produce long-lasting improvement. However, your skin continues to age naturally, and new acne or sun damage can affect your skin’s appearance over time.
Does HALO® hurt?
HALO® treatment can cause heat, warmth, or a prickling sensation during treatment. A topical anesthetic and other comfort measures may be used to make the procedure more comfortable. Your provider will discuss what to expect before treatment.
How much downtime does HALO® have?
Downtime varies according to treatment intensity and individual healing. Redness, swelling, warmth, sensitivity, and temporary skin roughness can occur after treatment. Your provider will explain the expected recovery period for your specific treatment.
Can HALO® cause hyperpigmentation?
Laser resurfacing can cause temporary or, less commonly, prolonged pigmentation changes. The risk depends on factors including skin type, treatment settings, sun exposure, and individual susceptibility. Appropriate patient selection and post-treatment sun protection are important.
Where can I get HALO® laser treatment for acne scars in Fort Collins?
Premier Skin Clinic provides advanced aesthetic and skin-rejuvenation treatments in Fort Collins, Colorado. A consultation can help determine whether HALO® is appropriate for your acne scars and whether another treatment or combination approach may provide better results.
