While Clear + Brilliant and Fraxel both utilise Solta’s revolutionary fractional laser technology, there are key differences in their indications for use. Brisbane dermatologist Dr Davin Lim says knowing when and why to use each device is key to maximise outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Clear + Brilliant and Fraxel both use fractional laser technology, but in vastly different ways to target different skin concerns and achieve different outcomes. Clear + Brilliant is a gentle “gateway” fractional laser treatment designed for superficial resurfacing to improve skin tone, texture and pore appearance and as a preventative skin treatment. Clear + Brilliant offers two treatment options: 1440nm and 1927nm. By targeting only the top dermal layers, the intensity and depth at which it treats is relatively shallow and downtime is minimal.
Fraxel penetrates the skin more deeply to repair damage, and is effective in noticeably improving wrinkles and fine lines, sun-damaged skin, scarring and pigmentation. Fraxel is divided into the Dual device with the 1927nm and 1550nm wavelengths, and the Re:pair device which has a 10600nm wavelength, offering the versatility to customise treatment according to the patient’s needs, skin type and tolerance for downtime. As the first fractional laser modality of its kind, Fraxel remains at the pinnacle of laser skin resurfacing.
Q&A with Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist, Cutis Clinic, Brisbane
Q: Why is it important to be able to offer patients both of these fractional laser technologies in your practice?
A: Fraxel and Clear + Brilliant use the same technology but in different ways to offer a well-rounded treatment program. I own two Fraxels and one Clear + Brilliant. Over the past decade, these devices have been essential to my Cutis Clinic and Cutis Medical practices and a true workhorse that we use day in, day out.
Both devices complement each other beautifully. It means we can offer a complete treatment plan incorporating both devices or use whichever device is more suitable for the patient’s needs. This includes offering treatments (that actually work) with limited downtime such as the Clear + Brilliant. We can also utilise the Clear + Brilliant for darker skin types for rejuvenation and conditions such as melasma.
We use Fraxel to treat sun spots, wrinkles and deeper pigmentation. The Fraxel laser offers great versatility; we tailor each patient’s treatments to suit their condition, tolerance for downtime and idealised results. This can mean some treatments do require a hefty downtime of 5-7 days or we can adjust the treatment parameters to suit those patients who are unable to commit to that downtime.
Patient selection is incredibly important with these devices. Our staff are trained in every aspect of this to ensure patients receive treatments that are best suited for them. These devices can be used on many different skin types and conditions and offer a range of great results. However, it is also important to remember the device is only as good as the operator. This is where training is imperative.
Q: What are the key differences in their indications for use?
A: We often use Clear + Brilliant for superficial skin rejuvenation. We also feel confident using this device on darker skin types as it offers a greater safety margin. The 1927nm diode-driven aspect of Clear + Brilliant can aid in the delivery of topicals which is a standout feature of this device.
We use Fraxel Dual for a range of skin types, however its higher setting range means we predominantly use it for rejuvenation in skin types I-III. The 1550nm wavelength of Fraxel Dual can be combined with the more superficial 1927nm to treat different depths of skin. Using the Fraxel Dual offers both great superficial resurfacing and provides a deeper treatment simultaneously to ensure a great overall rejuvenation treatment.
Q: How do considerations for spot size and depth of penetration determine which device and treatment settings are most appropriate?
A: The Clear + Brilliant and Fraxel devices are exceptionally well made and can be optimised to suit different penetration levels and settings to suit the patients and what outcome we wish to achieve. Each treatment we perform is completely bespoke, adjusting the number of passes, the wavelength, and the energy measured in millijoules. Doing this ensures we can treat our patients with accuracy and achieve optimal results.
Q: How do you advise your patients who are choosing between Clear + Brilliant, chemical peels and microdermabrasion?
A: We use holistic and in-depth consultations to determine which treatment would be most suitable for our patients. The Clear + Brilliant, unlike microdermabrasion and chemical peels, can be tailored to a specific area. It can be more adjustable, changing the number of passes to target a particular lesion or area. We also in turn utilise our range of peels in conjunction with Clear + Brilliant to offer a well- rounded treatment program with amazing results.
Q: How has the addition of the Permea laser enhanced Clear + Brilliant treatment?
A: The addition of the Permea handpiece has changed how we use Clear + Brilliant. We utilise the Permea device constantly and have seen incredible results with minimal downtime. It is definitely a staff favourite! We also utilise it with additional topicals such as retinol, ascorbic acid and hydroquinone to enhance skin rejuvenation results.
Q: What is your experience working with Solta?
A: We have had a great experience with our Solta rep and the company as a whole. Solta has always been great to ensure our base level training is completed promptly for new staff, with constant assistance being offered by the company.
We often perform our own in-depth training for our staff as we offer such bespoke treatments. Solta has always been very understanding of this and my tendency to do things a little differently. AMP
