Clear + Brilliant® Laser Treatment

The latest trend in the beauty world is a natural, low-maintenance look, with celebrities and influencers alike showcasing their radiant, bare skin. While good skincare is essential for achieving clear, glassy skin, many of us need a little boost to reach these results. Many patients turn to laser treatments for facial rejuvenation, but are deterred by the downtime that lasers can require. Fortunately, the Clear + Brilliant laser can treat dark spots, texture issues, fine lines, pore size, and uneven skin tone with minimal downtime and no side effects. Dr. Green, one of the top cosmetic dermatologists in New York City, utilizes the Clear + Brilliant laser as part of her comprehensive arsenal of lasers for facial rejuvenation.

The Clear + Brilliant laser can address and prevent a variety of skin concerns in patients of all skin types and tones. Often called the “Mini-Fraxel,” the Clear + Brilliant laser creates thousands of controlled microscopic wounds in the skin, increasing its permeability to active ingredients like vitamin C. Clear + Brilliant® laser treatments also stimulate the skin’s natural wound-healing process and boost collagen production for firmer, more youthful, clearer skin. The new Clear + Brilliant Perméa handpiece enhances effectiveness in treating sun damage, pigmentation, and brown spots with minimal downtime. Using the Clear + Brilliant laser, Dr. Green can help patients achieve radiant, glowing, clear skin that makes them look and feel their best.

Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified dermatologist, is an expert in cosmetic dermatology with over 25 years of experience providing some of the world’s most selective men and women with the best non-invasive facial rejuvenation solutions. Dr. Green has consistently been recognized as one of New York’s top physicians by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times due to her expertise and dedication to her patients. She is known for her ‘less is more’ philosophy and holistic approach to skin revitalization treatments, resulting in natural-looking, long-lasting results. After discussing your specific skin concerns and personal cosmetic goals, Dr. Green will collaborate with you to develop a personalized skin treatment plan that includes the most suitable skincare and minimally invasive procedures to help you look and feel your best.

What is Clear + Brilliant?

Clear + Brilliant® is a non-ablative, non-invasive laser developed by Solta Medical, the maker of the Fraxel® laser. It is often referred to as the “mini-Fraxel” because it delivers results similar to those of the Fraxel laser without the downtime typically associated with traditional laser resurfacing. This FDA-cleared treatment has been clinically proven to be safe and effective for skin rejuvenation. Clear + Brilliant uses fractionated laser technology to create millions of tiny microscopic treatment zones, stimulating new collagen growth and replacing damaged skin. Since only a fraction of the skin is treated during each session, the surrounding skin remains unaffected, resulting in minimal or no downtime. An additional benefit of Clear + Brilliant is its ability to improve skin permeability. Immediately after treatment, Dr. Green can apply serums and antioxidants to enhance their absorption and effectiveness, as the skin becomes more permeable at this time. Dr. Green often uses her popular Vitamin C serum from the MGSKINLABs, Inc. product line to accelerate the skin rejuvenation process.

Patients appreciate Clear + Brilliant for its safety across all skin types and tones, its proven effectiveness, and its convenient scheduling. Since there is no downtime, patients can easily book a “lunchtime” session and return to their daily routine right afterward. Due to its fractionated laser technology, multiple sessions are often needed to achieve optimal cosmetic results. With Clear + Brilliant, patients can enjoy healthier-looking skin and a youthful glow that lasts.

What does Clear + Brilliant do?

Clear + Brilliant was FDA-approved in 2011 for treating visible signs of aging, sun damage, and improving skin texture. The Clear + Brilliant laser delivers fractional laser energy to the skin, boosting skin cell turnover and collagen production. Faster skin cell turnover helps replace dead, pigmented skin cells with new, healthy ones. By stimulating collagen, the Clear + Brilliant laser can treat a variety of skin conditions, including:

• Sunspots or age spots
• Sun damage
• Fine lines
• Pore size (large pores)
• Acne scars
• Melasma
• Uneven skin tone
• Uneven skin texture

How does Clear + Brilliant work?

The Clear + Brilliant laser is an excellent skin rejuvenation treatment designed for people seeking to achieve a brighter complexion, even skin tone and texture, and a youthful glow with minimal downtime. Clear + Brilliant uses fractional laser energy to create thousands of tiny injuries in the skin, triggering the body’s natural healing processes, including skin cell renewal and collagen production. This protein gives skin structure, firmness, and a youthful appearance. This method helps exfoliate superficial skin cells containing sun and age spots, making way for new, healthy skin with an even tone and texture. With each treatment, visible signs of aging, such as fine lines and dark spots, are reduced. The quick healing time and simple procedure make Clear + Brilliant® an ideal option for non-ablative laser skin resurfacing. While multiple sessions are recommended for best results, many patients see improvements in their skin tone and texture after just one treatment. Sessions are scheduled four weeks apart, and most patients reach their goals after five or six treatments.

What is the Clear + Brilliant Perméa laser?

The Clear + Brilliant laser has a second handpiece called the Perméa, which is effective for treating pigmentation, brown spots, sun spots, and melasma. The Perméa handpiece utilizes a 1927nm wavelength that is more effective at absorbing pigmentation. Since the Perméa handpiece depth is fixed at 170 nm, it targets the tissue where melanin is located. Perméa is safe for all skin types because it targets water, not other chromophores such as pigment or melanin. This can benefit patients with melasma, as traditional pigment-targeting lasers can worsen the condition. There is no additional downtime or side effects associated with using the Perméa handpiece for treatment.

In which areas of the body can you use the Clear + Brilliant laser treatment?

Clear + Brilliant can be used for skin rejuvenation on the face, neck, décolletage, arms, legs, back, or any other area of the body. Since there is no recovery time, this procedure can be performed at any time without worrying about resuming your normal daily activities. The Clear + Brilliant laser is a quick procedure, and many patients at Dr. Green’s office come in for a quick “lunchtime” skin rejuvenation treatment, then return to work immediately afterward.

What is the Clear + Brilliant laser good for?

Clear + Brilliant is a suitable option for individuals seeking a quick way to combat early signs of aging with minimal downtime. Over time, the skin can become dull and uneven due to environmental factors and the natural aging process. Clear + Brilliant helps improve overall skin tone and texture, reduces pore size, and diminishes fine lines and wrinkles. It is also effective for treating sun damage and uneven skin pigmentation before they get worse.

One benefit that patients like is the laser’s safety on all skin tones. Most laser treatments for skin issues that Clear + Brilliant targets are not safe for darker skin tones. Lasers such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), CO2 lasers, Fraxel, and Erbium YAG can cause or worsen hyperpigmentation and may even lead to scarring. Clear + Brilliant addresses this by using fractional energy that targets water, rather than pigment or melanin. This approach helps avoid triggering unwanted pigment changes. When the laser’s energy is absorbed by water in the skin, it creates tiny thermal injuries that stimulate the body’s natural healing process. This process enhances skin cell renewal and collagen production, resulting in a more youthful appearance. The microscopic injuries also make the skin more permeable, allowing active ingredients like vitamin C to penetrate deeper and work more effectively.

Who is a good candidate for Clear + Brilliant treatment?

One of the advantages of the Clear + Brilliant laser is that it is a gentle “colorblind” laser, making it suitable for patients of all skin types and tones, including those with darker complexions and sensitive skin. Many patients with darker skin tones cannot undergo Picosure, CO2, Fraxel, or other fractionated lasers due to the risk of unwanted side effects such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. These patients can now safely benefit from treatment with the Clear + Brilliant laser.

There are several contraindications to the Clear + Brilliant laser. Some of the most common include:

• Active infections, open wounds, cold sores, and inflammation.
• Diagnosis of a photosensitive autoimmune disease, such as Lupus or Scleroderma
• Sensitivity or disorder to UV light
• Propensity to keloid formation
• Current Isotretinoin (Accutane) treatment or within the past six months
• Irritation or peeling from previous laser procedures or chemical peels

If you are interested in Clear + Brilliant treatment and are unsure if you are a good candidate, consult with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green. During your initial consultation, she will review your medical history and aesthetic concerns to determine if Clear + Brilliant is right for you.

What is the process of the Clear + Brilliant treatment at Dr. Green’s dermatology office?

The first step in receiving a Clear + Brilliant treatment is scheduling a consultation with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in NYC. During your consultation, Dr. Green will review your medical history and evaluate your skin concerns to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Medical photographs will be taken to monitor your progress over time. The Clear + Brilliant treatment can be done on the same day as your consultation or on a different day.

To prepare for the treatment, Dr. Green will prescribe a topical numbing cream, which you can pick up from your local pharmacy. The cream should be applied to your skin one hour before your appointment to minimize discomfort. When you arrive at the office, the cream will be wiped off, and your skin will be cleaned before the treatment. Each session typically lasts approximately 15 minutes, although this may vary depending on the size of the area being treated. Dr. Green will use the Clear + Brilliant handpiece over the treatment area, adjusting the settings to suit your skin type and concerns. Afterward, a vitamin C serum will be applied to your face to take advantage of the increased skin permeability that results from the treatment. Dr. Green uses the Vita-C serum from her MGSKINLABS skincare line to deliver high concentrations of vitamin C to the skin.

What is the downtime for the Clear + Brilliant laser?

Clear + Brilliant is a gentle laser treatment that offers minimal downtime, thanks to its fractional laser technology. Immediately after the treatment, you may experience mild sunburn and some minor redness. This redness usually dissipates within 30 minutes and is not noticeable. The treated areas may feel like fine sandpaper, which isn’t visible to others. This rough, dry skin is part of the “micro-peeling” response of the skin to the Clear + Brilliant laser and can be easily improved by applying thick, hydrating moisturizers. Once this rough skin flakes off, new, healthy skin will be revealed. It is essential not to exfoliate or use retinoids immediately after your procedure. Applying vitamin C serum three times a day can help maximize the skin’s ability to absorb antioxidants and enhance the results of laser treatments. As with any laser treatment, it’s essential to avoid excessive sun exposure and to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 50 for the best protection. Any sun exposure following the treatment can undo the rejuvenating effects of the Clear + Brilliant laser.

What are the side effects of Clear + Brilliant?

The most common side effects of Clear + Brilliant include the following:

• Minimal erythema
• Minimal swelling

These side effects are mild and temporary, typically lasting only 30 minutes to 1 hour. Skin dryness may occur as the skin undergoes its exfoliating process, with many people describing the skin as feeling like “fine sandpaper” for a day after the Clear + Brilliant laser treatment. Dryness is improved by applying proper moisturizers and Vitamin C Serum.

Rare side effects of Clear + Brilliant include:

• Hyperpigmentation – the formation of dark patches or spots on the skin, often caused by excess melanin production during healing.
• Hypopigmentation – the appearance of lighter patches or spots on the skin due to reduced melanin in the treated area.
• Milia formation.
• Cold sore activation.
• Skin infections.

To avoid any adverse side effects from treatment, consult a board-certified dermatologist such as Dr. Michele Green. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience treating patients with non-invasive lasers, such as Clear + Brilliant, and has the expertise to select the right settings for your specific skin type and concerns.

Does Clear + Brilliant work?

Yes! Clear + Brilliant is FDA-cleared, meaning it has undergone thorough testing to meet federal safety and performance standards. It has been clinically shown to improve skin texture, tone, and dullness, helping you fight signs of aging. FDA clearance differs from FDA approval. FDA approval is typically reserved for Class III (high-risk) devices, whereas FDA clearance is generally granted for Class I (low-risk) and Class II (moderate-risk) devices. The FDA classifies the Clear + Brilliant laser as a Class II medical device.

What to expect after Clear + Brilliant laser

After one session of Clear + Brilliant, you’ll notice a visible improvement, with smoother, brighter skin. This initial treatment removes dead skin cells from the surface of the epidermis, providing an immediate radiant glow. More sessions are required to address pigmentation and fine lines. Future treatments stimulate new collagen production, resulting in ongoing improvement and helping your skin appear firmer and more youthful over time. Routine maintenance, performed every three to six months after initial treatments, helps maintain collagen renewal and ensures long-lasting results.

Does Clear + Brilliant hurt?

No, the Clear + Brilliant laser does not cause pain. Applying a topical anesthetic before the treatment will reduce any possible discomfort, ensuring a smooth and quick skin rejuvenation process. There is no discomfort after the procedure, and skin care products and makeup can be applied immediately afterward.

How often should I get Clear + Brilliant laser treatments?

To achieve optimal cosmetic results with Clear + Brilliant, a full series of treatments, usually 5 to 6 sessions, is recommended. These sessions should be spaced about two to four weeks apart. Many patients also return for maintenance treatments every three to six months to sustain the positive effects of these laser procedures.

How long does Clear + Brilliant last?

The Clear + Brilliant laser treatment yields results that can last for years, provided patients adhere to proper skin care and sun protection practices. Unprotected sun exposure can accelerate aging and lessen the benefits of Clear + Brilliant, which is why Dr. Green recommends wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 50, such as MGSKINLABS Hydrating SPF 50, whenever you go outside and reapply every two hours. Patients can schedule Clear + Brilliant treatments three to four times a year to maintain an even skin tone and texture, decrease the appearance of fine lines, and reduce sun damage.

What are the best skin care products to use with the Clear + Brilliant treatment?

Adhering to a proper skincare routine is essential for maintaining the positive results of Clear + Brilliant laser treatment. Dr. Green’s MGSKINLABS, Inc. line of products features cleansers, serums, and moisturizers targeted to treat a variety of skin types and concerns, including sun-damaged, sensitive, and mature skin. After treatment, using targeted skincare products is essential for maintaining and enhancing the treatment’s results. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will review your skincare routine and recommend products to help you keep a bright and radiant complexion.

One of the benefits of Clear + Brilliant treatment is that it increases the permeability of topical skincare products. Using antioxidants daily after treatment can help lengthen the results and improve the texture and tone of the skin. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps the skin fight free radical damage and environmental toxins, reduces hyperpigmentation, and increases the rate of skin cell turnover. Dr. Green’s Vita-C-Serum is packed with a high concentration of vitamin C to protect and improve the overall appearance of your skin.

Dr. Green often recommends a retinol cream to exfoliate the skin further, treat fine lines and enlarged pores, and stimulate collagen production. Retinol and retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that work to increase skin cell turnover rate, sloughing off dead, pigmented skin cells to reveal new, healthy cells underneath. Dr. Green’s Essential Antioxidant Infusion is an over-the-counter retinol that delivers a pure concentration of vitamins A, C, and E, as well as other antioxidants, to maximize new collagen production and create healthy, glowing skin. Patients looking for a more concentrated product can have a retinoid prescribed by a board-certified dermatologist.

As retinol and retinoids can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun, it is essential only to apply them at night and practice proper sun protection. Additionally, sun protection is essential for maintaining the treatment results and minimizing the risk of further sun damage to the skin. Patients should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 50 and reapply every two hours. Sunscreen should be worn even on cloudy or rainy days, as UV rays can penetrate clouds and reflect off of puddles and snow. For maximum protection, patients can layer both physical and chemical sunscreens on their skin. Physical sunscreens contain ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to create a protective barrier on the skin. Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients like octinoxate and avobenzone to convert UV rays into heat and reflect them from the body. Dr. Green’s Hydrating SPF 50 is a mineral-based sunscreen containing zinc oxide to protect the skin from UV damage. Its formulation also includes hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin, caffeine to soothe and calm the skin, and niacinamide to brighten discoloration.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Clear + Brilliant laser treatment:

What type of laser is Clear + Brilliant?

Clear + Brilliant is a noninvasive, nonablative laser that uses fractional energy to resurface the skin. Unlike ablative lasers, such as CO2 lasers, which remove the outer layer of skin and require several weeks of recovery, the Clear + Brilliant laser delivers energy to the deeper layers of the dermis, boosting skin cell turnover and stimulating collagen production. Since its fractional technology only treats part of the skin at a time, the surrounding areas remain unaffected, resulting in a faster recovery and minimal to no downtime. With Clear + Brilliant treatment, patients can expect clear, radiant skin that lasts.

What is the difference between Clear + Brilliant and Clear + Brilliant Permea?

The Clear + Brilliant system features two distinct handpieces, each designed to target specific skin concerns. The original handpiece operates at a wavelength of 1440 nm to address fine lines, pore size, and overall skin tone, with the goal of enhancing collagen production. The Permea handpiece operates at a wavelength of 1927 nm to treat pigmentation issues, such as sunspots and age spots, and to improve skin tone. Both options are excellent for skin rejuvenation and achieving a youthful glow. Neither handpiece is inherently better, as each focuses on different skin concerns. Based on your skin type and aesthetic goals, Dr. Green will choose either the original or the Permea handpiece. Both can be alternated during each treatment session for optimal results.

What does Clear + Brilliant do for your skin?

Like other types of laser resurfacing, Clear + Brilliant physically removes the damaged outer layers of the skin to reveal the healthy, glowing skin underneath. At the same time, the laser stimulates the production of new collagen, helping your skin look firmer and more youthful. Clear + Brilliant treatments are simple and gentle, designed to proactively address early signs of aging on your face, such as sun damage and fine lines, with minimal downtime afterward. The combination of quick, effective treatment and no recovery time makes Clear + Brilliant an ideal option for many patients. Another benefit of Clear + Brilliant is that it is a “colorblind” laser, meaning it can effectively treat all skin types and tones. Because it is gentle and does not rely on melanin, it is safe for use on even darker skin tones.

How often should I do Clear + Brilliant laser treatment?

Initially, most patients will need six treatment sessions, spaced 2-4 weeks apart, to achieve optimal results. Typically, five sessions are necessary, but the exact number depends on the treatment area and the patient’s aesthetic goals. After the initial treatments, routine maintenance can be done three to four times a year to preserve the best cosmetic results.

Does Clear + Brilliant stimulate collagen?

Yes! Clear + Brilliant laser utilizes fractional laser energy to create thousands of tiny, microscopic thermal injuries to the skin, stimulating the skin’s natural healing processes and increasing the production of new collagen. Not only does Clear + Brilliant improve the appearance of pore size, pigmentation, and fine acne scars, but it also improves the overall texture and surface of the skin.

Is Clear + Brilliant good for melasma?

Melasma is a skin condition characterized by brown, gray-brown, or dark-brown patches of skin that are darker than the surrounding skin. These blotchy patches are often found on the face, commonly on the upper lips, cheeks, bridge of the nose, and forehead. Melasma is not curable but can be treated with topical treatments and chemical peels. While some lasers can help treat melasma, many can actually exacerbate its appearance. When the wrong laser is used on melasma, the pigment can become further entrenched in the skin, making other forms of treatment less effective. If you are suffering from melasma and are looking for treatment, it is best to have an initial consultation with Dr. Green in her private NYC dermatology office. She will assess your melasma and skin type and determine the best treatment to help you achieve clear, even-toned skin.

Is the Clear + Brilliant laser safe for all skin tones?

Since Clear + Brilliant is a “colorblind laser,” all skin tones, including Caucasian, Asian, and Hispanic, can benefit from this treatment. The Clear + Brilliant laser is a gentle treatment that does not rely on melanin or pigment, but rather targets the water in the skin. Therefore, it is safe to use on darker skin tones for anti-aging and skin rejuvenation.

Are Fraxel and Clear + Brilliant the same?

Clear + Brilliant and Fraxel are two different lasers, both manufactured by Solta Medical. Clear + Brilliant is often referred to as a “mini-Fraxel” because it addresses similar skin concerns more gently. It is a mild fractional laser that creates thousands of small pinpoint injuries to the skin to boost natural regenerative processes, such as collagen production and skin cell turnover. The laser has two main settings: the Original 1440 nm handpiece, which stimulates collagen to reduce pore size, fine lines, and signs of aging, and the Permea 1927 nm handpiece, which works more superficially to treat pigmentation issues like sun spots and age spots. Since Clear + Brilliant is a gentle treatment, there is no downtime, and you can resume your usual activities immediately afterward. Its gentle nature makes it safe for all skin types and tones, including darker and Asian skin.

Fraxel Dual is a fractionated laser that creates thousands of controlled, precise micro-injuries to the skin, promoting the skin’s natural healing process. It has two distinct settings similar to Clear + Brilliant: the 1550 nm Erbium laser improves skin texture, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and diminishes stretch marks and acne scars; the 1927 nm Thulium laser targets pigmentation, discoloration, age spots, and sun damage. Since Fraxel penetrates deeper than Clear + Brilliant, mild downtime is common with treatments using the 1550 nm setting; some redness and swelling may persist for approximately 48 hours. When using the 1927 nm setting for pigmentation, redness lasts around 48 hours, followed by an additional 3-5 days of downtime during which the skin flakes off. Unlike Clear + Brilliant, Fraxel is not suitable for Asian or darker skin tones and should not be used to treat melasma, as it can worsen the condition.

Is the Clear + Brilliant laser better than Microneedling?

Clear + Brilliant is not inherently “better” than microneedling, as each treatment employs different methods for skin rejuvenation. Similar to the Clear + Brilliant treatment, microneedling can address fine lines, uneven skin texture and tone, discoloration, enlarged pores, and acne scars. Microneedling utilizes small, surgical-grade needles to create microscopic injuries in the skin, thereby stimulating the natural healing process and boosting collagen production. The microscopic channels also allow skincare products to penetrate more deeply, providing maximum benefits. Mild redness and swelling are common side effects of microneedling, which usually resolve within a few days. Because topical skincare products can more easily penetrate the skin, microneedling can be combined with a depigmentation serum to treat discoloration or with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to accelerate wound healing. PRP, extracted from the patient’s blood, is rich in growth factors and proteins essential for tissue regeneration and growth. It’s an excellent addition to microneedling treatments, further improving results.

Clear + Brilliant uses fractionated energy to heat the inner layers of the dermis, increasing skin cell turnover and stimulating the production of new collagen. It also improves the absorption of topical skincare products and is often combined with a vitamin C serum for overall skin rejuvenation. There is no downtime with Clear + Brilliant, allowing patients to resume their daily activities immediately after treatment. Many patients alternate between microneedling and Clear + Brilliant because they work together to create healthier, younger-looking skin. Both treatments target tone and texture by replacing damaged collagen to achieve a more youthful, healthier appearance.

What is better: IPL or Clear + Brilliant?

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Clear + Brilliant are two outstanding noninvasive laser treatments used in cosmetic dermatology. IPL therapy, also known as photorejuvenation, utilizes concentrated light wavelengths to address various skin concerns, including broken blood vessels, rosacea, pigmentation issues, sun spots, age spots, and fine lines. IPL can also be employed for laser hair removal. Depending on the light wavelength, pigment cells, hair follicles, or blood vessels absorb the energy and are destroyed. Clear + Brilliant uses fractionated energy to treat sun damage, discoloration, fine lines, uneven texture, tone, and enlarged pores. Instead of targeting chromophores like melanin or pigment, it targets water in the skin. This technology makes Clear + Brilliant a color-blind laser, making it safe and effective for all skin types and tones.

Compared to the Clear + Brilliant laser, IPL is neither better nor worse, as each method targets different skin concerns. If you worry about redness, rosacea, or broken capillaries, IPL can help improve these issues, while Clear + Brilliant cannot. However, it’s essential to note that IPL is not recommended for darker skin tones due to the concentration of melanin; Clear + Brilliant, on the other hand, is suitable for all skin types and tones. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will carefully evaluate your skin and aesthetic goals to recommend the most suitable laser treatment.

Can Clear + Brilliant exacerbate melasma?

Since the Clear + Brilliant laser is gentle, it should not worsen your melasma; however, it is not the best treatment for melasma. Typically, patients with melasma should avoid fractionated laser treatments, as these can exacerbate pigment in the skin, making melasma more difficult to treat. The risk of developing hyperpigmentation from Clear + Brilliant is low, since it is a very gentle laser. Still, any laser carries a risk of causing or worsening hyperpigmentation or triggering post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). For melasma, Dr. Green often recommends chemical peels, such as Mesopeels and Cosmelan peels, as the most effective options for removing facial melasma. If you have melasma, it’s best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, to see if Clear + Brilliant is the safest and most suitable treatment for you.

Does Clear + Brilliant tighten skin?

No. Clear + Brilliant is a highly effective treatment for various skin issues, including fine lines, pigmentation, sun damage, and enlarged pores. However, it is not intended for skin tightening. If skin laxity is your concern, Thermage FLX radiofrequency treatment is the preferred choice. Thermage is an advanced laser procedure that tightens and firms skin by stimulating new collagen production, a protein that supports a firm foundation and youthful appearance. The procedure is painless, takes less than an hour, and requires no downtime. Patients often notice an initial glow and plumpness after treatment. As collagen production increases, improvements in skin laxity are typically observed over three months. The effects of Thermage continue to improve for up to six months and can last for up to two years. Typically, one session is sufficient for a specific area, with annual maintenance treatments recommended to maintain and enhance the results. Many patients combine Thermage with other non-invasive skin rejuvenation options, such as Botox, dermal fillers, or skin resurfacing treatments like Clear + Brilliant laser, Fraxel Dual laser, VBeam for redness, or chemical peels. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will tailor a personalized treatment plan to address your concerns and help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

How much is Clear + Brilliant?

Several factors can affect the cost of treatment, including the geographic location of the office, the area of treatment, the number of sessions needed, and the provider’s level of expertise. Treatment in a metropolitan city is usually more expensive than in a suburban area. MedSpas often offer more affordable sessions than those of a board-certified dermatologist. However, it’s important to note that they may not always have the necessary expertise to ensure your laser treatment is both safe and effective for your specific skin type and concerns. Choosing an experienced provider is crucial, not only for ensuring safety but also for achieving optimal results. If you’re interested in the Clear + Brilliant treatment, it’s best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience treating patients with non-invasive treatments, such as the Clear + Brilliant laser. She will work with you to achieve clear, radiant skin with no adverse side effects.

Is Clear + Brilliant painful?

No, Clear + Brilliant is not a painful treatment. To prepare for a Clear + Brilliant session, Dr. Green will prescribe a topical anesthetic to be applied to the treatment area one hour before your appointment. The numbing cream will ensure that the treatment is not painful and minimize any discomfort.

Can I wear makeup after Clear + Brilliant laser treatment?

You can wear makeup as soon as your treatment is finished. First, Dr. Green applies a Vitamin C serum at the end of the Clear + Brilliant procedure to maximize its benefits and provide antioxidants to the skin, followed by sunscreen. There is no downtime, so you can resume normal activities right after your Clear + Brilliant treatment.

Can you work out after Clear + Brilliant?

It is best to refrain from working out for 24 hours after Clear + Brilliant laser treatment to reduce the risk of swelling, redness, and infection.

How long after Clear + Brilliant can I exfoliate?

Patients often ask, “When can I exfoliate after Clear and Brilliant?” After having treatment with the Clear + Brilliant laser, patients should wait three days before exfoliating. Following a treatment session, patients should adhere to a simple skincare regimen that consists of a gentle cleanser, a vitamin C serum, a nourishing moisturizer, and a protective sunscreen. When you undergo your Clear + Brilliant laser treatment with Dr. Michele Green in NYC, she will work with you to create a personalized skincare regimen that maximizes and prolongs your results following your non-invasive cosmetic treatments.

How long does Clear + Brilliant take?

A Clear + Brilliant session typically lasts about 15 minutes, although the exact time may vary depending on the size of the treatment area. It’s a quick and effective procedure that easily fits into a busy schedule. Since there is no downtime, patients can resume their normal activities immediately after the procedure.

Is Clear + Brilliant worth it?

Yes! Clear + Brilliant is highly popular because patients of all skin tones and types can undergo this treatment with no downtime. It refreshes and rejuvenates the complexion, giving patients a radiant, healthy glow that makes them look and feel their best. With minimal downtime and side effects, the accessibility of the Clear + Brilliant laser treatment is excellent, even for busy schedules. Dr. Michele Green in New York City often recommends Clear + Brilliant to her patients and is internationally recognized for her holistic approach and ‘less is more’ philosophy in skin rejuvenation.

How to get started with Clear + Brilliant today

Clear + Brilliant has become one of the most popular lasers at Dr. Michele Green’s NYC dermatology office. As demand for non-invasive cosmetic treatments grows, Clear + Brilliant remains a top choice for patients seeking a youthful, rejuvenated appearance with minimal downtime. Because of this, it is often referred to as a “lunchtime” procedure, designed to improve skin tone, reduce fine lines, and address visible signs of aging. The laser uses fractional energy to create thousands of tiny thermal injuries in the skin, stimulating natural healing processes to reveal healthy, new skin cells and a brighter complexion. The rate of skin cell turnover increases with this treatment, allowing the top layer of dead skin cells, which often contain dark spots, to be sloughed off and replaced by new, more even-toned cells. Clear + Brilliant is a color-blind laser, meaning patients of all skin types and tones can benefit from the treatment without significant risk of side effects. If you’re looking to address sun damage, sun spots, fine lines, acne scars, enlarged pores, or uneven skin texture or tone, Dr. Green can use the Clear + Brilliant laser to help you achieve healthy, radiant, clear skin.

Dr. Michele Green is a world-renowned board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience helping discerning men and women through non-invasive treatments, including the Clear + Brilliant laser. She is consistently recognized as one of New York’s top physicians by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times. She carefully personalizes a treatment plan for each patient after a thorough consultation, which includes an in-depth discussion of their skin concerns and cosmetic goals. Dr. Green employs a skillful approach to cosmetic dermatology, utilizing a holistic method for facial rejuvenation that yields a natural, radiant, and youthful appearance. If you want to improve or enhance your skin and reverse the visible signs of aging with minimal downtime and side effects, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green by contacting us online today or calling us at 212-535-3088