Helix Hybrid CO2 Laser
As a Key Opinion Leader for Cartessa, Dr. Khurana is proud to announce the addition of the HELIX laser to our suite of advanced aesthetic technologies at Shine MD. The CoolPeel is the proud winner of the NewBeauty Award for Best CO2 Laser Treatment in 2023, 2024, and 2025.
CO2 Laser for Skin Resurfacing and Acne Scars
The HELIX represents a new generation of CO₂ laser technology, offering exceptional results in resurfacing fine lines and improving textural concerns, including acne scars. What truly sets the HELIX apart is its safety and efficacy for skin of color, making it a versatile and inclusive solution for a wider range of skin tones.
With the unique ability to deliver two types of energy, the HELIX provides customizable treatments tailored to individual skin needs—resulting in more precise outcomes with minimal downtime.
We are excited to bring this powerful technology to our patients and continue delivering the highest standard of care in skin rejuvenation.
What Makes the HELIX CO₂ Laser Different?
The HELIX CO₂ laser is a next-generation device that redefines what’s possible in skin rejuvenation. Unlike traditional CO₂ lasers, the HELIX offers three unique treatment modalities in one system, giving providers unmatched flexibility and patients customized outcomes with minimal downtime.
1. CoolPeel™ — Ablative with Minimal Downtime
The CoolPeel™ treatment delivers the benefits of a traditional CO₂ laser—like improved skin texture, tone, and reduced fine lines—without the extended recovery time. It’s a precise, superficial ablative treatment that can be performed in a series to gradually reveal glowing, radiant skin with minimal redness or flaking.
2. Sultra™ — Non-Ablative Dermal Heating
The Sultra™ setting delivers non-ablative energy deep into the dermis, stimulating collagen production, tightening the skin, and improving overall elasticity—all without disrupting the skin’s surface. It’s ideal for patients seeking firmer skin and subtle texture improvements with zero downtime.
3. Fusion Treatment — Dual-Modality Resurfacing
What truly sets the HELIX apart is its ability to combine both ablative and non-ablative energy in a single session. This Fusion Treatment offers comprehensive skin resurfacing and rejuvenation, achieving transformative results in texture, tone, and firmness—with less downtime than traditional aggressive CO₂ treatments.
Ablative vs. Non-Ablative Lasers: What’s the Difference?
Ablative Lasers
- Remove the top layers of aged and sun-damaged skin (epidermis), decreasing the appearance of age spots and solar lentigines
- More invasive, but delivers dramatic results in a single session
- Ideal for deep wrinkles, acne scars, pigmentation, and dark spots
- Requires a few days of downtime for healing and recovery
Non-Ablative Lasers
- Heat the deeper layers of skin without damaging the surface.
- Less invasive, with no downtime.
- Best for skin tightening, texture refinement, and mild wrinkles.
- Requires a series of treatments for optimal results.
What Are the Benefits of CO2 Treatment with HELIX?
It is used for skin rejuvenation and resurfacing, targeting issues like:
- Acne scars
- Fine lines, wrinkles
- Uneven skin texture
- Pigmentation/sun damage
- Post Surgical Scars
- Skin laxity, collagen stimulation
Because of its flexibility, it can be adjusted for more aggressive or gentler treatments depending on your skin type, tolerance, and recovery goals. The Fusion mode in particular can deliver deeper correction (ablative + non‑ablative) with less downtime than older fully ablative CO2 systems.
CO₂ Laser for Acne Scarring
If you struggle with acne scarring—atrophic, boxcar or ice pick scars—a CO₂ laser resurfacing treatment may be your best solution to soften acne scars. At Shine MD, Dr. Khurana offers the advanced HELIX CO₂ laser, which delivers remarkable improvement in skin texture and scarring, leaving your skin smoother, more even, and with a healthy, radiant glow.
At Shine MD, we specialize in advanced acne scar treatments tailored to deliver safe, effective, and lasting results.
Our expert team combines cutting-edge procedures to resurface and rejuvenate your skin. Treatments like CO2 laser resurfacing can be enhanced with PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and subcision to improve healing and boost collagen production. For optimal results, we also offer Radiofrequency Microneedling using technologies like Potenza and Morpheus8, which can be strategically stacked with other therapies for deeper remodeling and smoother skin.
Why the HELIX CO₂ is Different
Traditional CO₂ lasers are only recommended for lighter skin types due to the risk of hyperpigmentation or scarring in melanin-rich skin. The HELIX is a breakthrough technology that changes the standard.
By combining ablative and non-ablative energy in a single platform called the Fusion treatment, the HELIX is safe and effective for all skin types, including darker skin tones. This technology aligns with Dr. Khurana’s commitment to offering inclusive, top-tier care that advocates for skin of color.
What to Expect During Your CO₂ Laser Treatment
Your comfort is our priority. Before treatment begins, a member of our clinical team will apply a topical anesthetic to numb the area. You may also choose to enhance your comfort further with nitrous oxide (Pro-Nox) for a more relaxed experience.
During the procedure:
- You’ll feel warmth on the skin, and possibly a mild prickling sensation
- Our team will carefully and uniformly treat the target area using the HELIX laser handpiece
- Treatment time typically ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the area
Pre-Treatment Instructions for All Skin Resurfacing Procedures
To ensure the safety and effectiveness of your skin resurfacing treatment, please carefully follow the guidelines below. These steps help minimize potential complications and support optimal results.
2–7 Days Before Treatment
- Stop using retinoids/retinols and any products that may dehydrate the skin.
- Discontinue all exfoliating products, including scrubs, acids (AHAs/BHAs), and peels, at least 1 week prior.
2+ Weeks Before Treatment
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ that protects against UVA and UVB rays whenever outdoors.
3+ Months Before Treatment
- Stop Accutane® (Isotretinoin) usage at least 3 months prior, or as directed by your provider.
7 Days Before Treatment
- Avoid aspirin, NSAIDs, and any supplements that may thin the blood (e.g., fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba), unless otherwise instructed.
Additional Recommendations
- If you have a history of cold sores (HSV-1), begin antiviral prophylaxis as prescribed by your provider to prevent outbreaks.
- Patients with melanin-rich skin or a history of hyperpigmentation may benefit from pre-treatment with a melanin-suppressing agent (e.g., hydroquinone), applied twice daily for 2+ weeks, or as recommended.
What is the Downtime After a CO₂ Laser?
Your downtime will depend on the intensity of your treatment. CoolPeel treatments have minimal to no downtime, with patients returning to activity and makeup within 1-2 days. More aggressive fusion treatments that target moderate to severe texture and pigment will require more attention to post-care regimens.
Timeline of Recovery:
- Day 1: Skin feels warm and looks red
- Day 2: Mild swelling and peeling may begin
- Days 3–5: Continued healing and flaking as new skin surfaces
- By Day 5–7: Most patients see redness subside, with visible skin rejuvenation emerging
- Return to Work: Many patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities by day 5, depending on personal comfort and healing.
Makeup can generally be worn after 5–7 days, once the skin barrier has recovered.
Avoid sun exposure for 2-4 weeks or as recommended by the team. Avoid exercise, sweating, excessive heat, saunas, and hot tubs for 5-7 days.
Post-Treatment Care Instructions
After your treatment, it’s normal to experience certain side effects as your skin begins the healing process. Please follow the guidelines below to ensure optimal results and a smooth recovery.
What to Expect Immediately After Treatment:
- A hot or sunburn-like sensation for 2 to 6+ hours post-treatment.
- Swelling, redness, and mild to moderate discomfort are expected.
- Pinpoint bleeding, weeping, or oozing may occur.
How to Soothe Discomfort:
- Use a cool misting spray or sterile cool compresses (avoid ice) to help reduce heat and discomfort.
- Once the sunburn sensation subsides (typically by bedtime), gently apply a thin layer of Aquahpor or Alastin Nectar and Skin Balm to keep the area moisturized and protected.
Days 1–5+: Cleansing and Moisturizing
- Wash the treated area gently with a mild cleanser, morning and evening.
- Blot dry—do not rub or scrub.
Additional Post-Treatment Care Guidelines
To support healing and ensure the best possible results, please follow these important care instructions:
General Skin Care
- Avoid exfoliants and other active skincare products or procedures for 5–7 days, or as directed by your provider.
- Cleanse with a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser morning and evening.
→ Do not scrub — blot the skin dry with a clean towel. - After 48 hours, only if the skin barrier is intact, begin using a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to protect the treated area.
Hygiene & Healing
- Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching the treated area unnecessarily.
- Keep the area clean and protected from contaminants such as dirt, pets, and other irritants.
- Sleep with your head slightly elevated to reduce swelling.
The Results
As your skin continues to heal over the following weeks, you’ll notice:
- Smoother texture
- Reduced the appearance of acne scars
- Refined pores
- A healthy, luminous finish
Because the HELIX also stimulates collagen remodeling, your results will continue to improve for months after treatment.
Why Patients Love the HELIX
- Safe for all skin types, including skin of color
- Versatile treatment options with customizable energy delivery
- Fusion of dramatic results + low downtime
- Backed by the trusted technology of Cartessa Aesthetics
Experience the Power of Personalized Resurfacing
The HELIX CO₂ laser represents the next generation of skin rejuvenation—offering powerful, customizable treatments for acne scars, fine lines, and textural concerns with minimal downtime and maximum results. Safe for all skin types and backed by Dr. Khurana’s expertise, the HELIX allows us to deliver truly inclusive, high-performance care.
Book your personalized HELIX consultation at Shine MD today and take the first step toward your skin transformation.
Discover Our
Before & After Gallery
Want to see real patient results from our innovative skin treatments? View our impressive before and after images in our photo gallery.
*Individual results may vary.