While our Clarity II laser was being serviced, we used the BBL Bare system to continue treatments — and it sparked a lot of great questions about how the two technologies differ. Learn how Clarity II and BBL Bare compare in technology, comfort, and effectiveness — and which device is best for your skin type.
At Honey Skincare Studio, we pride ourselves on using only the most advanced, medical-grade technology to deliver consistent, safe, and effective results. Our Lutronic Clarity II laser is our gold-standard device for laser hair removal because it offers both wavelength options in one platform—allowing us to safely and effectively treat all skin types.
Recently, our Clarity II underwent a complete factory-level service and system refurbishment — including a brand-new handpiece, replacement flashlamps, upgraded optical components, and refreshed internal circuit boards — representing a $30,000 reinvestment to ensure it performs at peak precision and reliability. While it was being serviced, our team continued to provide hair removal treatments using our Sciton BBL Bare system, which still delivers excellent results with its own unique benefits. Many clients were curious about the difference between the two, and some even loved their BBL results so much they asked to keep using it for their future visits!
So, let’s break down what sets these two devices apart.
1. Technology and Wavelengths
Clarity II
- A true dual-wavelength laser combining 755 nm Alexandrite and 1064 nm Nd:YAG in one device.
- The Alexandrite wavelength targets melanin in lighter skin types (Fitzpatrick I–III), while the Nd:YAG wavelength penetrates deeper to safely treat darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV–VI).
- Because both are coherent laser wavelengths, Clarity II delivers precise, concentrated energy directly to the hair follicle for maximum efficacy and safety across all complexions.
- This versatility makes it our primary laser hair removal system—it performs seamlessly on any skin type.
BBL Bare
- An advanced BroadBand Light (IPL) system that emits non-coherent light over multiple wavelengths filtered to target pigment in hair follicles.
- Best suited for lighter skin types (Fitzpatrick I–III), since IPL devices rely on contrast between the hair and skin pigment to effectively target follicles.
- Uses high-speed pulsed light rather than a single wavelength, making it adaptable for finer or more superficial hair.
2. Energy Delivery and Precision
Clarity II
Delivers energy in a highly focused, coherent beam, allowing precise targeting of hair follicles with minimal scatter into surrounding tissue. This focused output provides strong, consistent energy for faster, more dramatic results—especially effective for coarse or dense hair.
BBL Bare
Uses broad-spectrum light dispersed across a wider range of wavelengths, making it less selective and focused than a true laser. While light spreads more diffusely, it still achieves excellent follicular targeting—especially when used at higher settings.
At Honey, we prefer a controlled stamping technique with the BBL Bare (rather than continuous gliding) to intensify results. This approach delivers more concentrated energy—creating a slightly more intense sensation during treatment—but enhances efficacy on darker hairs.
Additionally, broadband light treatments like BBL Bare can stimulate skin rejuvenation, improving tone and texture. Clinical studies (including the Stanford BBL study) even demonstrate reversal of gene expression toward younger skin.
3. Comfort and Treatment Experience
Clarity II
Features dynamic cryogen cooling, which sprays a fine mist of coolant milliseconds before each laser pulse. Clients typically describe the feeling as a quick “zap” followed by an immediate cool burst. Sensation varies by area but is generally well-tolerated and quick per pulse.
BBL Bare
Uses continuous contact cooling throughout treatment. When performed with our higher-intensity stamping method, it can feel slightly more intense than Clarity II, but this approach is extremely effective on darker, coarse hair.
Alternatively, BBL Bare can also be used in a gliding motion, where the pulses feel more like a gentle, rolling warmth. This mode is less intense but safer for those with mild residual tans or medium skin tones.
BBL Bare performs best on lighter skin types without a base tan (Fitzpatrick I–III) and is not recommended for deeper complexions (Fitzpatrick IV–VI).
4. Effectiveness and Hair Reduction
Clarity II
Because of its focused laser energy and higher fluence capability, Clarity II achieves faster, more noticeable reduction in fewer sessions—particularly for coarse or dense hair. It remains our go-to device for precision, power, and universality, handling every skin tone and hair density seamlessly.
BBL Bare
Delivers excellent hair reduction for clients with lighter skin and medium-to-dark hair. It may require a few more sessions to achieve equivalent reduction but also provides the added bonus of skin rejuvenation from its broadband light energy. Many clients who are good candidates enjoy the subtle glow and improvement in skin tone after BBL hair removal sessions.
5. Safety by Skin Type
Both devices are FDA-cleared and safe when used properly, but their ideal candidates differ:
- Clarity II: Safe and effective for all Fitzpatrick skin types (I–VI)
- BBL Bare: Most effective for Fitzpatrick I–III (fair to light-medium tones)
In Short
- Clarity II: Dual-wavelength laser (755 nm + 1064 nm), highly focused, precise targeting, safe for all skin types, and exceptional selectivity.
- BBL Bare: Broad-spectrum light, less focused, best for lighter skin types, still powerful when used at higher settings, and provides added skin-brightening benefits.
The Bottom Line
At Honey Skincare Studio, your safety, comfort, and results are always our top priority. We’ve invested heavily in maintaining and upgrading our Clarity II laser so it continues to perform at its best—while ensuring that every client still receives outstanding care and results using our BBL Bare system when appropriate.
Both technologies represent the highest standards in modern hair removal, and our skilled providers know exactly how to choose the right one for your skin type and goals.
Written by Murissa Wallace, Master Aesthetician & Founder — passionate about blending education, innovation, and the art of aesthetics. Murissa is committed to investing in the best equipment and ensuring it performs at its absolute best—because excellence starts with the tools we use.
