Clear + Brilliant®️ Laser Treatment in NYC

Although aging is an inevitable part of life, you don’t have to accept wrinkles, sagging skin, crow’s feet, or other visible signs of aging. Many treatment options are available to help keep you looking and feeling young, rejuvenated, and vibrant. 

Of these treatments, Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments is performed by our licensed and highly trained professionals. It has been shown to reduce the size and appearance of facial wrinkles and pores while improving the texture and tone of your skin. 

If you have been feeling insecure or unhappy about your appearance, or simply wish for smoother, more youthful-looking skin, our Clear + Brilliant Treatment may be the right choice for you. 

What is Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment?

Laser skin treatments have been around for years, but they have not always been suitable for all skin types or skin tones, and in many cases, the treatment itself is considered uncomfortable. 

The new technology that we use with our Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments eliminates many of these concerns. The treatment itself takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour in most cases, however, some treatments may take less time or longer depending on a variety of factors. 

The Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment can help reduce unsightly hyperpigmentation, dark spots, the presence of acne and acne scars, wrinkles, crow’s feet, uneven textures, sun damage, and the size of facial pores. 

In addition, these treatments can be performed on the neck, face, hands, chest, and virtually any part of your skin that you are unhappy with. This incredible versatility makes it an excellent choice for people with extensive sun damage, although almost anyone can benefit from the treatment.   

How Does Clear + Brilliant Differ From Traditional Laser Procedures?

If you’ve looked into Laser skin treatments in the past, then you’re probably familiar with the Fraxel procedure. Fraxel has been the industry standard since 2004, until 2011 when Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment was approved for use by the FDA. 

Although it was approved in 2011, Clear + Brilliant did not become the standard until the past few years when its benefits significantly outweighed those of Fraxel treatments. Not all dermatologists are licensed to use this newer technology, however, and it is important to do your own research before getting the treatment done. 

Both laser treatments are non-invasive procedures that work by creating extremely small microabrasions on the surface of the skin that serves to boost elastin and collagen production. In turn, the damaged skin is replaced with new, healthier, smoother, and firmer skin. 

Because both laser treatments are ablative, the skin in both cases grows back looking years younger. The main difference between the two procedures is the recovery time, discomfort level of the treatment, and which skin types and tones they work better for. 

Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment is more effective for a much wider range of skin tones and causes significantly less trauma to the skin than its predecessor Fraxel. This reduces recovery time and discomfort, and in many cases, Clear + Brilliant is the more affordable option. 

Are Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments Safe?

Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment is considered extremely safe when performed by a trained and qualified medical professional. It has been in use for over 10 years and has been performed 2.5 million times, and there have been 15 peer-reviewed studies on its safety and efficacy. 

It is gentler than other types of laser treatments and non-invasive unlike surgical rejuvenation options such as facelifts. The majority of patients experience no side effects or downtime after their procedure, and can immediately resume normal activities. No medical procedure is 100% without risk, however. 

Your doctor will discuss your treatment plan and options with you prior to your first laser treatment session. During this consultation, they will ask you about your medical history, allergies, and past experience with cosmetic treatments. 

While most people are suitable candidates for Clear + Brilliant laser treatments, you may not be eligible if you have the following health conditions:

  • Rosacea
  • Melasma
  • Acne requiring Accutane treatment within the past 12 months
  • Predisposition for Keloid scarring
  • Skin cancer
  • Taking certain medications
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Lesions or open wounds on the treatment area
  • Compromised immune system 

It is important to be completely honest with your doctor about your past and current medical history so that they can make the proper recommendations for your treatment options. 

Who is Clear + Brilliant Laser Right For?

Most patients that are interested in Clear + Brilliant laser treatments are good candidates for the procedure. All genders, ages, and skin types are eligible for the treatment, and the ideal candidate is interested in rejuvenating their skin and achieving a younger and healthier look. 

Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment is ideal for people with: 

  • Oily skin
  • Acne
  • Visible signs of aging
  • Hyperpigmentation
  • Large pores
  • Redness
  • Wrinkles, crow’s feet, frown lines
  • Bags under their eyes
  • Blotchy skin

This laser treatment is safe and effective for virtually anyone who is looking to battle the effects of aging and sun damage. Unlike other types of laser treatments, such as Fraxel, Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments are able to be performed on all skin types and tones, and are equally effective on darker skin tones. 

People who maintain a healthy skin care regimen put sunscreen on when outdoors, and make the effort to maintain their skin health will see the most dramatic difference with Clear + Brilliant laser treatments. 

What Does Clear + Brilliant Treat?

Like other facial rejuvenation procedures, Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments are designed to help reduce the visible signs of aging, sun damage, and unsightly blemishes and discoloration. This treatment option is effective for people of all skin types and tones. 

It works equally well on patients with darker complexions – unlike other laser treatments such as Fraxel. In addition, because the procedure is non-invasive, there is typically no downtime associated with the treatment. 

Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments are extremely gentle and are appropriate for all genders and most people over the age of 20. It is more effective at treating the early signs of aging, and may not be as effective on deep-set or ingrained wrinkles. 

In addition, because it is non-invasive, Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments will not help sagging skin or extremely dark age spots and it will not do anything to tighten your skin. For these concerns, other treatment options such as face-lifts are available, although they are invasive. 

Clear + Brilliant is the perfect solution for frown lines, crow’s feet, early wrinkles, large pores, acne, oily skin, under-eye bags, redness, splotchiness, and sun damage. Make an appointment for a consultation today and our highly trained doctors will be able to tell you exactly how Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments can benefit you.

How Much Does Clear + Brilliant Laser Cost?

On average, Clear + Brilliant Laser treatments can range anywhere from $175-$750 per treatment. The reason for the large difference is that there are two separate laser treatments that we can use depending on what type of treatment you need. 

One treatment option is better for treating hyperpigmentation, discoloration, and sun damage whereas the other is more effective at treating wrinkles, large pores, and signs of aging. 

Another factor that can affect the cost of your treatments is the size of the treatment area. For example, having treatments done on your chest will cost significantly more than your face or hands simply due to surface area. 

Another thing to consider is if you decide to add any extra treatments such as Dermal fillers or Botox injections to your appointment. Adding these extras will raise the cost of your visit. 

Finally, we occasionally run deals or specials that can lower the total cost of your treatments. This may be the case if you purchase your treatments in advance, get multiple areas done at once, or many other factors. Be sure to ask if we have any current specials going on when you call to book your appointment!

How To Prepare For a Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment

Although the procedure for getting a Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment is relatively easy, there are some things to be mindful of in the weeks leading up to your appointment. By following these recommendations, you can ensure that you will get the best possible results from your treatments. 

It’s important to avoid sun exposure for two weeks before your appointment. If you must go outside, be sure that you are wearing adequate sun protection including sunscreen and protective clothing. As an extension of this, do not go to tanning salons during this time. 

For a week before your appointment, do not use any skincare products that contain the following ingredients:

  • Glycolic acid
  • Salicylic acid
  • Retinoids
  • Acne medications
  • Exfoliating scrubs

For two weeks before your appointment, avoid certain skin care procedures on the treatment area including:

  • Laser hair removal
  • Waxing
  • Microdermabrasion
  • Chemical peels

Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you have ever had or are prone to fever blisters, cold sores, or if you have ever had Herpes Simplex in the past. We may be able to provide you with a preventative medication to reduce your risk of an outbreak. 

Additionally, if your skin is damaged from prior treatments, or if your skin is irritated or damaged, such as from a severe sunburn, wait until you are fully healed before you make an appointment. 

Finally, on the day of your appointment, make sure that you are well-hydrated and that you have eaten something recently. We also recommend that you remove any makeup prior to your appointment or avoid makeup entirely, otherwise we will remove it when you arrive. 

If you have any questions or additional concerns, reach out to your doctor prior to your appointment. 

How Long Do Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments Take?

When you arrive for your treatment, we will prep your skin for the procedure. This consists of removing any makeup that you may be wearing, cleaning your face with an alcohol solution, and applying a numbing cream that we will leave for approximately 20 minutes. 

Once the numbing cream has had a chance to work, we will clean your face again with an alcohol solution to remove it and ensure that there is no residue on your face. Then we will begin the procedure. 

The Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment itself takes 15-30 minutes on the face, arms, and hands. For larger areas, such as the chest, the procedure could take longer. 

On average, from start to finish and with aftercare instructions, a Clear + Brilliant Laser treatment will take 30-45 minutes. Because there is no downtime associated with the procedure, most people are able to get the procedure done on their lunch break and return immediately to work. 

Does Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment Hurt?

Most patients feel no pain or discomfort during the procedure. We take the time to apply a numbing cream to the treatment area to ensure that our patients do not feel any pain. Most patients report feeling a slight tickling or prickling sensation during the treatment. 

After your treatment, the treatment area may feel flushed, red, or like a mild sunburn for 20-30 minutes. There should be no lasting discomfort or pain after this time period, but we still recommend being gentle and to avoid rubbing or scrubbing the area for at least a week. 

If you feel anything more serious than the above, reach out to your doctor for advice. 

Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment Aftercare

The most important thing to remember after your Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment is to allow the skin to heal by itself. Do not pick, peel, scratch, scrub, or rub the affected area for at a week after your treatment. In addition, avoid using any facial products or cleansers that contain retinol or exfoliants. 

Try to stay out of the sun for at least a week, and even after that time period ensure that you are consistently wearing sunscreen of at least SPF 50. This will help prevent future sun damage to your skin and will allow it to keep its healthy glow. 

If possible, try to avoid working out or anything that will cause skin flushing for at least 2 days after your treatment. Some patients may also find it beneficial to place cooling packs on the treatment area throughout the first 24 hours post-procedure. 

For the first week, avoid drinking alcohol, smoking, swimming, applying makeup, and exposure to heat and sun. This is because your skin may be sensitive during this period and all of these things can severely irritate the new skin that will be growing which will keep you from getting the best results. 

How Long Does It Take To Recover From Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments?

For most patients, there is no downtime associated with our Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments. Because the procedure is non-invasive there are no incisions and there is no need for sedative anesthesia. 

Rather than using anesthesia, we apply a topical numbing cream to the regions that will be treated. Thanks to this the procedure is completely painless, and our patients typically describe the feeling as a prickling or tingling sensation. 

The procedure itself takes 20-30 minutes, and you may notice some redness similar to a mild sunburn for approximately 20 minutes after the procedure. The redness should subside shortly after your treatment, and in most cases, you will be able to go right back to work or resume normal activities. 

Can I Wear Makeup After A Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment?

We recommend that you avoid wearing makeup for at least 24 hours after your procedure. If possible, avoid wearing makeup for at least a week to allow your skin to obtain the most benefit from your Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment. 

The reason that we recommend avoiding makeup during this time is that you should not use any exfoliants, scrubs, or cleansers for a week after your procedure. In addition, you should avoid rubbing or scrubbing your face during this time as it can irritate your skin and minimize your results. 

How Soon Until I See Results From Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments?

Most patients see immediate improvement within the first two weeks after their initial treatment. After just one treatment your skin will feel smoother and will look brighter. This is because the first treatment removes all of the dead skin cells from the epidermis and immediately promotes new skin cell growth. 

For deeper wrinkles, frown lines, large pores, uneven pigmentation, and other concerns, typically 5-6 treatments are needed to see significant improvement. Depending on your skin health, we will recommend that these initial treatments be spaced roughly 2-4 weeks apart. 

Once the initial round of treatments has been performed, most patients experience long-lasting, life-changing results. We recommend that our patients practice proper skin care routines, stay out of the sun as much as possible, and maintain a regular treatment schedule every 3-4 months to maintain their results.  

How Many Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments Will I Need?

Each patient’s treatment plan is individually tailored to their unique needs to ensure the best possible results. Your doctor will ask you a series of questions about your past and current skin needs, health history, and skin care regimens to determine what treatment schedule will be most effective for you. 

Most patients will see some improvements after the first treatment, with measurable improvements after 4-6 treatments. To ensure lasting results, we recommend that our patients maintain a regular treatment schedule every 3-4 months. 

The better that you care for and maintain your skincare routine after your treatments, the better and longer-lasting results you will see. 

How To Prolong The Effects of Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments

On average, Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments last for 3 months when proper skin care and upkeep are maintained. Ensure that you are properly hydrated at all times, using the right kind of moisturizer, and wearing sunscreen every time you go out into the sun, and you can ensure that your results will last as long as possible. 

For first-time patients, we will schedule a consultation with you to determine how many initial treatments we recommend before moving on to maintenance. For most patients, we recommend 4 treatments over a four-month period. 

Eventually, however, the results of your laser treatment will wear off. You can maintain that baby smooth skin and youthful appearance by setting regular laser treatments every 3-4 months after your initial treatments. The effects of laser treatment can also be extended by getting chemical peels in between treatments as well. 

Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment Side Effects

Most people will not experience any side effects from their Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments and will be able to immediately resume normal activities. 

Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments are considered extremely safe, however, some people with more sensitive skin types may experience some side effects after their treatment. These side effects are typically mild and usually fade within a few hours to a few days of treatment. 

If your side effects seem to worsen over time or are not getting better after a few days, reach out to your doctor. Some of the most common side effects of laser treatments in the treatment area include:

  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Itching
  • Heat-related discomfort or tenderness 
  • Temporary acne or milia flare-up
  • Cold sores may appear in the treated area if they existed there previously

More rarely, certain people may experience more severe side effects of the treatment as a result of pre-existing or underlying conditions or medication use. These symptoms include:

  • Pinpoint bleeding
  • Red dots under the skin surface
  • Blistering or burning for 2-4 days
  • Hypopigmentation
  • Infection (in the case of blisters or bleeding)

These complications are rare and should not be considered typical side effects of treatment. If any of these complications occur, contact your doctor immediately. 

Can Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments Be Combined With Other Procedures?

Absolutely! Many of our patients combine their Clear + Brilliant laser treatments with Botox, Juvederm, chemical peels, and various other skin treatments. These combination procedures help to prolong and enhance the effects of individual treatments. 

This strategy is particularly effective for patients that are looking for more intense results and for those with deep frown lines and wrinkles or severe acne scarring. It is important to discuss your treatment options with your doctor to determine which treatments are best for your skin type, as well as to discuss how your recovery time may be affected. 

In most cases, simultaneous treatment options can be performed without any additional downtime or extra care needed. 

Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments in NYC

If you are looking for a quick, painless, and effective skincare treatment then look no further than Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment at Downtown Dermatology. Our highly trained, compassionate, and knowledgeable doctors will work with you to determine the best treatment plan for your skin and will be there to answer your questions every step of the way. 

Don’t live with signs of aging, wrinkles, crow’s feet, frown lines, discoloration, hyperpigmentation, acne, or other skin concerns any longer than you already have. Reach out today to learn how Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatments can rejuvenate and enhance your skin!

Call Downtown Dermatology at 212-233-2995 to make an appointment!