Clear + Brilliant vs Laser Facial: Which to Choose

Clients can now choose from two incredible laser facial treatments at SEV: the Laser Facial and Clear + Brilliant.

But how will you know which of these treatments is right for you?

In this guide, we break down the main differences between the treatments, from how each one works to the results, cost, and more.

Quick Comparison: 

What Is a Laser Facial?

A laser facial is any type of photorejuvenation treatment using laser, from the ultra-mild SEV Laser Facial to more intense CO2 laser treatments.

At SEV, the Laser Facial is a specific treatment. It’s an entry-level facial that uses a 1064 Nd:YAG laser at lower-intensity settings to refresh and rejuvenate the skin without any downtime.

It’s great as a monthly or even bi-monthly treatment for preserving collagen, clarifying the skin, and addressing light redness or pigmentation concerns.

What is Clear + Brilliant?

Clear + Brilliant is a fractional laser treatment that gently resurfaces and stimulates the skin. Studies show it effectively helps reduce hyperpigmentation, fine lines, pore size, and mild texture concerns.

It is a non-ablative, fractional laser treatment, which means that the laser beam is split, treating the skin in thousands of microscopic treatment zones. This allows for very thorough renewal with minimal damage or downtime.

How They Work

Both the SEV Laser Facial and Clear + Brilliant work by creating targeted thermal damage in the lower layers of the skin, without damaging or removing skin from the surface.

The Laser Facial emits a single, focused beam of light at a 1064 wavelength, which is absorbed by the dermis. There, it gently stimulates collagen and elastin production, gradually helps break up visible capillaries and clusters of hyperpigmentation, and helps prevent blemishes and breakouts. A single facial session takes about 15 minutes and requires no numbing.

Clear + Brilliant is a fractional, non-ablative laser that treats the skin at 1440 nm and 1927 nm wavelengths, which target both upper and lower layers of the skin. A single facial session takes 55 minutes, which also includes topical numbing to prevent discomfort.

Clear + Brilliant operates at a slightly higher intensity per pulse than the Laser Facial, but its fractional design disperses that energy across thousands of micro-treatment zones. This allows the treatment to deliver more profound skin improvements while keeping discomfort and downtime minimal.

Clear + Brilliant vs Laser Facial Results

Clear + Brilliant delivers visible results within 4 to 6 treatments, while the Laser Facial requires 6 to 8 treatments for initial changes.

Clear + Brilliant is the better choice if you’re looking for quick improvement in concerns like hyperpigmentation, light texture, and fine lines.

Meanwhile, the Laser Facial is best as an affordable way to prevent breakouts and early signs of aging because it gently maintains skin quality, clarity, and collagen production.

Comparing Side Effects and Downtime

The common side effects of the Laser Facial and Clear + Brilliant are redness, swelling, and a sunburn-like sensation. With the Laser Facial, these side effects usually dissipate within a few hours, while they may last for up to a few days with Clear + Brilliant.

Because Clear + Brilliant also resurfaces the skin, it can lead to a temporary “sandpaper” texture and bronzing as damaged cells shed. This process usually occurs 1–2 weeks after treatment.

When carried out by trained providers following correct clinical protocols, adverse events like hyperpigmentation, infection, or scarring are incredibly rare. Receiving clinical clearance and following proper pre- and post-care instructions are key to ensuring safety.

Which Treatment Costs More?

Clear + Brilliant costs a little more — a single session is $395 at SEV, with a special offer on your first treatment. A single Laser Facial session is just $199, but you can get your first treatment for free.

Book Your Laser Treatment at SEV

The bottom line:

• If you want to see a quick impact on your skin’s clarity and smoothness, choose Clear + Brilliant.
• If you want a mild treatment that maintains skin quality and supports steady improvements, choose the Laser Facial.

If you’re just starting, we invite you to book the 15-minute Laser Facial for free with code HELLOGLOW. It’s a great introduction to laser treatments.

Our goal at SEV is to recommend a treatment plan that’s right for you, so you can live confidently in your skin.

During your appointment, you can take the opportunity to speak with your provider and develop a treatment plan that’s right for you — whether that involves the Laser Facial, Clear + Brilliant, or a different treatment altogether.