If you are considering laser resurfacing for sun damage, pigmentation, uneven texture or signs of ageing, you may be comparing Fraxel and Halo. Both are fractional lasers, but they use different technologies and wavelengths to treat the skin.
Fraxel uses non-ablative fractional laser energy with different wavelengths, while Halo combines non-ablative and ablative wavelengths in one treatment. You and your dermatologist can consider your skin type, pigmentation, treatment goals and preferred downtime to decide whether either treatment is suitable for you. This article compares Fraxel DUAL with the original two-wavelength HALO system using 1470 nm and 2940 nm, rather than the newer HALO TRIBRID system, which adds a 1927 nm wavelength.
What Are Fraxel and Halo Laser Treatments?
Fraxel and Halo are both fractional laser treatments, which means they create microscopic treatment zones while leaving surrounding skin relatively untouched. This allows your skin to heal between treated areas while gradually improving concerns such as uneven texture, pigmentation and sun-related changes.
Fraxel DUAL uses non-ablative 1550 nm and 1927 nm wavelengths, while original HALO combines non-ablative 1470 nm with ablative 2940 nm Er:YAG. Your dermatologist can tailor the wavelength, depth and treatment settings according to your skin concerns and the results you hope to achieve.
How Does Halo Laser Treatment Work?
Halo combines two wavelengths within the same fractional treatment. Its 1470 nm wavelength provides deeper non-ablative treatment, while the 2940 nm Er:YAG wavelength creates controlled superficial ablation.
This allows Halo to treat different levels of your skin without removing the entire surface. Treatment depth and density can be adjusted according to your skin, the treatment area and how much recovery time you can manage.
Research Insight
A 2018 multicentre prospective study enrolled 34 women with photodamaged skin, with 29 completing follow-up after hybrid 1470 nm and 2940 nm fractional laser treatment. Blinded photographic assessment found significant skin improvement in 80% of participants, although two developed temporary post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The study was small and did not directly compare HALO with Fraxel, so it cannot establish which treatment is superior.
What Is the Main Difference Between Fraxel and Halo?
Fraxel is non-ablative and uses 1550 nm and 1927 nm wavelengths, while original HALO combines non-ablative 1470 nm treatment with fractional ablative 2940 nm Er:YAG. Both treatments can be adjusted according to your skin, the concern being treated and how much recovery you can accommodate.
Your main skin concern and the amount of downtime you can manage should guide your choice. Before deciding, talk through what you want to improve, how your skin is likely to respond and what recovery may look like for you.
How Does Fraxel Laser Treatment Work?
Fraxel delivers laser energy into microscopic treatment zones without removing the entire surface of your skin. The 1550 nm wavelength reaches more deeply and is used for concerns such as acne scars and uneven texture, while the 1927 nm wavelength works more superficially for selected pigmentation and sun-related changes.
The treatment creates controlled thermal zones that trigger your skin’s healing and remodelling process. The wavelength and intensity can be adjusted according to what you want to improve, while temporary darkening or flaking may occur as your skin recovers.
Fraxel DUAL vs Original HALO at a Glance
| Feature | Fraxel DUAL | Original HALO |
| Technology | Non-ablative fractional laser | Hybrid fractional laser |
| Wavelengths | 1550 nm and 1927 nm | 1470 nm and 2940 nm |
| Ablative component | No | Yes, superficial 2940 nm Er:YAG |
| Deeper treatment | 1550 nm fractional thermal treatment | 1470 nm non-ablative coagulation |
| Superficial treatment | 1927 nm non-ablative treatment | 2940 nm fractional ablation |
| Acne scars | 1550 nm has a specific acne-scar indication | May be considered for selected scar-related texture |
| Pigmentation | 1927 nm may treat selected superficial pigmented lesions | May improve selected dyschromia and photodamage |
| Recovery | Depends on wavelength, density and energy | Depends on depth and density of both wavelengths |
| Main consideration | Choosing the appropriate Fraxel wavelength and settings | Balancing superficial ablation with deeper non-ablative treatment |
Which Treatment Can Help With Sun Damage?
Fraxel DUAL’s 1927 nm wavelength can target superficial pigmentation such as sun spots and freckles, while the 1550 nm wavelength may help with deeper textural changes caused by photodamage. HALO takes a different approach by combining 1470 nm non-ablative treatment with superficial 2940 nm Er:YAG ablation.
Before recommending resurfacing, your dermatologist should identify the type of pigmentation and photodamage you have. This helps you choose an approach that matches what you actually want to improve rather than simply choosing between two device names.
Which Treatment Is Better for Pigmentation?
Fraxel DUAL’s 1927 nm wavelength can improve selected superficial pigmentation such as freckles, sun spots and age spots. Original HALO may also improve dyschromia and photodamage by combining superficial ablation with deeper non-ablative treatment.
Your pigmentation type and skin tone matter when choosing treatment. Before either laser is considered, your dermatologist should distinguish between concerns such as melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and sun spots because they can respond very differently to resurfacing.
Clinical Tip
If you have a history of melasma or dark marks after acne, irritation or cosmetic procedures, tell your dermatologist before laser treatment. Correctly identifying the type of pigmentation is important because inflammation from resurfacing can sometimes make pigment changes worse.
What If You Have Melasma?
Melasma needs particular care because heat and inflammation from laser treatment can sometimes worsen pigmentation or contribute to recurrence. If you have brown pigmentation that has not been formally diagnosed, it is important to establish what is causing it before considering Fraxel or HALO.
Laser treatment may be considered in selected cases, but results can vary and pigmentation may return. Your dermatologist may therefore prioritise photoprotection and established medical treatments before deciding whether laser treatment is appropriate for your skin.
Which Treatment Can Improve Skin Texture and Enlarged Pores?
Both treatments can improve uneven skin texture and may make enlarged pores look less noticeable. Fraxel DUAL’s 1550 nm wavelength works more deeply on textural changes, while HALO combines deeper thermal treatment with superficial resurfacing.
Pores cannot be permanently closed, but improving the quality and texture of the surrounding skin can make them look less noticeable. Your dermatologist can also assess whether the uneven texture is mainly superficial, scar-related or linked to sun damage before recommending treatment.
Which Treatment May Help With Acne Scars?
If acne scars have left your skin uneven, either treatment may be considered, although the type of scarring you have is important. Fraxel DUAL’s 1550 nm wavelength has a specific acne-scar indication, while HALO combines superficial ablation with deeper non-ablative treatment.
Rolling, boxcar and ice-pick scars do not necessarily respond in the same way. If you have deeply tethered scars, your dermatologist may also discuss treatments such as subcision rather than relying on laser resurfacing alone.
Evidence Note
Fraxel DUAL 1550 nm has a specific indication for acne scars, while evidence for hybrid fractional laser treatment is still developing for scar-specific use. There is not enough direct comparative evidence to say that Fraxel or HALO is universally better for acne scarring.
Which Treatment Is Better for Fine Lines and Ageing Skin?
Both treatments may improve fine lines and textural changes linked to ageing and sun exposure. Fraxel DUAL’s 1550 nm wavelength works more deeply, while HALO combines superficial ablation with deeper thermal treatment.
The right approach depends on whether you mainly want to improve fine lines, pigmentation, texture or a combination of concerns. It is also important to have realistic expectations, as laser resurfacing cannot replace lost facial volume or correct significant skin laxity.
How Does the Treatment Experience Compare?
Fraxel and Halo treatments usually involve numbing and cooling to make the procedure more comfortable. The exact sensation can vary depending on your treatment settings and skin sensitivity.
- Fraxel sensation: You may feel increasing warmth or a prickling sensation.
- Halo sensation: Treatment can feel hot with occasional prickling.
- Numbing: A topical anaesthetic is usually applied before treatment.
- Cooling: Cooling may be used during or after treatment to improve comfort.
Your experience will depend on the intensity of treatment and your individual sensitivity. Your dermatologist can explain what to expect and how discomfort will be managed.
UK Guidance Note
UK MHRA guidance emphasises that medical and aesthetic laser systems should be used within appropriate safety procedures, with trained users, suitable treatment protocols and measures to protect patients from avoidable laser-related risks. A proper consultation should therefore include assessment of your skin, medical history and the specific device and settings being proposed.
How Does Fraxel Downtime Compare With Halo?
Both treatments can leave your skin red, dry or visibly different while it heals. Fraxel may cause peeling and temporary darkening, while HALO can cause redness, swelling, tightness and a temporarily bronzed or rough texture.
Your recovery will depend largely on the intensity and settings used. Ask your dermatologist what downtime is realistic for your treatment rather than assuming that one device will always involve a longer recovery than the other.
How Should You Look After Your Skin During Recovery?
Follow the aftercare instructions provided for your treatment and avoid rubbing, picking or pulling at peeling or crusted skin. Keeping your skincare gentle and using an appropriate moisturiser can help your skin feel more comfortable while its barrier recovers.
Sun protection is especially important after laser treatment because UV exposure and inflammation can contribute to unwanted pigment changes. Your dermatologist can also advise you when it is safe to restart active products such as retinoids, acids or exfoliants.
How Many Treatments Might You Need?
How many sessions you need will depend on your skin, the concern being treated, the intensity of treatment and how you respond. You may need one or several Fraxel DUAL or HALO sessions, and there is no reliable rule that HALO will always require fewer treatments.
Your skin also needs time to heal and remodel between sessions. Further treatment can be adjusted according to your response rather than following a fixed number of sessions in advance.
When Will You See Results?
You may notice some early changes after Fraxel or HALO, although deeper improvements usually develop more gradually. Pigmentation can temporarily darken and your skin may initially look red, dry or swollen before you begin to notice a clearer tone or smoother texture.
Your results can continue developing for weeks or months as your skin remodels. Taking standardised photographs before treatment and again after your skin has healed can make it easier to judge your progress objectively.
Are Fraxel and Halo Suitable for Different Skin Tones?
Fraxel DUAL and HALO may be considered across different skin tones, but treatment settings and pigmentation risk need careful assessment. Your pigmentation history, recent tanning and tendency to develop dark marks can affect the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Your dermatologist should assess your skin tone and previous reactions before treatment. The practitioner’s experience treating your skin type is also relevant when planning the procedure.
When Might Laser Treatment Need to Be Postponed?
Treatment may need to be postponed if you have an active skin infection, cold sore, significant inflammation or another issue affecting healing. You should tell your dermatologist about previous scarring, pigment changes, recent procedures and medicines.
You should not stop prescribed medicines yourself before laser treatment. Your dermatologist can advise you whether any changes are needed before your procedure.
What Are the Risks and Possible Side Effects?
Your skin can become red, warm, dry or flaky after Fraxel or HALO, and temporary darkening may occur during healing. Less common risks include infection, burns, blistering, scarring, delayed healing and unwanted pigmentation changes.
Your medical history also matters, including previous scarring, cold sores, skin infections, medicines and recent procedures. Sharing this information before treatment helps your dermatologist choose a laser and settings that are appropriate for your skin.
How Can You Decide Between Fraxel and Halo?
Start with the change in your skin that you most want to improve rather than focusing on the device name. Fraxel offers 1927 nm treatment for selected superficial pigmentation and 1550 nm treatment for deeper textural concerns, while original HALO combines 1470 nm and 2940 nm wavelengths to work at different levels of the skin.
Your skin tone, pigmentation history and the amount of downtime you can realistically manage also matter. A consultation gives you the opportunity to discuss the exact treatment settings, likely results, limitations and recovery before deciding which approach best fits your needs.
Myth vs Fact
| Myth | Fact |
| HALO is always stronger than Fraxel | Treatment intensity depends on the wavelengths, depth, density and energy used rather than the brand name alone. |
| HALO always needs fewer sessions | The number of treatments depends on your concern, settings and individual response. |
| Fraxel and HALO treat every type of pigmentation | Pigmentation needs a diagnosis first because melasma, sun spots and post-inflammatory pigmentation behave differently. |
| Either laser can completely remove acne scars | Laser treatment generally improves rather than erases scars, and some scars need additional procedures. |
| The same settings are suitable for every skin tone | Skin tone and previous pigment changes influence treatment planning and complication risk. |
Key Takeaways
- Fraxel DUAL and original HALO are both fractional laser systems, but they use different technologies.
- Fraxel DUAL is non-ablative and uses 1550 nm and 1927 nm wavelengths.
- Original HALO combines non-ablative 1470 nm treatment with superficial 2940 nm Er:YAG ablation.
- Neither treatment is universally better for every skin concern.
- The most suitable option depends on the concern being treated, scar or pigmentation type, skin tone, previous reactions, treatment settings and acceptable downtime.
- Pigmentary conditions such as melasma need particularly careful assessment before laser resurfacing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main difference between Fraxel and Halo laser?
Fraxel uses non-ablative fractional laser energy, while Halo combines non-ablative and ablative wavelengths in the same treatment. This means your Fraxel treatment mainly creates controlled thermal zones within your skin, whereas Halo can treat both deeper tissue and the surface.
2. What should you tell your dermatologist before Fraxel or HALO?
Tell your dermatologist about previous pigment changes, abnormal scarring, cold sores, medicines, recent cosmetic procedures and any reactions to previous laser treatments. These factors can influence whether treatment is appropriate and how the settings are selected.
3. Can Fraxel or HALO permanently close enlarged pores?
No laser can permanently close pores. Improving surrounding texture and skin quality may make pores appear less noticeable, but results vary according to the cause of the enlarged pores and the treatment used.
4. Is Fraxel or Halo better for your sun damage?
Fraxel DUAL’s 1927 nm wavelength is indicated for selected superficial pigmented lesions, including freckles, solar lentigines and age spots. Halo can address your photodamage through both deeper non-ablative treatment and superficial fractional ablation.
5. Can Fraxel and Halo treat your pigmentation?
Both treatments can improve certain types of pigmentation, but you need an accurate diagnosis before choosing either laser. Your dermatologist should distinguish between sun spots, freckles, melasma and post-inflammatory pigmentation because your skin may respond differently to laser energy.
6. Which treatment is better for your acne scars?
Fraxel DUAL’s 1550 nm wavelength is specifically indicated for acne scars and can stimulate deeper collagen remodelling without completely removing your skin surface. HALO may be considered for selected scar-related texture, although scar-specific evidence is less established and there is no direct evidence showing that HALO is universally better than Fraxel DUAL for acne scars.
7. Which laser can improve your skin texture and enlarged pores?
Both Fraxel and Halo can improve your uneven skin texture by stimulating skin remodelling. Halo also provides superficial fractional ablation, which can resurface your skin, while either treatment may make your pores appear less prominent by improving the surrounding texture.
8. Can Fraxel or HALO be used after recent tanning?
Recent tanning can increase the risk of unwanted pigment changes and may mean treatment needs to be postponed. Your current skin tone, recent sun exposure and pigmentation history should be assessed before treatment.
9. How much downtime will you have after Fraxel or Halo?
After Fraxel, your skin may feel sunburnt and can become red, dry, rough or flaky as it heals. Halo can also cause your skin to become red, swollen, tight and temporarily bronzed or rough, with your recovery depending on the treatment intensity.
10. When can you restart active skincare after Fraxel or HALO?
This depends on the treatment intensity and how your skin is healing. Follow your dermatologist’s aftercare plan and ask when products such as retinoids, acids or exfoliants can safely be restarted.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Between Fraxel and Halo Laser
Fraxel and Halo can both improve concerns such as pigmentation, sun damage, uneven texture and selected acne scarring, but they use different fractional technologies. The right option for you will depend on factors such as your skin tone, treatment goals, pigmentation history and how much downtime you can realistically manage.
If you’re considering Fraxel laser treatment in London, you can get in touch with our team at London Dermatology Centre.
References:
- Piętowska, Z., Nowicka, D. and Szepietowski, J.C. (2022) ‘Understanding Melasma How Can Pharmacology and Cosmetology Procedures and Prevention Help to Achieve Optimal Treatment Results? A Narrative Review’, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(19), article 12084. Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/19/19/12084
- Waibel, J., Pozner, J., Robb, C. and Tanzi, E. (2018) ‘Hybrid Fractional Laser: A Multi-Center Trial on the Safety and Efficacy for Photorejuvenation’, Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 17(11), pp. 1164–1168. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30481954/
- Friedman, P.M. et al. (2022) ‘1,550 nm Erbium-Doped and 1,927 nm Thulium Nonablative Fractional Laser System: Best Practices and Treatment Setting Recommendations’, Dermatologic Surgery, 48(2), pp. 195–200. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8806037/
- You, H.-J., Kim, D.-W., Yoon, E.-S. and Park, S.-H. (2016) ‘Comparison of four different lasers for acne scars: Resurfacing and fractional lasers’, Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, 69(4), pp. e87–e95. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S174868151500604X
- Ong, M.W.S. and Bashir, S.J. (2012) ‘Fractional laser resurfacing for acne scars: a review’, British Journal of Dermatology, 166(6), pp. 1160–1169. Available at: https://academic.oup.com/bjd/article-abstract/166/6/1160/6613826