Helix Skin Resurfacing

ICON Dermatology is excited to have Helix by DEKA, a powerful fusion of skin resurfacing technology. Helix is a non-invasive, energy-based skin resurfacing device that combines fractional ablative CO2 and non-ablative technologies. Using Helix, our board-certified dermatologists can now offer patients three branded protocols: CoolPeel, Sultra, and FUSION.

 

COOLPEEL: ABLATIVE CO2 RESURFACING

Ablative CO2 (carbon dioxide) lasers use a high­ powered light beam that heats and vaporizes the top layer of skin. Tiny channels of skin are removed or ablated thereby stimulating new collagen production while the heat causes skin tightening. Helix's ablative treatments range from a more intense, advanced CO2 laser resurfacing that targets deep wrinkles and laxity to the award­ winning and exclusive CoolPeel. CoolPeel delivers superficial resurfacing while reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and sun-damage. Patients see improvement in skin tone and texture and experience little to no-downtime.

 

FUSION: BLENDED ABLATIVE & NON-ABLATIVE RESURFACING

Combining ablative and non-ablative energy in Helix's unique FUSION treatment allows for faster healing with enhanced results. In a single session your physician can target variable depths and concerns. FUSION treatments leverage the proprietary CO2 and 1570nm blending patterns that are unique to the Helix device with options safe for light and dark skin types. Skin tone, elasticity and texture are improved because of the combined benefits of vaporizing selective superficial tissues and delivering energy deeper below the surface.

 

SULTRA: NON-ABLATIVE RESURFACING

Sultra treatments performed with the Helix device use a wavelength of light (1570nm) to generate heat deep below the skin without injuring, or ablating, the skin's surface. A light-based energy targets water in the tissue, stimulating collagen production that causes skin to look more youthful and healthier over time. This wavelength also does not affect melanin in your skin and can be safe in darker skin types. Helix's non-ablative Sultra treatments gradually improve fine lines, skin tone and texture with less healing time than ablative treatments.

  

WHAT MAKES HELIX SPECIAL?

Only HELIX offers the benefits of the most advanced fractional CO2 technology and non-ablative resurfacing to be used alone or together for superior results and healing time. Its three exclusive treatment protocols highlight the versatility and customization of HELIX technology. Our board-certified dermatologists can customize your treatment for your needs, utilizing three different modalities in a single session.

 

WHAT CAN HELIX TREAT?

Helix is designed to treat a variety of skin conditions, including:

  • Fine lines

  • Wrinkles

  • Skin laxity around the eyes

  • Scars

  • Unwanted pigment

  • Skin tone and texture

  

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HELIX?

Helix laser skin resurfacing can have many benefits, including: 

  •  Skin improvement

Helix laser can improve your skin's overall appearance, texture, and tone. It can also reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, and other facial scars. 

 

  • Skin rejuvenation

Helix laser can rejuvenate your skin and restore a more youthful appearance. 

 

  • Skin tone

Helix laser can brighten and even out your skin tone and treat sunspots and areas of hyperpigmentation. 

 

  • Skin type

Helix laser is suitable for all skin types. 

 

  • Customizable

Helix laser treatments can be customized to meet your unique needs and goals. 

 

  • Less Downtime

Helix laser treatments have less downtime than other fractional laser treatments.

 

 AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR HELIX?

Helix Skin resurfacing is generally suitable for individuals looking to improve the appearance of their skin without undergoing invasive surgery. While the treatment is highly effective, there may be certain contraindications or disqualifications, such as specific allergies or health issues. During your consultation with our board-certified dermatologists, your eligibility for the procedure will be assessed, and any concerns will be addressed.

  

DO I NEED ANESTHESIA FOR HELIX?

Previous CO2 laser treatments often required oral sedation/pain medication, as well as local nerve blocks. With Helix, patients will only require topical numbing cream prior to treatment. A Zimmer, or cold air device, will also be used during treatment to increase comfort.   

 

ARE HELIX TREATMENTS SAFE?

The Helix Laser is designed with patient safety in mind. The precision of fractional laser technology minimizes the risk of adverse effects, such as hyperpigmentation or scarring, making it suitable for a wide range of skin types and tones.

 

IS HELIX PAINFUL?

Helix laser treatments are much less painful than traditional CO2 laser treatments. There isn’t any need for oral or injectable anesthesia with Helix treatments. We typically recommend topical numbing cream be applied for 30-60 minutes prior to treatment to ensure your comfort.

 

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF HELIX?

All non-invasive aesthetic treatments come with the risk of side effects. While rare, HELIX may cause:

  • Burning to the area

  • Excessive redness

  • Itching

  • Pain

As with any laser, there is a risk of hyperpigmentation following treatment, especially in darker skin types; however, the risk of pigmentation issues is significantly decreased by Helix’s innovative technology and it has been safely used in all skin types.

Additionally, the laser can trigger an outbreak of cold sores in patients who have the herpes simplex virus. Our dermatologists can provide a prescription for antiviral medication in advance of treatment if necessary.

 

WHAT IS HELIX TREATMENT LIKE?

The Helix laser treatment involves the use of the advanced Helix device to deliver targeted CO2  and 1570nm laser energy to the skin’s surface. The treatment can be adjusted based on your specific needs, with varying levels of intensity available. The procedure typically takes a short amount of time, and most patients find it comfortable due to the use of numbing agents.

 

Post-procedure, the treated skin may feel dry and rough (like fine sandpaper) as it heals, so it is important to keep the skin hydrated. After your treatment, our board-certified dermatologists will recommend a post-treatment skincare regimen.

 

HOW LONG DOES HELIX TREATMENT TAKE?

A Helix laser treatment can take anywhere from 15–60 minutes, depending on the treatment specifics.  However, patients typically arrive one hour early to allow for proper anesthesia with topical numbing.

 

WHAT IS RECOVERY LIKE FOR HELIX?

One of the main benefits of a Helix treatment is that there is minimal downtime. The recovery time after Helix Skin Resurfacing is relatively short. Most patients experience mild redness and swelling for a few days. You will also experience a sandpaper-like texture or a “coffee ground” like appearance for up to a week. We suggest that you avoid makeup, sunscreen, and active topical products for a minimum of 24 hours post-treatment. After this time, mineral sunscreen is recommended, and makeup may be used. It is best to sleep with a clean pillowcase and the head slightly elevated to minimize swelling.

Our board-certified dermatologists will help you to determine which products are suitable and when you can resume your usual skincare routine. We will provide you with post-treatment care instructions to ensure that your skin stays protected and hydrated as it heals so that you achieve optimal results.

  

WHEN WILL I SEE THE RESULTS FROM HELIX?

Results will vary depending on the severity of your concerns, your natural healing process, and the areas treated. Some patients see HELIX results after just one treatment, but others may need multiple sessions to see optimum results.

 

During the treatment, collagen production will be stimulated, and skin resurfacing will begin. The Helix results will develop as the treated skin heals. Patients will see that fresh skin will be revealed as the damaged treated surface layer falls away.

The skin requires roughly a week to turn over the epidermis, and then you will see dramatic changes to your skin. Texture concerns, sun damage, age spots and pigmentation, and overall dull skin will all be significantly improved as new, and healthier skin continues to surface.

Within the next few months, the results will improve and should last for three to five years. However, results vary and depend on your skin baseline and the number of treatment sessions received.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I GET A HELIX TREATMENT?

Our board-certified dermatologists will discuss a treatment plan with you, including the spacing of your treatment sessions. Depending on your skin, your skin goals, and the intensity of the treatment selected, a series of treatments may be recommended. We typically recommend annual treatments thereafter to maintain optimum results.

 

 

We are excited to be one of the only dermatology practices in the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC to offer Helix Laser Resurfacing. To learn what Helix might do for your skin please schedule a consultation with our physicians by calling us at 301-810- 3600.