BBL Laser Treatment

BBL (Broadband Light), also known as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), is a treatment that targets superficial pigment issues, such as brown spots, sun damage and red spots, and rosacea. The bright light passes through the epidermis, drawing out the pigment-producing cells and dispersing the uneven pigment. BBL laser treatments can be used on the face, neck, chest, shoulders, back arms, legs, and just about anywhere else.

In addition to addressing pigmentation concerns, we use the Sciton BBL device to correct and reduce the appearance of scars. This treatment is proven to reduce the appearance of surgical scarring or acne pitting/scarring on the face.

FAQ

What Areas Are Best for BBL Laser Treatments?

Anywhere on the body. We commonly will see this treatment used on the face, neck, chest, and hands, as those areas typically have the highest rate of UV exposure and therefore pigmentation. Or, if you are interested in scar treatment, we can begin administering BBL treatments 8 weeks postoperatively to improve their appearance.

How Does BBL Work?

BBL delivers pulses of intense light across a broad spectrum of wavelengths. Your skin absorbs the light energy, which heats the targeted area. Depending on the wavelength used, the heat can target pigment-containing cells (like sunspots) or damaged blood vessels (like those causing rosacea or cherry angiomas). The heat also triggers your body’s natural wound-healing response, which in turn boosts collagen production. Collagen is a protein that helps keep your skin firm and youthful.

What can I expect during my treatment?

Your aesthetician will thoroughly cleanse your skin, so you can either come with or without makeup. After the skin is clean, the aesthetician will apply a cool gel to your skin, which enhances the effect of the light waves. The aesthetician moves the laser over the skin in a grid-like pattern, flashing the light about every centimeter. Depending on your need, the aesthetician may go over the area multiple times.

By causing damage to the pigmented cells, they are destroyed and eventually eliminated by your body. This overall reduces the appearance of the targeted skin concern.

HALO is another laser treatment that we see frequently recommended alongside BBL, this treatment addresses deeper skin concerns and pigmentation.

What Can I Expect During My BBL Laser Treatment?

Ahead of a treatment, a skincare consultation will be performed to ensure this is the best choice for your skincare concerns. Your aesthetician will explain potential side effects and recovery and take photos so you both can assess progress.

Your aesthetician will thoroughly cleanse your skin, so you can either come with or without makeup. After the skin is clean, the aesthetician will apply a cool gel to your skin, which enhances the effect of the light waves. The aesthetician moves the laser over the skin in a grid-like pattern, flashing the light about every centimeter. A BBL Laser Treatment is generally not painful, but you may feel a warming or snapping sensation like a rubber band.

Depending on your needs, the aesthetician may go over the area multiple times. Typically, a full-face treatment will take about half an hour.

How Many Treatments Do I need?

For best results, 3-5 treatments are typically recommended, 4-6 weeks apart.

What is my downtime?

After the treatment, your aesthetician will clean your skin. It is normal to experience some temporary redness or puffiness following the treatment, which usually subsides overnight. It is important to stay out of direct sunlight or protect your skin with sunscreen and hats to protect your skin as it heals.

How Many Treatments Do I Need?

This depends on your specific concerns and desired outcome. We usually recommend a series of 3 treatments to adequately address pigmentation concerns. These are spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal results.

Is A BBL Laser Treatment Painful?

Any laser treatment can be a little uncomfortable, but BBL is not usually painful. Patients liken the feeling to a rubber band snapping on their skin.

How long will my results last?

Results perpetually improve over time, with the best results being seen at three months after the last treatment. Sun protection and skin care maintenance are essential to the longevity of the results. Sunburns and over-exposure will darken scars and make them more noticeable. Our Licensed Medical Aestheticians can recommend a skincare regimen that would help to protect your investment and keep your skin youthful and radiant for years to come.

Not sure if BBL Laser Treatment is right for you? Have any questions on pricing, post-operative results, or anything else? Call our office at 704-655-8988, start an online chat, or fill out our consultation form to get more information.