Hey Parker,
Great question! This has bothered me for a while since I got my new Mac.
It really is a bit too bright, and I cant dim it down like I can the older ones.
My solution so far is just have the screensaver come on quickly. As all the color settings are perfect for my PS work.
I havent dared use the third party stuff as yet, as I dont want to mess up my photo work.
Let us know if you have success.
Thanks,
Jane