Clear + Brilliant® in Marin & San Francisco, CA

Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology in San Francisco, CA is proud to provide their patients with laser skin care treatments using the innovative Clear + Brilliant system. This system produces major improvements not only in the texture and tone of the skin but in the appearance of fine lines, acne, and large pores. If you’re battling the effects of aging or trying to address them before the battle even starts, Clear + Brilliant can help. With this simple and gentle laser treatment provided by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Tracy Evans, you can help prevent the visible signs of aging and the overall dulling effects that time and the environment can have on your skin. Clear + Brilliant is the latest in anti-aging technology developed by Solta Medical. They are the pioneers of fractional laser treatments with a proven history of nearly one million treatments. The Clear + Brilliant system is designed to deliver powerfully precise laser energy to stimulate a refreshing boost for healthy, younger-looking skin.

Both men and women looking to maintain or improve the appearance of their skin and combat the early signs of aging are candidates for Clear + Brilliant treatment. Unlike some other laser treatments, Clear + Brilliant is safe for all skin tones, even darker complexions. Clear + Brilliant laser treatment may be right for you if you relate to any of the following:

• Battling with uneven skin tone and/or texture
• Having dull or damaged skin
• Having large pores
• Battling with hyperpigmentation
• Having freckles on your face that you would like to remove
• Having fine lines and wrinkles

We ask all of our patients to discontinue using their retinol products, avoid extra sun exposure, and consistently wear sunscreen for at least seven days before their treatment.

Clear + Brilliant takes about 30 minutes for each session. When you arrive at Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology San Francisco & Marin, we will apply numbing cream 15 minutes prior to the treatment. After the numbing period is complete, we will wash the cream off and start the treatment. Our healthcare professionals will gently guide the Clear + Brilliant handpiece across your target areas. This will be done in several passes to ensure total coverage. Clear + Brilliant utilizes gentle and safe laser technology to introduce micro-injuries to the top layer of your skin. This then stimulates the skin’s natural healing process so that the damaged areas are replaced with new, healthy tissue. This process also stimulates the production of new collagen, which helps the skin appear younger over time. 

Immediately after treatment, a topical antioxidant serum will be applied to the skin. Additionally, we can apply a refreshing mask for 10 – 15 minutes after the treatment.

Immediately post-treatment, you may experience some redness, mild swelling, and heat, which typically diminish in under 12 hours. Over the next few days, you may experience some swelling, itchiness, skin sensitivity, or a "sandpaper" texture. These are indications of the natural renewal process and typically dissipate a few days after treatment. Applying cold compresses and sleeping sitting up for the first day or two can help alleviate any swelling.

Your total healing process will last for about 3 – 7 days, and then you will be able to see your full results. One Clear + Brilliant session can leave your skin feeling smoother and younger, giving you the radiant glow that comes from healthy, youthful skin. However, individual results will vary on a case by case basis, and some patients may need more than one session to achieve optimal results. 

What is the cost of a Clear + Brilliant session?
Clear + Brilliant session pricing will depend on the degree of skin damage and the number and size of the areas needing treatment. Dr. Evans will be able to talk to you about how much your treatment will cost after she examines your skin and consults with you about your complexion concerns. Be sure to ask about any skin care packages and/or specials Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology San Francisco & Marin may be offering at your consultation.

How does Clear + Brilliant improve skin?
Clear + Brilliant treatments take advantage of your body's own natural healing process to rejuvenate skin. The gentle laser technology introduces microscopic injuries into the upper layers of the skin that then trigger healing from the inside out. As the micro-injuries are healed, damaged skin sheds off, and healthy, new skin takes its place. This regeneration process also generates more collagen growth, which helps maintain and improve your results even after you are fully healed.

Is Clear + Brilliant safe?
Yes. Clear + Brilliant treatments are done with non-ablative fractional lasers, which means that (a) the top layer of skin is not removed, and (b) it is gentle enough for all skin tones. Clear + Brilliant, sometimes referred to as a "baby Fraxel" or "Fraxel Lite," is the most gentle laser resurfacing treatment. It is important to note that any laser treatment can have complications so it is crucial that your treatment is performed by a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

How do I need to prep my skin for Clear + Brilliant?
At least one full week before your appointment, you should stop using retinol products, avoid sun exposure, and wear plenty of sunscreen, even indoors. If you do have to spend time outdoors, it is important to wear a hat and protective clothing along with your sunscreen. Dr. Evans asks all of her Clear + Brilliant patients to follow these steps to ensure their skin won't have extra sensitivity to the treatment.

How often should I have Clear + Brilliant treatments?
The timing of sessions is different with each patient, but most people should not have sessions less than two weeks apart. Some patients have sessions every 2 – 3 months with great results while others need monthly sessions. Some patients choose to group all their treatments in a shorter time span and then wait a year to do it again. Dr. Evans will recommend your best schedule based on several factors, including skin type, the problem being addressed, and your personal healing process.

Dr. Evans and our team at Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology San Francisco & Marin are excited to help patients get the refreshed, rejuvenated complexions they hope for with Clear + Brilliant treatments. Our patients, both men and women, have loved their results and wish they had done it sooner! If you would like to smooth your skin, even its tone, and reduce the signs of sun damage, come in for a consultation at our San Francisco office. You are only days away from a fresher face.