Clear + Brilliant vs. Ablative Lasers – Which Treatment Is Right for You?

By Josh Sim, Aesthetic and Non-Surgical Facelift Specialist

11/03/2025

When it comes to improving skin texture, reducing pigmentation, and restoring radiance, laser treatments remain a trusted and effective option. However, not all lasers are created equal. For clients in London weighing their options, the choice often comes down to Clear + Brilliant Laser —a gentle, non-invasive solution—and more aggressive ablative lasers that deliver intensive resurfacing. Understanding the differences can help you decide which approach aligns best with your skin goals, lifestyle, and expectations.

Clear + Brilliant Laser is a non-ablative fractional laser, meaning it targets the skin’s upper layers without removing or damaging the surface. It works by creating microscopic thermal zones that stimulate collagen production and accelerate skin cell turnover. This results in brighter, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin, with little to no downtime. It’s often called a “starter laser” or “lunchtime laser” because of its accessibility and ease of integration into a busy routine.

Clear + Brilliant Laser in London

By contrast, ablative lasers remove the top layer of the skin entirely. These treatments can deliver dramatic results, especially for deep wrinkles, acne scars, or significant sun damage. However, they typically involve more discomfort, longer healing periods, and a higher risk of side effects such as redness, peeling, and pigmentation shifts. For some clients, especially those with medium to deep skin tones, the downtime and post-care required can be a deterrent.

So how do you choose between the two?

Clear + Brilliant Laser is ideal for clients looking to:

• Maintain youthful skin

• Prevent early signs of ageing

• Reduce mild pigmentation and pore size

• Refresh dull, tired complexions

• Achieve visible results with minimal disruption to daily life

Ablative lasers may be more appropriate for:

• Treating deeper wrinkles or surgical scars

• Correcting extensive sun damage or severe texture issues

• Clients prepared to undergo a longer recovery process for dramatic improvement

Another key difference lies in the treatment schedule. Clear + Brilliant Laser typically requires a series of treatments spaced a few weeks apart to build results gradually. Ablative lasers often deliver results in one or two sessions, but require several days or even weeks of recovery.

From an aesthetic philosophy standpoint, Clear + Brilliant Laser fits well into a preventative, long-term skincare strategy. It’s a treatment that supports skin health over time, reinforcing the skin’s barrier and promoting consistent renewal. For many clients—especially those in their 30s and 40s—it becomes part of an ongoing maintenance plan.

Ablative treatments, while effective, are generally used less frequently due to their intensity. They may be best viewed as corrective rather than preventative, helping to reverse established skin damage rather than preserve youthful qualities.

Clear + Brilliant Laser: Before and After images

It’s also worth considering comfort. Clear + Brilliant Laser is well tolerated by most clients, with a sensation described as warm or prickly, and some mild redness afterward. Ablative lasers are more intense and usually require numbing cream, downtime, and post-treatment aftercare.

At Studio Montecosmet in London, we guide clients through their options with careful, personalised consultations. While we specialise in non-ablative technologies like Clear + Brilliant, we ensure each client understands their treatment choices, expected outcomes, and what will work best for their skin. For those seeking a gentle yet effective laser treatment with minimal recovery and long-term benefits, Clear + Brilliant offers a compelling and well-supported solution.

► Click here to learn more about Clear + Brilliant® Laser here.