If you’re choosing between Fraxel and Clear + Brilliant, both use fractional laser technology but at different treatment intensities. Clear + Brilliant is generally gentler, while Fraxel may suit you if you have more established concerns such as acne scars, dyschromia, fine lines or sun-related changes and can accept more downtime.
You don’t need the stronger option simply because it is stronger. Your best choice depends on what you want to improve, your skin type and how much recovery time you’re comfortable with.
What Is Fraxel Laser Treatment?
Fraxel DUAL uses 1550 nm and 1927 nm wavelengths, which target the skin differently and may be selected according to the concern being treated. The treatment settings and wavelength should be chosen according to your skin, diagnosis and treatment goals.
The 1550 nm wavelength is used for resurfacing, dyschromia, wrinkles around the eyes and acne or surgical scars, while 1927 nm is used for actinic keratoses and pigmented lesions such as age spots, sun spots and freckles. Your dermatologist should select the wavelength and settings for your diagnosis, skin type and goals.
What Is Clear + Brilliant?
If you want a gentler laser treatment, Clear + Brilliant may be an option for you. It uses fractional laser energy for skin resurfacing and may appeal to you if you want to improve concerns such as dullness, uneven texture, early signs of ageing or the appearance of pores with a gentler treatment approach.
Current Clear + Brilliant systems can use 1440 nm and 1927 nm handpieces for fractional resurfacing. The appropriate option depends on the skin concern being treated, your skin characteristics and the treatment plan recommended by your practitioner.
What Is the Main Difference Between Fraxel and Clear + Brilliant?
The main difference for you is intensity. Fraxel is generally the more intensive option for established concerns, while Clear + Brilliant may suit you if your concerns are milder or you want gentler resurfacing.
In practice, your dermatologist can adjust either treatment, so the best choice depends on your concern, skin type and acceptable downtime rather than the device name alone.
Fraxel vs Clear + Brilliant at a Glance
| Feature | Fraxel | Clear + Brilliant |
| Treatment approach | More intensive fractional resurfacing | Gentler fractional resurfacing |
| Wavelengths available | 1550 nm and 1927 nm with Fraxel DUAL | 1440 nm and 1927 nm handpieces |
| May suit | More established photoageing, dyschromia, acne scars or textural concerns, depending on the wavelength and your diagnosis | Milder texture, tone and early signs of photoageing |
| Downtime | Usually more noticeable | Generally less |
| Treatment course | Depends on concern and treatment intensity | Often performed as a course of gentler sessions |
| Best choice depends on | Skin concern, skin type, treatment settings and acceptable downtime | Skin concern, skin type, treatment settings and acceptable downtime |
How Does Fractional Laser Technology Work?
Both Fraxel and Clear + Brilliant use fractional technology that creates microscopic treatment zones while leaving areas of surrounding tissue untreated. As your skin heals, collagen-related remodelling and renewal may gradually improve concerns such as texture and tone, depending on the wavelength and treatment settings.
You may see better results when the treatment intensity matches your specific concerns. A stronger treatment isn’t automatically better for you, as using the right level can help improve your skin while avoiding unnecessary irritation and downtime.
Evidence Note
A 2025 prospective study followed 28 people with mild-to-moderate photoageing through four monthly Clear + Brilliant treatments using 1440 nm and 1927 nm wavelengths. Wrinkles, texture, pigmentation, radiance and pore size improved after treatment, and 96.4% of participants felt their overall appearance had improved.
Because this was a small, single-centre study and not a direct Fraxel comparison, you should not expect identical results or assume one device is better.
Which Treatment Is Better for Sun Damage?
If your sun-related changes are established, Fraxel may suit you because it can be used more intensively. If your concerns are milder and you want less downtime, Clear + Brilliant may be enough.
You shouldn’t choose based on your age alone, as your level of sun exposure matters more. Your dermatologist can assess your skin and recommend the right treatment intensity for you.
Which Is Better for Pigmentation?
If you have melasma, you need particular caution. Fractional lasers may be considered in selected cases, but melasma can recur and treatment-related inflammation may sometimes lead to further pigment changes. Your dermatologist should confirm your diagnosis and discuss the available treatment options with you before deciding whether fractional laser treatment is appropriate.
A 2025 systematic review included 17 studies involving 448 participants treated with 1927 nm thulium lasers for several dermatological conditions. It reported improvements in pigmentation and skin texture, but melasma relapses were also seen and treatment protocols varied considerably between studies. Most studies had a moderate-to-high risk of bias, so you should view the results as encouraging rather than definitive.
Clinical Tip
Two brown marks can look similar in the mirror but still need very different treatment. Sun spots, freckles, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma behave differently, so the diagnosis matters before you choose a laser.
This is especially important if you have melasma or tend to develop dark marks after inflammation. You should have the type and cause of your pigmentation assessed before choosing either laser, so your dermatologist can explain whether fractional treatment is appropriate for you.
Which Is Better for Acne Scars?
If established acne scars are one of your main concerns, Fraxel 1550 nm may be one option for you to discuss because it is specifically indicated for acne scars. Its fractional treatment approach can support collagen remodelling and may gradually improve the appearance and texture of selected depressed scars.
Clear + Brilliant may help you if you only have mild post-acne roughness or uneven texture, but it is generally less intensive. You should have your scars assessed by a dermatologist because deeper, tethered or more complex scars may need another targeted procedure or a combination approach rather than fractional laser treatment alone.
Research Insight
A 2022 Fraxel DUAL best-practice review cites a study of 29 people with acne scarring treated with a 1550 nm non-ablative fractional laser. After two to six treatments, 79.3% had a 50% to 75% improvement one month after their final session.
That result does not mean you will achieve the same improvement. Your scar type and depth matter, and deeper or tethered scars may need another procedure or a combination approach.
Which Treatment Is Better for Fine Lines?
If your fine lines are established, Fraxel may be one option when you want more intensive resurfacing. The 1550 nm wavelength is indicated for wrinkles around the eyes, while your other concerns should guide wavelength choice.
Clear + Brilliant may suit you if your changes are early and you want gentler treatment. Laser resurfacing can improve skin quality, but it cannot remove significant loose skin or treat lines caused mainly by muscle movement.
What About Skin Texture and Enlarged-Looking Pores?
Both treatments can improve your skin texture, but Clear + Brilliant may be enough if you have mild roughness, dullness or enlarged-looking pores. It offers gentler resurfacing that can make your skin feel smoother without requiring significant downtime.
If you have more established texture problems from acne scars or sun damage, Fraxel may provide stronger resurfacing for you. You should also know that laser treatment cannot remove your pores, but improving the surrounding skin texture may make them look less noticeable.
Which Gives More Noticeable Results?
Fraxel may be considered when you want more correction of established concerns because it can be used at higher intensities. Your result still depends on the condition treated, wavelength, settings and your individual skin.
Clear + Brilliant may suit you if you prefer gradual improvement in tone, radiance or texture with less downtime. For you, the better choice is the treatment that matches your goals and recovery preferences.
How Much Downtime Can You Expect?
Clear + Brilliant generally involves less downtime, so you may experience some redness, warmth, dryness or mild sensitivity afterwards. These effects are often easier to manage around your normal routine, although your recovery will depend on your skin and treatment settings.
Fraxel usually involves more noticeable redness, swelling, dryness and peeling, particularly after a stronger treatment. You should avoid picking or scrubbing your skin while it heals, and tell your dermatologist about any upcoming events so you can plan your treatment timing.
Does Fraxel Hurt More Than Clear + Brilliant?
Fraxel is usually the more intense treatment, so you may experience more warmth, prickling or a hot sensation during the procedure. A topical anaesthetic and cooling can help make it more comfortable, although your face may feel sunburnt afterwards.
Clear + Brilliant is generally more comfortable because it uses a gentler approach, although you may still notice warmth or prickling. Your experience will depend on the treatment settings, area being treated and your sensitivity, so you should discuss any concerns about discomfort with your practitioner.
UK Guidance Note
If you are considering laser treatment in England, you should check your practitioner’s training, experience and arrangements for managing complications. Regulation can differ depending on what is being treated and where the procedure takes place.
GOV.UK states that registered medical practitioners using lasers or IPL to treat a disease, disorder or injury must register with the Care Quality Commission, while laser or IPL treatment carried out exclusively for cosmetic purposes does not require CQC registration under that route. Some local councils also require laser practitioners or premises to register, so you should check the requirements that apply in your area.
How Many Sessions Will You Need?
There isn’t one fixed number of sessions that will work for everyone. You may notice improvement after one Fraxel treatment, while more established concerns may require a series, and your results can continue developing as collagen remodels.
Clear + Brilliant is more commonly used as a course of gentler treatments, with some people choosing occasional sessions for maintenance. The number you need will depend on your skin, concerns, treatment settings and the results you want to achieve.
Which Is Better for Younger Skin?
Age alone should not decide your treatment. Clear + Brilliant may suit you if you have mild sun damage, dullness or uneven texture and want a gentler option.
Younger skin doesn’t automatically mean you should avoid Fraxel. If you have concerns such as significant acne scarring, Fraxel may be more suitable for you, while someone older may still prefer Clear + Brilliant for a subtle refresh.
Can Fraxel and Clear + Brilliant Be Used on Darker Skin Tones?
A gentler treatment approach may sometimes be considered when reducing inflammation and pigmentary risk is particularly important, but no fractional laser completely removes the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Your dermatologist should choose the wavelength, energy, density and treatment plan according to your skin type, pigmentation history and the condition being treated.
A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis included 43 studies involving 1,654 people with Fitzpatrick skin types IV to VI who received non-ablative laser or energy-based treatments. The pooled rate of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation was 8.1%, and the risk increased with higher skin phototype, laser density and total energy.
If you have a darker skin tone, careful device selection and conservative settings are especially important. You should see a practitioner experienced in treating skin of colour, particularly if you have previously developed post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
What Are the Risks and How Do You Choose the Right Treatment?
Both treatments can cause temporary side effects, so your choice should balance results, recovery and your individual skin.
- Redness and swelling: These are common after fractional laser treatment.
- Pigment changes: Your risk may be higher if you’re prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Downtime: Fraxel generally involves more recovery than Clear + Brilliant.
- Treatment goals: Fraxel may be considered for more established concerns, while Clear + Brilliant may suit you if your concerns are milder or you prefer a gentler treatment approach.
Your practitioner should assess your skin type, concerns and acceptable downtime before recommending either treatment. More significant complications are uncommon but can include burns, blistering, infection, scarring or persistent pigment changes, so you should discuss your individual risk before proceeding.
What Should You Tell Your Practitioner Before Laser Treatment?
Before either treatment, tell your practitioner about active skin conditions, infections, cold sores, photosensitivity, raised scars, medicines and skincare products. You should also mention recent cosmetic procedures because these may affect whether or when treatment is safe for you.
If you have developed significant pigmentation after inflammation or previous laser treatment, tell your practitioner. Your skin type and pigment history should guide the wavelength, intensity and aftercare chosen for you.
Myth vs Fact
| Myth | Fact |
| Fraxel is always better because it is stronger. | A more intensive treatment is not automatically better. The right choice depends on your skin concern, risk profile and acceptable downtime. |
| Clear + Brilliant cannot improve pigmentation. | It may improve some superficial uneven pigmentation, but the type and cause of pigmentation should be identified first. |
| Fraxel permanently removes acne scars. | Fractional laser treatment may improve the appearance and texture of scars, but it does not guarantee complete scar removal. |
| Clear + Brilliant has no downtime or risks. | Recovery is generally lighter, but temporary redness, sensitivity, dryness and other adverse effects can still occur. |
| Darker skin cannot be treated with fractional lasers. | Treatment may be possible, but careful patient selection and conservative settings are important because pigmentary complications can be more significant. |
Key Takeaways
- Fraxel and Clear + Brilliant both use non-ablative fractional laser technology, but Fraxel may be considered when you need a more intensive resurfacing approach.
- Clear + Brilliant may suit milder concerns such as early texture changes, uneven tone or general skin maintenance when you prefer less downtime.
- Fraxel may be considered for more established concerns such as acne scars, sun damage, pigmentation and textural changes, depending on the wavelength used.
- Pigmentation should be properly diagnosed before laser treatment, particularly if you have melasma or a history of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- If you have a darker skin tone, fractional laser treatment may be possible in selected cases, but the wavelength, energy, density and treatment technique need careful selection to reduce the risk of pigmentary complications.
- The most suitable treatment depends on your skin concern, skin type, desired level of correction and how much recovery time you can comfortably manage.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main difference between Fraxel and Clear + Brilliant?
The main difference is intensity. Clear + Brilliant is generally gentler and may suit you if you want less downtime, while Fraxel may be considered for more established concerns such as acne scars, dyschromia, fine lines or sun-related changes.
2. Which is better for sun damage, Fraxel or Clear + Brilliant?
If your sun damage is more established, Fraxel may offer you a more intensive option. If your changes are milder and you want less downtime, Clear + Brilliant may suit you better.
3. Is Fraxel better than Clear + Brilliant for acne scars?
For established acne scars, Fraxel 1550 nm may be more appropriate for you because it is indicated for acne scars. Your dermatologist should still assess your scar type because some scars need combination treatment.
4. Which laser is better for pigmentation?
Fraxel 1927 nm may help certain superficial pigmented lesions, while Clear + Brilliant may suit milder uneven tone. If you have melasma or post-inflammatory pigmentation, you need careful assessment before either treatment.
5. Which treatment is better for fine lines and wrinkles?
Fraxel may suit you if fine lines are more established and you want stronger resurfacing. Clear + Brilliant may be better if your changes are early and you prefer gentler treatment.
6. Does Fraxel have more downtime than Clear + Brilliant?
Generally, yes. Fraxel is often used more intensively, so you may experience more noticeable redness, swelling, dryness or peeling, although your actual downtime will depend on the wavelength and settings used. Clear + Brilliant generally involves a gentler recovery.
7. Does Fraxel hurt more than Clear + Brilliant?
Fraxel may feel more intense, with greater warmth or prickling, although topical anaesthetic and cooling can help. Clear + Brilliant is usually gentler, but your experience can still vary.
8. How many Fraxel or Clear + Brilliant treatments are needed?
Your treatment course depends on your concern, settings and response. Fraxel may involve one or several sessions, while Clear + Brilliant is often used as a series of gentler treatments.
9. Can Fraxel and Clear + Brilliant be used on darker skin tones?
Both may be options for some darker skin tones, but your wavelength and settings need careful selection because inflammation can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Your dermatologist should assess your skin and pigment history first.
10. Should I choose Fraxel or Clear + Brilliant?
Clear + Brilliant may suit you if your concerns are mild and you want gentler treatment. Fraxel may be considered for more established sun damage, dyschromia, acne scars or texture problems, depending on your diagnosis and wavelength.
Final Thoughts: Fraxel vs Clear + Brilliant
Fraxel and Clear + Brilliant can both resurface your skin, but the right option for you depends on your concern and preferred treatment intensity. Clear + Brilliant may suit milder changes, while Fraxel may be considered for more established sun damage, dyschromia, acne scars or texture concerns.
If you’re considering Fraxel laser treatment in London, you can contact our team at London Dermatology Centre to arrange a consultation with one of our specialists.
References:
- Friedman, P.M. et al. (2022) ‘1,550 nm erbium-doped and 1,927 nm thulium nonablative fractional laser system: Best practices and treatment setting recommendations’, Dermatologic Surgery, 48(2), pp. 195–200. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8806037/
- Polder, K.D., Friedman, P.M., Feetham, J., Gower, J., Lin, T. and Jacobson, A. (2025) ‘Nonablative fractional diode laser resurfacing (1440 nm and 1927 nm) for photoaged skin’, Dermatologic Surgery, 51(1), pp. 52–57. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11623373/
- Modena, D.A.O., Yamamoto, A.P.M., Silva, T.B.F. and Guirro, E.C.O. (2025) ‘Thulium laser (1927 nm) for dermatological conditions: A systematic review’, Lasers in Medical Science, 40(1), article 518. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41379329/
- GOV.UK (no date) Laser or intense pulsed light treatment registration (England). Available at: https://www.gov.uk/find-licences/laser-intense-pulsed-light-treatment-registration-england
- Hu, S., Atmakuri, M. and Rosenberg, J. (2022) ‘Adverse events of nonablative lasers and energy-based therapies in subjects with Fitzpatrick skin phototypes IV to VI: A systematic review and meta-analysis’, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 42(5), pp. 537–547. Available at: https://academic.oup.com/asj/article/42/5/537/6432599