Clear + Brilliant^® Laser Treatment in San Francisco

Clear + Brilliant^® is the least invasive Fraxel^® laser skin rejuvenation treatment. It combines the laser light with a topical antioxidant formula to improve the appearance and condition of your skin. Often referred to as “baby Fraxel^®,” Clear + Brilliant^® is a popular fractional laser resurfacing option for patients throughout San Francisco who want brighter, smoother skin with minimal downtime.

The antioxidant increases skin permeability, which means your skin will absorb more of its nutrients. The laser device targets only the damaged skin while leaving the surrounding skin intact. As a result, the treatment requires almost no downtime.

Clear + Brilliant^® can be used to treat a variety of concerns, including::

At Dermatology Medical Group of San Francisco, all consultations and treatments, including Clear + Brilliant^®, are done by our registered nurse under the supervision of our doctors. While the face and neck are the most common areas for Clear + Brilliant^® treatment, it can be used on almost any area of the body.

The effects of Clear + Brilliant^® laser treatment last about six months. You may require a few treatments to achieve optimal results, especially if you have scars or pigmentation issues. The average patient receives four to six treatments scheduled two weeks apart.

What Can You Expect During Clear + Brilliant^® Treatment?

After cleansing your skin and applying a numbing cream, our registered nurse will pass a handheld device over the areas to be treated. The numbing cream will need at least a half hour to take effect, and the Clear + Brilliant^® treatment itself takes less than a half hour.

You might still feel a slight stinging and heat sensation, but Clear + Brilliant^® is gentler than other lasers. Because Clear + Brilliant^® delivers fractional laser energy in a series of tiny, controlled micro-treatment zones, it is often described as a gentler alternative to more aggressive resurfacing lasers like full-strength Fraxel^®.

What Can You Expect During Recovery From Clear + Brilliant^®?

One of the advantages of Clear + Brilliant^® is that any post-treatment redness is usually gone within 12 hours. Within a few days, your skin will be softer, smoother, brighter, and with more even skin tone. If your skin peels for a day or two, however, don’t be alarmed. This is a normal after-effect that a few patients experience. Lasers make your skin more vulnerable to sunburn, so you must always wear sunscreen when outdoors.

Do you think Clear + Brilliant^® might be right for you? Call us today for an appointment. Contact Dermatology Medical Group of San Francisco today to schedule your Clear + Brilliant^® consultation.

Clear + Brilliant^® FAQs

What should you avoid after Clear + Brilliant^®?

Don’t use Retin A, Refissa, Tazorac, Differin, any exfoliant, or other skincare products containing salicylic acid or glycolic for two days before or five days after your Clear + Brilliant^® treatment. Avoid the sun and tanning beds for ten days before treatment. Wear sunscreen daily. If you have a history of cold sores, inform us during your consultation so that we can prescribe preventative treatment with Valtrex. You will take two pills the morning of treatment.

How long is Clear + Brilliant^® recovery?

Recovery takes about a week. You will start to notice your skin will feel softer, look brighter, and show a more even tone. Results are long-lasting depending on your age, skin condition, and how well you care for your skin.

Do you peel after Clear + Brilliant^®?

Clear + Brilliant^® fortifies an enhanced complexion without interrupting daily activities. Patients typically experience some redness at the treatment site for a few hours rather than days or weeks from other devices. And recovery doesn’t include any skin peeling.

How do I prepare for Clear + Brilliant^®?

Stop applying all active skincare products (like Retinol) two weeks before treatment. However, moisturize your skin leading up to the day of your Clear + Brilliant^® treatment session and use any exfoliating products we recommend.

Is Clear + Brilliant^® painful?

Clear + Brilliant^® is a quick and convenient treatment with minimal discomfort. However, Fraxel^® treatments can cause some distress as the laser penetrates the skin deeper. Therefore, a numbing cream is applied for both treatments before the laser is administered.

Can I shower after Clear + Brilliant^®?

The day after the Clear + Brilliant^® treatment, you can shower. We advise you to use a gentle cleanser and moisturize daily.

How long does it take to see results?

Facial improvements start within five days and three weeks for results on the neck, arms, hands, or chest.

What is the difference between Clear + Brilliant^® and Fraxel^®?

Clear + Brilliant^® is a gentler, lower-intensity version of Fraxel^® laser resurfacing, sometimes called “baby Fraxel^®.” It is designed for patients with early signs of sun damage and aging who want a preventative, low-downtime treatment, while full-strength Fraxel^® is typically reserved for more advanced skin concerns.

Am I a good candidate for Clear + Brilliant^®?

Good candidates are patients with early signs of sun damage, fine lines, enlarged pores, or uneven skin tone who want a gentle, low-downtime laser treatment. Our registered nurse and doctors will evaluate your skin during a consultation to confirm whether Clear + Brilliant^® is right for you.

How many Clear + Brilliant^® treatments will I need?

Most patients benefit from a series of treatments to achieve their best results. The average patient receives 4 to 6 sessions spaced about two weeks apart, though your provider will recommend a specific plan based on your skin and goals.

Can Clear + Brilliant^® be used on skin other than the face?

Yes. While the face and neck are the most commonly treated areas, Clear + Brilliant^® can be used on almost any area of the body, including the chest, arms, and hands.

Is Clear + Brilliant^® safe for all skin tones?

Clear + Brilliant^® is designed to be a gentle, low-downtime treatment, but every patient’s skin responds differently to laser energy. Our team will review your skin type and history during your consultation to determine whether Clear + Brilliant^® is an appropriate and safe option for you.

Can Clear + Brilliant^® be combined with other treatments?

Many patients combine Clear + Brilliant^® with other skincare or cosmetic treatments as part of a broader skin rejuvenation plan. Our providers can discuss which combinations may be appropriate for your goals during your consultation.

Will I need to take time off work after Clear + Brilliant^®?

Most patients do not need to take time off, since redness typically resolves within about 12 hours and there is no significant downtime. Some patients prefer to schedule treatment before a day off in case of mild redness or occasional peeling.

How much does Clear + Brilliant^® cost?

The cost of Clear + Brilliant^® varies depending on the number of sessions recommended and the areas treated. Our team can provide a personalized cost estimate during your consultation.