WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT BROADBAND LIGHT
Broadband Light (BBL®), also referred to as intense pulsed light therapy (IPL), is an effective, non-invasive treatment used for a variety of cosmetic concerns including redness, brown spots, unwanted hair, and other types of skin discoloration. At North Metro Dermatology, we offer Sciton®’s state-of the-art light based technology for high quality, safe, and effective ways to help achieve radiant, beautiful skin with minimal downtime! Here are some commonly asked questions about it.
What is BBL for?
BBL can be used for a variety of cosmetic concerns, including
- Pigmented age spots, or sun spots
- Visible blood vessels and redness associated with rosacea
- Unwanted hair reduction
How does BBL work?
BBL is a versatile treatment that utilizes a broad spectrum of light to target various cosmetic skin concerns. The primary wavelengths used in BBL target the pigment in the skin, called melanin, and the hemoglobin in visible blood vessels to help minimize dark spots, redness, visible vessels, and unwanted hair
- Sun spots and pigmented lesions: Pigmented spots absorb light energy, which breaks down the melanin and causes the spots to fade over time. This results in a more even appearing skin tone.
- Visible vessels and redness: Hemoglobin is the protein in our blood that is responsible for oxygen transportation. Light energy from BBL is absorbed by hemoglobin in dilated blood vessels, causing them to break down and be naturally reabsorbed by the body. This helps reduce redness and dilated enlarged vessels often associated with rosacea.
Hair reduction: Light energy is absorbed by the pigment in hair follicles, inhibiting future hair growth. This works best for darker, thicker hair since the light energy is best absorbed by darker pigmentation.
How do I prepare for BBL?
Avoid any cosmetic or dermatological treatments, including tanning products, in the treatment areas for the 2 weeks prior to BBL. Tan skin can NOT be treated, so avoid any direct sun exposure or tanning lights the 2 weeks prior to treatment and always use an SPF 30+ sunscreen containing5% or higher zinc oxide on a daily basis. If recommended by the certified laser technician, take prescribed medication(s) to help prevent cold sores and/or infection and follow any specific skin prep guidelines to minimize risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Discontinue any retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, alpha and beta hydroxy acids, depilatory creams, or any other skin care regimen products that may cause skin irritation 3 days prior to BBL.
What can I expect during BBL?
You will be given protective eyewear while undergoing BBL treatment. The sensation of BBL is often described as feeling like a mild snapping (like the snap of a small rubber band) or warming feeling. The duration of treatment and number of sessions required depends on the specific skin concern(s) being addressed.
What can I anticipate after BBL?
What’s great about BBL is that it is a non-invasive procedure. Downtime can vary, but is pretty minimal, with most able to resume their regular activities shortly after treatment. A sunburn-like sensation may develop during BBL treatment and can last for up to several hours. Redness and swelling may develop right after BBL and last over several hours or days. Treated vessels may disappear, darken, lighten, bruise, or appear totally unchanged immediately after BBL, but should fade over days to weeks. Brown spots can appear darker shortly after BBL and will develop a scab-like appearance before sloughing from skin over 1-2 weeks on the face and 2-4 weeks on the body. You will be instructed to avoid strenuous activity, exercise, swimming, saunas, or steaming for at least 3 days, and avoid cosmetic and dermatological treatments until fully healed.
Any additional questions?
Because Sciton ® light-based technologies can treat a variety of skin conditions, we ask that you consult with our esthetician and certified laser technician to determine if BBL is right for you. Schedule a cosmetic consultation or dermatology appointment to learn more about BBL!