Clear + Brilliant Aftercare and Skincare

As we age, the production of the structural proteins collagen and elastin begins to decrease, leading to increased skin laxity, uneven skin texture, and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Overexposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays can cause sun damage in the form of hyperpigmentation, sunspots, and uneven skin tone. While these signs of natural aging are common, some patients may feel self-conscious and seek a way to reverse them. Luckily, many non-surgical treatment options are available at Dr. Michele Green’s New York City dermatology office to help patients achieve smooth, clear, youthful-looking skin. One such treatment is the Clear + Brilliant fractional laser, which provides excellent results with no side effects and no downtime.

The Clear + Brilliant laser is a safe and effective treatment option for patients of all skin tones and types. By creating controlled microinjuries below the dermal layer of the skin, the Clear + Brilliant laser targets specific skin concerns without removing the outer layer of the skin or damaging the surrounding tissue. The wavelengths of laser energy boost collagen production and increase skin cell turnover, resulting in smoother, clearer skin. Used to address a wide range of skin concerns, including pigment, dark spots, fine lines, large pores, and uneven skin texture, the Clear + Brilliant laser is not associated with serious side effects or significant downtime. Treatment results can be improved when patients combine Clear + Brilliant laser treatment with effective skincare, including vitamin C serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Following your treatment session, Dr. Green’s office will provide clear instructions for aftercare after your Clear + Brilliant laser treatment.

Experienced board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green has been expertly treating patients at her Upper East Side, New York City dermatology office for more than 25 years. Dr. Green is an expert in many anti-aging cosmetic treatments, including chemical peels, microneedling, microdermabrasion, IPL laser hair removal, and injectable treatments, such as Botox and dermal fillers. With treatments for many skin conditions available at her office and her proprietary line of skin care products, Dr. Green increases accessibility to a youthful-looking appearance for all her patients. Well-known for high patient satisfaction, Dr. Green has been frequently voted one of New York City’s best dermatologists by publications such as Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors.

What is Clear + Brilliant laser treatment?

The Clear + Brilliant laser is a highly effective treatment for a range of cosmetic concerns, including dark spots, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone, large pores, and uneven skin texture. Unlike some traditional lasers, the Clear + Brilliant laser is non-ablative, meaning that it does not remove the outer layer of skin during treatment. Instead, the Clear + Brilliant laser targets the inner layer of the skin, the dermis, to boost collagen production and increase skin cell turnover. FDA-approved for treating visible signs of aging, sun damage, and uneven skin texture, the Clear + Brilliant laser is safe and effective for patients of all skin types. While other lasers can be dangerous for patients with darker skin tones, the Clear + Brilliant laser is safe for use because it targets water in the skin rather than melanin specifically. The Clear + Brilliant laser is also advantageous because it requires no downtime following the procedure.

How does Clear + Brilliant fractional laser treatment work?

The Clear + Brilliant laser uses fractionated laser technology to improve skin texture and tone, and reduce the appearance of other signs of the natural aging process. When applied to the treatment area, the Clear + Brilliant laser emits a wavelength of laser energy that penetrates the dermal layer of the skin and creates thousands of micro-injuries in the tissue. These small wounds trigger the body’s natural healing process, which naturally increases collagen production and skin cell turnover, reducing pigmentation, fine lines, and pore size on the skin’s surface. The Clear + Brilliant laser has two settings: 1440 nm, used to address fine lines, pore size, and overall skin tone, and 1927 nm, used to treat pigmentation issues, such as sunspots. Since only a fraction of the skin is treated during each session, the surrounding skin remains unaffected, and the results continue to improve over time.

The first step in receiving Clear + Brilliant laser treatment is to schedule a consultation with expert, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. During your consultation, you will discuss your treatment goals, and Dr. Green will recommend the treatment—or series of treatments—that best meets your needs. If the Clear + Brilliant laser is included in your treatment plan, Dr. Green will prescribe a topical numbing cream that should be applied to the treatment area one hour before arriving at Dr. Green’s office. When you arrive, she will clean and mark the area to prepare for the treatment. Once the area is prepared, Dr. Green will start her pass with the Clear + Brilliant laser. Typically, treatment takes about 15 minutes, though the time may vary depending on the size of the treatment area.

What is the best aftercare for Clear + Brilliant?

The Clear + Brilliant laser is advantageous because it does not require downtime after the procedure and carries a minimal risk of serious side effects. Immediately after treatment, patients may experience redness and irritation, similar to a minor sunburn. The redness and discomfort should dissipate within 30 minutes, and patients can apply ice packs or a cold compress during this time. Some patients may experience more intense side effects, including blistering, but this is uncommon. Other post-care treatment instructions include avoiding excessive heat for 24 hours post-treatment, including saunas, intense exercise, hot tubs, and direct sunlight. Dr. Green will also recommend the best skincare regimen and products to use following the treatment.

What are the best skincare products to use in the first week post-treatment to support the healing process?

Following a proper skincare regimen can greatly improve the healing process in the first week post-treatment and beyond. Choosing unscented cleansers, moisturizers, lotions, and creams suitable for sensitive skin will help reduce redness and irritation in the treatment area. Keep reading below for specific recommendations from Dr. Green.

Gentle cleanser

Dr. Green recommends that patients begin their skincare routine with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, sweat, makeup, and other debris from the skin. Patients should use their cleanser in the morning and at night to clear their skin. After Clear + Brilliant fractional laser treatment, Dr. Green recommends an unscented cleanser, as scented cleansers can irritate the skin.

Exfoliants to slough off dead skin cells

While exfoliants are very useful for sloughing off dead skin cells and boosting skin cell turnover, after the Clear + Brilliant treatment, patients should wait at least 3 days before using exfoliants. The skin in the treated area is often sensitive following Clear + Brilliant treatment, so it is essential to wait before exfoliating to avoid further irritation.

Retinoids (eg, Retin A) for increased collagen production

Dr. Green advises patients to wait at least 1 week after Clear + Brilliant treatment before using topical retinoids on the treated area. However, once the skin has healed, 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 increase skin cell turnover, 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, along with other antioxidants, to maximize 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 to apply them only at night and to practice proper sun protection.

Vitamin C to address pigment and fine lines

Immediately following the Clear + Brilliant treatment, Dr. Green often applies a vitamin C serum, as the treatment increases skin permeability, enhancing absorption of serums and toners. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage and reduces the appearance of pigmentation and dark spots. When applied to the skin’s surface, Vitamin C can help reduce signs of aging by reducing collagen breakdown and reversing UV damage. Dr. Green has her proprietary line of skin care products, MGSKINLABs, and her Vitamin C serum is among the most popular products. Topical vitamin C serums can be added to a patient’s skincare routine to lighten dark spots and protect the skin from free radicals.

Moisturizer to hydrate and address dryness and flaking

Patients may find that their skin feels especially dry and flaky after the Clear + Brilliant laser treatment. Dr. Green advises that patients avoid exfoliating the skin for a couple of days post-treatment. To address flaking skin, patients can apply a thick moisturizer or cream. Products containing ingredients such as ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid can help retain moisture in the treated area, reduce redness, and strengthen the skin barrier. Dr. Green recommends that patients look for products labeled “for sensitive skin” from brands like CeraVe, Cetaphil, Aveeno, and Neutrogena, or Dr. Green’s proprietary line of skincare products, MGSKINLABs.

Sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for sun protection

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 an SPF of at least 30 and reapply every 2 hours. Sunscreen should be worn even on cloudy or rainy days, as UV rays can pass through the clouds and reflect off of puddles and snow. For maximum protection, patients can layer both physical and chemical sunscreens. 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.

What not to do before Clear + Brilliant

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 unsure whether you are a good candidate, consult a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green.

What to put on your face after Clear + Brilliant

Immediately after the Clear + Brilliant laser treatment, Dr. Green often applies a vitamin C serum to the treated area. Clear + Brilliant treatment increases the skin’s permeability, meaning that anything applied to the skin’s surface will absorb better. Applying vitamin C serum helps improve antioxidant absorption and enhance treatment results.

How long after Clear + Brilliant can I wash my face/use makeup?

No downtime is required after the Clear + Brilliant laser treatment, so that patients can return to their regular activities immediately. Dr. Green recommends that patients avoid wearing makeup for 24 hours after the procedure. Twenty-four hours after treatment, patients can resume their regular makeup and face-washing routine. Dr. Green suggests that patients use a gentle, unscented cleanser after a Clear + Brilliant treatment to avoid further irritation.

How long should you avoid direct sun exposure on the treated area after Clear + Brilliant?

To prevent future damage to the skin’s surface and extend the treatment’s longevity, it is essential to practice strict sun avoidance in the weeks after the Clear+Brilliant laser treatment. Clear + Brilliant laser treatment can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun, making patients more likely to get a sunburn in the weeks after treatment. Sun-damaged skin can accentuate other signs of natural aging, including fine lines and wrinkles, loose skin, and volume loss. As such, Dr. Green recommends applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning before leaving the house—even when it’s cloudy or raining.

How do you get the best results from Clear + Brilliant?

The most effective way to maintain the best results from Clear + Brilliant laser treatment is to practice strict sun protection. To do so, Dr. Green recommends applying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 as the last step in your morning skincare routine, and reapplying every two hours, or immediately after sweating heavily or swimming. Be sure to seek a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. For skin that is particularly sensitive to the sun, Dr. Green may recommend a combination of a chemical sunscreen that rubs in smoothly and a physical sunscreen containing ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide. Physical sunscreen sits on the skin’s surface, forming a physical barrier against the sun’s rays. The best way to achieve healthy skin and reduce the signs of aging is to avoid tanning beds and unprotected exposure to UV radiation.

How much time between Clear + Brilliant treatments?

The Clear + Brilliant laser treatment provides patients with results that can last for years with the proper skin care and sun avoidance. To maintain the procedure’s results, Dr. Green recommends scheduling Clear + Brilliant treatments every 3 to 6 months. Initially, most patients will require several treatment sessions spaced 3-4 weeks apart to obtain optimal results. On average, five treatment sessions are necessary, but the exact number depends on the treatment area and the patient’s aesthetic goals. Following the initial round of treatments, routine maintenance can be performed three to four times a year.

Why does the skin feel rough after Clear + Brilliant?

In the days following the Clear + Brilliant treatment, the skin may feel rough, like sandpaper, though this typically is not visible to others. The rough, dry texture of the skin is part of the “micro-peeling” process, in which dead skin cells slough off, increasing skin cell turnover for smoother, more evenly toned skin. While this micro-peeling is occurring, patients should apply thick, hydrating moisturizers to keep the skin clean and hydrated.

How many layers of skin does laser resurfacing remove?

Unlike more traditional lasers, the Clear + Brilliant laser is non-ablative, meaning it does not remove any layers of skin. Ablative lasers will vaporize the outer layers of skin to promote new collagen production and stimulate skin cell turnover. In comparison, non-ablative lasers like the Clear + Brilliant laser use wavelengths of laser energy to penetrate the inner layers of the skin while leaving the surrounding tissue unaffected. While ablative lasers may provide more dramatic results, the downtime is much more significant, and the risk of side effects is greater. The Clear + Brilliant laser provides excellent, comparable results without downtime or the risk of significant side effects.

How to speed up Clear + Brilliant healing

Patients often wonder, “How to speed up healing after Clear + Brilliant?” The best way to speed up healing after a Clear + Brilliant laser treatment is to follow Dr. Green’s aftercare instructions. Dr. Green recommends that patients keep the treated area clear by washing with a gentle cleanser twice a day, morning and night. Applying a vitamin C serum three times a day can help strengthen the skin barrier, enhance antioxidant absorption, and accelerate healing. The Clear + Brilliant laser treatment can cause dry, flaky skin, so using a moisturizer is very important. To maintain treatment results and prevent further skin damage, Dr. Green advises patients to always wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

How to layer Clear + Brilliant for the best results

Clear + Brilliant laser treatment can be paired with other treatments to enhance the appearance of the skin and achieve more dramatic results. Some such treatment options are as follows:

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable treatments used for multiple cosmetic purposes, including reversing volume loss, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, such as nasolabial folds, contouring the face, and augmenting the lips, jawline, or cheeks. Dermal filler treatment can be used on the hands and across many areas of the face, including under the eyes, in the cheeks, around the nose and mouth, in the lips, and along the chin and jawline. With a wide variety of formulations and active ingredients, dermal fillers can safely address a range of cosmetic concerns, providing patients with smooth, contoured, youthful-looking skin. A non-invasive treatment, dermal fillers require no downtime after injections, allowing patients to resume their regular activities immediately. Dermal fillers are often paired with Clear + Brilliant treatment to address volume loss and sagging skin simultaneously.

Chemical Peels

A chemical peel is a cosmetic procedure that uses an acid-based solution applied to the skin’s surface to exfoliate damaged cells and promote skin cell turnover, revealing smooth, clear, evenly textured skin. There are many types of chemical peels, ranging in concentration and active ingredients, that can serve different skincare functions. Depending on the type of chemical peel used, the treatment can address active acne outbreaks, reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation (such as dark spots, age spots, and melasma), and improve skin tone and texture. As a highly effective and adaptable treatment, chemical peels rank among the top five most popular cosmetic treatments in the United States.

Microneedling

Microneedling is a popular treatment at Dr. Green’s office that boosts collagen production through controlled micro-injuries. The microneedling handheld device consists of many tiny surgical-grade needles that pierce the skin to trigger the body’s natural healing response, stimulating new collagen production for smoother, more evenly textured skin. Dr. Green often combines microneedling with platelet-rich plasma treatment, rich in growth factors, to improve healing. Most patients require 3-6 treatment sessions for the best results.

Thermage

Thermage is a non-invasive, FDA-approved skin-tightening treatment that uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to achieve skin rejuvenation results with minimal downtime. An inevitable part of the aging process is a decrease in the production of elastin and collagen. Collagen and elastin are proteins naturally produced by the body that provide the skin with a firm foundation and elasticity. As collagen and elastin are depleted, the result is visible fine lines and wrinkles, crepey skin, and loss of skin elasticity. For patients seeking to minimize sagging skin and combat the visible signs of aging, Thermage treatment is an excellent option for skin tightening. Thermage skin tightening treatment provides tighter, firmer, and smoother skin, softens fine lines and wrinkles, and helps you look younger without plastic surgery by boosting your body’s natural collagen fiber production. The Thermage procedure can be used nearly anywhere on the face or body, including the décolletage, the jowls, neck, chest, upper arms, abdomen, thighs, and buttocks, for a non-surgical “lift” effect that firms and tightens loose skin.

How to get started with Clear + Brilliant treatment today

Clear + Brilliant is a gentle, non-ablative fractional laser that refreshes the complexion and helps prevent and correct early signs of aging. By creating thousands of microscopic injuries in the upper layers of the skin, Clear + Brilliant stimulates new collagen production. It accelerates skin cell turnover to improve tone, texture, and overall radiance. It is ideal for concerns such as fine lines, enlarged pores, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and uneven skin texture, and is safe for all skin types, with minimal discomfort and no downtime required. Clear + Brilliant can also be incorporated into a broader rejuvenation plan and combined with complementary treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, and Thermage to enhance and maintain your results. During your consultation, Dr. Green will evaluate your skin, discuss your cosmetic goals, and create a personalized Clear + Brilliant treatment and aftercare plan to help you achieve and sustain a smooth, even, youthful-looking complexion.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing her patients with the best non-invasive treatment options. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy, creating customized skincare routines and treatment plans tailored to her patients’ unique concerns and aesthetic goals. She is consistently recognized by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors as one of New York’s best dermatologists for her dedication to her patients and expertise. Please call us at 212-535-3088 or email our New York City-based office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michele Green and learn whether Clear + Brilliant laser treatment is the best treatment for you.