If you’ve been curious about Helix™, our newest laser resurfacing platform, you probably have one question at the top of your list: which treatment is right for me, and how much downtime am I really looking at? Good news — Helix isn’t one-size-fits-all. It powers three distinct treatments, each built for a different goal and a different amount of recovery time. Here’s how CoolPeel, Sultra, and Fusion compare — plus a first look at our upcoming launch event, The Helix Experience.
Three Treatments, Three Recovery Timelines
Every Helix treatment starts with the same advanced platform, but your provider dials it in differently depending on what you want to see — and how much downtime you’re willing to plan around.
CoolPeel
CoolPeel is Helix’s award-winning, no-downtime treatment — literally no downtime. Using DEKA’s exclusive high-pulse technology, it delivers short, high-peak-power pulses that resurface skin without the thermal spread that usually causes CO2 downtime. A full-face treatment takes less than 10 minutes, which is part of why it’s been named NewBeauty’s Best CO2 Laser Treatment four years running.
BEST FOR: skin tone and texture, sun damage, fine lines, mild laxity, enlarged pores, acne scarring
RECOVERY: little to none — most patients are back to normal activities the same day, with only mild, makeup-coverable redness
CoolPeel FAQs
What is CoolPeel?
CoolPeel is the revolutionary, award-winning, and proven way to safely and comfortably deliver the benefits of a traditional CO2 resurfacing treatment. By precisely targeting the superficial layer of skin tissue, it removes damaged skin to reveal younger, healthier-looking skin.
What makes CoolPeel different?
Traditional CO2 lasers have long been considered the gold standard for improving wrinkles, age spots, acne scars, blemishes as well as tighten skin and balance tone. They work by removing damaged skin and stimulating collagen production. To achieve these results there is significant injury to the skin causing considerable downtime and risk while the damaged skin heals.
That’s where CoolPeel comes in. CoolPeel offers the same results with no downtime due to the fractional ablative technology that no other CO2 device has. You can enjoy tighter, brighter and healthier looking skin with minimal risk of hyperpigmentation, scarring or infection.
How does CoolPeel work?
CoolPeel is a fractional CO₂ treatment powered by DEKA technology. Instead of treating the entire surface of the skin, CoolPeel delivers precise bursts of energy in tiny spots, creating micro-channels of treated skin while leaving the surrounding skin untouched. This allows the skin to resurface and renew itself effectively and quickly—without the excess heat that typically leads to more damage and longer downtime. That’s why it’s called CoolPeel. The result is a smoother, healthierlooking complexion with far less recovery time compared to traditional CO₂ treatments.
Who is a good candidate for CoolPeel?
If you’re looking to smooth fine lines, fade sun damage, shrink the look of pores, or just give your skin a healthy refresh, CoolPeel is a great fit for you. The best part? It’s safe for all skin types and leaves your skin looking healthier, smoother, and more youthful with minimal downtime.
How long does a CoolPeel take?
A full-face CoolPeel laser treatment can take anywhere from 5-15 minutes.
Is anesthesia or numbing required?
While there is no need for anesthesia or localized numbing, your provider may use a numbing cream for additional comfort.
What is the recovery time for CoolPeel?
One of the main benefits of a CoolPeel, is that there is minimal to no downtime. You should expect to be a little red, as if you have a sunburn, for a day, or two, but nothing should prevent you from returning to your normal daily activities. Your skin may feel dry and scaly as it heals so it is important to keep your skin hydrated.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments will depend on your treatment goals. Typically 3-5 treatments are recommended spaced 4 weeks apart. Your treatment provider will customize a treatment plan with you.
Can I wear makeup after the treatment?
We recommend waiting 24 hours before applying makeup, especially if your skin is red or sensitive. Your provider will give you specific aftercare instructions.
When can I return to my skincare routine
After your CoolPeel, it’s important to follow your provider’s recommended postcare guidance. You’ll want to keep your skin hydrated and hold off on certain products for a little while. Everyone’s skin is different, so your provider will let you know exactly when it’s safe to get back to your regular skincare routine.
When will I see results?
Many patients notice an improvement in skin glow and texture after just one treatment, with continued improvement over the following weeks. A series of treatments may be recommended for best results
Can I pair CoolPeel with other treatments?
Yes! CoolPeel is often combined with other treatments like microneedling, facials, or injectables, but this should be planned by your provider to ensure timing and safety.
Good to know:
Little to none downtime, full face in under 10 minutes
Sultra
Sultra is the gentlest of the three. This non-ablative treatment uses a 1570nm fractional laser to warm the deeper layers of your skin and stimulate new collagen — without touching the surface. No open wound means next to no downtime, which makes Sultra an easy first step into resurfacing, or a treatment you can repeat often.
BEST FOR: early signs of aging, mild texture and tone concerns, gradual and cumulative improvement
RECOVERY: practically none
Sultra FAQs
What is Sultra?
Sultra is a gentle, non-ablative laser treatment that stimulates collagen production to gradually improve fine lines, skin tone, and texture—leaving your skin smoother, firmer, and refreshed from within.
What does Sultra treat?
It’s ideal for improving:
- Skin laxity
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Enlarged pores
- Acne scars and uneven texture
- Overall skin firmness and tone
Is there any downtime?
There may be some redness and mild swelling for 24–72 hours, similar to a mild sunburn. You may also feel a little tight or dry. Most patients resume normal activities the next day.
Is Sultra safe for all skin types?
Yes, Sultra is generally safe for all skin types.
When will I see results?
Some patients notice an improvement in skin texture and tone within a week, with firmer, tighter skin developing gradually over the next 4–12 weeks as collagen builds.
Good to know:
Practically no downtime, gentle enough to repeat regularly
Fusion
Fusion is the one to ask about if you want more noticeable change in fewer visits. Exclusive to Helix, it layers CoolPeel-level precision with deeper non-ablative heating in a single session — more dramatic results, with a bit more downtime to plan around.
BEST FOR: skin tone and texture, laxity, acne and surgical scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage and pigmentation, pore size
RECOVERY:more than CoolPeel or Sultra alone, but less than traditional deep CO2 resurfacing — typically a few days of redness, swelling, or light peeling
Fusion FAQs
What is a Helix Fusion Treatment?
Helix Fusion is a customizable skin treatment that combines award winning CoolPeel and non-ablative laser technologies to address a variety of skin concerns like fine lines, pigmentation, texture, and acne scars.
What does the treatment help with?
It’s great for improving skin tone, texture, and overall radiance. Depending on the settings used, it can treat:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne scars and other textural issues
- Sun damage and discoloration
- Dull or uneven skin tone
Is it painful?
Most patients find it very tolerable. You may feel warmth or a mild prickling sensation during the treatment, but it’s generally comfortable. Numbing cream may be used depending on the intensity of the treatment.
How long does it take?
A typical session takes about 30–45 minutes, depending on the area being treated and the customized settings.
Is there downtime?
The downtime depends on your treatment goals and the settings used. You can opt for a more moderate treatment with little to no downtime or if you decide to go with a more aggressive treatment there will be more downtime. Typically the longer downtime is 5-7 days.
When will I see results?
Many patients notice an improvement in skin glow and texture after just one treatment, with continued improvement over the following weeks. A series of treatments may be recommended for best results.
How many treatments will I need?
It depends on your goals. Some patients are happy with one session, while others may benefit from a series of 3–4 treatments spaced a few weeks apart.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments will depend on your treatment goals. Typically 3-5 treatments are recommended spaced 4 weeks apart. Your treatment provider will customize a treatment plan with you.
Is it safe for all skin types?
Helix Fusion is customizable and safe for a wide range of skin types and tones.
Can I wear makeup after the treatment?
We recommend waiting 24 hours before applying makeup, especially if your skin is red or sensitive. Your provider will give you specific aftercare instructions.
What should I do before my appointment?
Avoid sun exposure, retinoids, and harsh exfoliants for a few days prior. Your provider will give you any other pre-treatment guidelines based on your skin and treatment plan.
Can I pair Helix Fusion with other treatments?
Yes! Helix Fusion is often combined with other treatments like microneedling, facials, or injectables, but this should be planned by your provider to ensure timing and safety.
Good to know:
A few days downtime, bigger results in fewer sessions
Join Us:
The Helix Experience
Thursday, August 20 | 5:00–7:00 PM
at K2 Dermatology, Boulder
This August, we’re introducing Helix™ at an exclusive evening created just for you. Enjoy education on the Helix treatments, personalized recommendations from our providers, and light refreshments while you explore what’s possible for your skin.
Guests receive: a free personalized mini consultation with one of our providers (a $100 value) — a dedicated one-on-one conversation about your skin goals
Plus: a free neck treatment when you book a Helix treatment for September or October 2026 (a $400 value) — exclusively for guests who attend Space is limited — reserve your spot today.