Advances in Skin Care
Comparing Broadband Light Therapy and the HALO Laser
9/2/2025
Nikole Larkin, APNP, Aspirus Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
As more patients
seek non-surgical options for skin rejuvenation, treatments such as Broadband
Light Therapy (BBL) and the HALO laser are gaining attention for their ability
to address signs of sun damage, aging, and uneven skin tone.
The 2023 American
Society of Plastic Surgeons Report noted a 7 percent increase in minimally
invasive procedures compared to the previous year, outpacing the growth rate of
surgical procedures by 2 percent and reinforcing a continued shift in patient
preference toward less-invasive treatments.
Broadband Light
Therapy and HALO represent two examples of how aesthetic medicine continues to
expand treatment options, offering patients choices based on their goals, skin
type, and lifestyle.
Broadband Light
Therapy uses intense pulsed light to treat superficial skin concerns, including
sunspots, age spots, redness, and rosacea. Unlike traditional lasers, BBL
utilizes a range of light wavelengths to selectively target pigmentation and
vascular irregularities.
"BBL treatments
are generally quick, and most patients experience only mild redness, similar to
a sunburn," said Nikole
Larkin, nurse practitioner with Aspirus Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics.
"Patients usually resume normal activities within 24 to 48 hours, although
we recommend avoiding sun exposure immediately afterward."
BBL is often
performed as a series of treatments to gradually reduce pigmentation concerns.
The HALO laser, a
hybrid fractional laser, delivers both ablative and non-ablative wavelengths to
treat surface and deeper layers of the skin. It is typically used to address
fine lines, acne scars, and uneven texture.
"HALO
treatments involve more downtime, usually about five to seven days, but the
results are often more significant," Larkin said.
Unlike BBL, a single
HALO session may be sufficient for many patients, although maintenance
treatments can be considered based on individual needs.
Some patients
combine HALO and BBL therapies to maximize results. "A common approach is
to perform one HALO session paired with a series of BBL treatments,"
Larkin said. "Together, they can address both pigment issues and textural
concerns."
Larkin emphasized
the importance of consultation to match patients with the appropriate treatment
plan based on their skin condition and personal goals.
For more information
about services offered through Aspirus Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics, visit aspirus.org/plastic-surgery.
Back to all Posts