Q: Who is Clear & Bright Protocol II for?
A: Clear & Bright Protocol II is formulated for normal to oily, acne-prone skin that clogs easily and experiences recurring breakouts, texture, and uneven tone. If excess oil and inconsistent exfoliation leave your skin congested or unable to stay clear for long, this protocol helps clear buildup, refine texture, and support ongoing renewal for a smoother, more consistent-looking complexion over time. It's suited to normal, combination, and oily skin in all skin tones.
Q: What's the difference between Clear & Bright Protocol I and Protocol II?
A: Both protocols help address breakouts and uneven tone, but they're matched to different skin types. Protocol II is built for normal to oily skin that clogs easily, while Protocol I is designed for dry to normal skin. Choosing the version that matches your skin type helps the regimen perform as intended.
Q: What products are included in Clear & Bright Protocol II?
A: The protocol includes five products designed to work together in sequence: the Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Wash, 3% Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Toner, 8% Mandelic Acid Serum, Derm-A-Gel®, and Allantoin. Each step is selected to support the next, following the Cleanser, Toner, Corrector, and Hydrator/Protector framework.
Q: How strong is this protocol?
A: Clear & Bright Protocol II is an Active-strength protocol. It uses full-strength clinical formulations suited to skin that tolerates exfoliation well. Mild dryness, peeling, or sensitivity can be normal as your skin acclimates—the routine is designed to be introduced gradually so skin adjusts comfortably.
Q: How do I use Clear & Bright Protocol II — what's the AM and PM routine?
A: Morning (AM):
- Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Wash — Work into a lather and massage over the face for 20–30 seconds, avoiding the eye area. Rinse thoroughly. Start every other day, increasing to once or twice daily as tolerated.
- 3% Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Toner — After cleansing, apply with a moistened cotton pad to the face, neck, and chest. Use every third day in week one, every other day in week two, then daily from week three as tolerated.
- 8% Mandelic Acid Serum — Apply as your Step 3 Corrector to the entire face, neck, and chest (not as a spot treatment). Start every other day for two weeks, then increase to daily.
- Allantoin — Apply to the face daily.
Evening (PM):
- Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Wash — Cleanse as in the morning.
- 3% Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Toner — Apply with a moistened cotton pad to the face, neck, and chest, following the same frequency schedule.
- Derm-A-Gel® — Apply a thin, even layer over the entire area. Begin every other day, increasing to nightly as skin acclimates. Allow it to absorb fully before applying other products. Shake well before use.
Q: How should I introduce the products if I'm new to clinical actives?
A: Each step is designed to be eased in rather than started all at once. Begin the wash every day, the serum and toner every other day for the first two weeks, and Derm-A-Gel® every other day. Increasing gradually gives your skin time to acclimate. Mild dryness or peeling is normal; if sensitivity occurs, skip a few days and resume at the lower frequency.
Q: Do I need to wear sunscreen with this protocol?
A: Yes. Because this protocol includes exfoliating actives, sun protection is essential. If you're exposed to the sun, wear a hat and reapply sunscreen every two hours, and avoid unnecessary sun exposure. Daily sunscreen helps protect your results and support overall skin health. We recommend Vivant's Day Lotion Sunscreen SPF 15—a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection that absorbs quickly without greasiness, making it well-suited to the normal-to-oily, acne-prone skin this protocol is built for.
Q: How long until I see results? A: A protocol works through synergy, consistency, and time. Following the complete routine for at least 30 days helps support visible improvement as skin moves through its natural renewal cycle. Surface-level changes may appear earlier, while deeper improvement continues to build with consistent, longer-term use.
Q: Is it normal to experience dryness or peeling? A: Yes—mild dryness, peeling, or sensitivity can be a normal part of acclimating to active exfoliation. If it occurs, skip a few days and resume at a lower frequency, then build back up gradually as your skin tolerates. If irritation persists, reduce usage.
Q: Do I get a discount when I buy the full protocol?
A: Yes—receive 10% off when you purchase Clear & Bright Protocol II as a complete protocol versus buying each product individually.
Q: Can I get personalized help before starting?
A: Yes. If you're unsure whether Clear & Bright Protocol II is right for you, schedule a complimentary virtual consultation with one of our in-house aestheticians to confirm the best protocol for your skin.
