For brown spots, what's the best treatment, IPL vs Clear & Brilliant?

A combination approach will give the most improvement. Dark spots can be improved with a combination of lasers (IPL, Fraxel, Tattoo), Aerolase, microneedling/prp, skin lightening, peels, and skin care. Sun protection is essential. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Clear + Brilliant Perméa is safe but would offer only minor improvements for brown spots after a series of 4-6 treatments. IPL would offer more significant improvements, but may be risky for your skin type.
The safest treatment with the most dramatic improvements for brown spots would be PicoSure Focus. PicoSure shatters pigment and does not rely on heat like most lasers, making it ideal for patients with darker skin tones.
With PicoSure, you will see significant improvements after your first treatment, with a series of 2-3 for optimal results. We have treated a number of Asian patients with pigmentation who are all very pleased with their outcomes.