Cartessa Helix Laser Skin Resurfacing

Why Consider Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing is a versatile, highly effective treatment for smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, refining crepey skin, and reducing sun damage and brown spots. It’s also an excellent preventative option for maintaining even texture, supporting collagen production, and minimizing the early signs of aging before they become more pronounced.

What are the treatment options, and what can they do for my skin?

At Charleston Plastic Surgery, we use the Cartessa Helix CO₂ laser system to customize fractional ablative and non-ablative treatments based on your targeted results, skin type, concerns, and desired downtime.

CoolPeel®

An ablative CO₂ resurfacing treatment, CoolPeel precisely heats and vaporizes the outermost layer of damaged skin while stimulating collagen production. This treatment improves skin tone, texture, and overall clarity with less downtime than traditional, fully ablative resurfacing.

Fusion

Fusion combines ablative and non-ablative resurfacing in one session. By delivering treatment at multiple depths, Fusion enhances results while supporting faster healing. Exclusive blending patterns unique to the Helix system make this treatment safe for both lighter and darker skin tones. Fusion is ideal for patients seeking improvements in skin texture, elasticity, and overall rejuvenation.

Sultra

Sultra is our deepest non-ablative resurfacing option, designed to improve fine lines and restore a healthier, more youthful appearance. Using a 1570 nm wavelength, Sultra penetrates deep beneath the skin’s surface without injuring the outer layer. Because it does not target melanin, it is safe for darker skin tones.

I’ve scheduled my appointment for a laser treatment. What can I expect?

Your experience begins with a comprehensive one-hour skin consultation. During this visit, we’ll discuss your goals, lifestyle, and current skincare routine to ensure a Helix treatment is the best option for you. Please arrive with a clean face. You’ll leave with a personalized skincare plan, along with detailed pre- and post-treatment instructions and recommended products to optimize your results.

On treatment day, plan to be in the office for approximately 2.5 hours. The first hour is dedicated to numbing and preparation to ensure your comfort. The second half of the appointment is the laser treatment, and we want to ensure you have enough time to effectively cover all desired areas and allow time for questions. Before you leave, we’ll thoroughly review aftercare guidelines to support proper healing and maximize your outcome.

When Will I See Results?

Immediately following treatment, your skin will appear red and swollen and may feel warm or sensitive. These effects subside over the next 24 to 48 hours, followed by light peeling as your skin renews itself.

Once the initial peeling phase is complete, you’ll notice a smoother texture and improved clarity. As collagen production continues in the deeper layers of the skin, firmness increases, and fine lines soften. While early improvements are visible within weeks, your most significant results will develop gradually over the next 3 to 6 months.