Fraxel vs Clear and Brilliant Laser Treatment: Cost, Sessions & Downtime

Laser resurfacing has transformed the way many people tackle signs of aging, acne scars, or uneven skin texture. Two of the most requested options today are Fraxel and Clear + Brilliant. Both treatments use advanced laser technology, but they address different skin concerns. The right laser treatment depends on your budget, goals, and tolerance for downtime.

For patients exploring Fraxel vs Clear and Brilliant laser treatment in Winnipeg, understanding the real differences matters. In this blog, we will compare Fraxel vs Clear + Brilliant with a sharp focus on cost, number of sessions, and recovery time. 

What Is Fraxel Laser Treatment?

Fraxel laser treatment is a non-ablative fractional laser designed to target deeper skin damage. It treats microscopic columns of your skin while leaving the surrounding tissue intact. By targeting tiny columns of skin, Fraxel encourages collagen growth and helps your skin heal naturally. Fraxel is commonly used for moderate to severe skin concerns. You are an ideal candidate for Fraxel laser treatment in Winnipeg if you are dealing with:

• Acne scars

• Deep wrinkles

• Sun damage

• Uneven texture

• Melasma

• Surgical scars

What Is Clear and Brilliant Laser Treatment?

Clear and Brilliant laser treatment is a gentler fractional laser. It focuses on early signs of aging and skin maintenance. The laser creates tiny treatment zones in the upper layers of skin to improve tone, texture, and radiance. You are the best candidate for Clear + Brilliant laser treatment if you have concerns such as:

• Dull-looking skin

• Visible or enlarged pores

• Mild pigmentation issues

• Early fine lines

• An uneven skin tone

Fraxel vs Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment: Sessions Required

Fraxel Laser Treatment Sessions

Most patients require 3 to 5 Fraxel laser sessions to achieve noticeable improvement. Each session is generally spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart to allow proper skin healing and collagen regeneration. For deeper skin concerns such as acne scars or advanced sun damage, additional treatments may be recommended. Fraxel results are long-lasting, and skin quality continues to improve for several months after the final session. This is due to new collagen formation in the deeper layers of the skin.

Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment Sessions

Clear + Brilliant laser treatment usually works best when done in a series of 3 to 6 sessions. These sessions are generally spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart. Since the laser targets the upper layers of the skin, the changes happen gradually rather than overnight. You may start noticing brighter, smoother skin after the first few treatments, with results improving over time. To keep that fresh glow and even tone, many patients opt for maintenance sessions every 6 months.

Fraxel vs Clear + Brilliant Laser: Treatment Cost

Cost is the primary factor when considering “Clear + Brilliant vs Fraxel Laser Treatment” for your skin. Let’s discuss it in detail. 

Fraxel Laser Treatment Cost

The cost of Fraxel laser treatment depends on the area treated and the treatment depth. The average pricing of Fraxel laser treatment is for:

• Full face: $900 to $1,500 per session

• Face and neck: $1,500 to $2,000 per session

Dermatology clinics offering Fraxel laser treatment in Winnipeg may provide package discounts for multiple sessions. Because fewer sessions are needed, the total cost may be lower than expected for long-term results.

Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment Cost

The Clear and Brilliant treatment costs less per session but more over time due to more sessions. Average pricing for Clear and Brilliant laser treatment is:

• Full face: $400 to $600 per session

Dermatology clinics in Winnipeg that offer Clear and Brilliant laser treatment often recommend annual maintenance sessions. This can increase the treatment's long-term cost.

Fraxel vs Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment: Downtime and Recovery

Fraxel Laser Recovery and Downtime

After Fraxel Laser treatment in Winnipeg, patients can expect noticeable downtime. Redness generally lasts 3 to 7 days, while swelling may continue for 2 to 4 days. Around the third day, the skin often develops bronzing and flaking as part of the healing process. You can apply makeup after 3 to 4 days. 

Clear and Brilliant Laser Recovery and Downtime

Clear + Brilliant downtime is much shorter and more manageable. Following this laser treatment, redness usually resolves within 12 to 24 hours. Some patients may experience mild skin roughness for up to 2 days. Makeup can be applied the day after this laser treatment, and most patients can return to work immediately or within 24 hours.

Which Laser Treatment is Right for You?

Choosing between Fraxel and Clear + Brilliant depends on your skin concerns, budget, and available recovery time. Fraxel is better for treating deeper concerns, such as acne scars, wrinkles, and sun damage, with fewer sessions but longer downtime. 

Clear and Brilliant laser treatment is suitable for early aging concerns and ongoing skin maintenance, offering gradual results with minimal recovery. Book a consultation to determine which option suits your skin needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Is the Downtime for Fraxel Laser?

Fraxel laser downtime is generally minimal, with most patients experiencing about one week of recovery. Many people can return to their normal daily life activities within 3-4 days, depending on healing.

How Long Does Your Face Peel After Fraxel?

Facial peeling after Fraxel generally occurs between days 4 and 7 following treatment. During this time, the skin may flake noticeably, similar to peeling after a sunburn, and can appear ‘freckled’ as small patches of old skin are shed. This peeling is a normal part of the healing process as damaged skin is replaced with healthier new skin.

How Many Clear + Brilliant Treatments Equal One Fraxel?

Four Clear and Brilliant treatments are approximately equivalent to a standard Fraxel treatment. Clear + Brilliant is best suited to maintaining improvements in skin texture and tone, whereas Fraxel provides deeper, more intensive resurfacing.

How Long Does It Take for Skin to Heal After Fraxel?

Fraxel laser treatment recovery time typically involves an initial healing phase of 5 to 7 days, during which redness and peeling resolve. Full recovery, including complete skin normalization and optimal results, can take up to two weeks.

Who Is Not a Candidate for Fraxel Laser Treatment?

Fraxel lasers may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical or skin conditions. This includes uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or active skin infections.