IPL, Make Way for BBL
For decades, the simplest way to fade away diffuse widespread discoloration has been IPL (intense pulsed light, also known as photo facial). Standard IPL is still effective, but BBL is the most powerful light technology available today.
What Skin Conditions Can Be Treated with BBL?
- Sun damage and poor skin texture
- Flushing, redness and broken capillaries
- Brown spots and Age spots
- Sun-induced freckles on the hands, chest, and face
- Large pores and fine wrinkles
Changing "Misbehaving" Skin
Photodamage is the result of ultraviolet light exposure. Cellular changes occur, which tend to recruit more negative cell changes, increasing the way your skin is “misbehaving”. That’s the brown spots, coarse skin, spider veins and tone loss. Broadband Light treatments are designed to combat the effects of aging and help maintain younger skin properties.
In a sense, the BBL procedure reverses many of the negative cell changes and recruits cell behavior that does behave. Periodic BBL treatments keep your skin looking youthful, clear and smooth.
A series of BBL treatments can offer many of the same benefits of a medium depth laser resurfacing or chemical peel without blisters, burns or long recovery time.
How Does BBL Work?
The basic light is full spectrum. By using filters to block different wavelengths of the light, we can specifically fine-tune your treatment to target the skin problems that are unique to you. This is a distinct advantage over traditional IPL phototherapy.
BBL Filters Let Us Specifically Treat:
- Reds such as flushing, rosacea and even acne inflammation
- Browns such as age spots, freckles and sun spots
- Yellow browns such as early diffuse pigmentation from sun exposure
- Loss of skin firmness accompanied by fine wrinkles
Slideshow below demonstrates treatment outcomes following BBL light
Am I A Good Candidate for BBL Treatments?
Ideal candidates for BBL treatments are those who have dark spots, uneven skin pigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles on their skin that they want to eliminate. Those who have realistic expectations about how the results of their treatment will make their skin look will benefit the most from this procedure.
If you have had recent sun exposure or recently tanned, this treatment may not be recommended for you. If you use photo-sensitizing medications or Accutane within the last six to 12 months, laser treatment can also lead to dangerous side effects. We recommend consulting with your primary doctor to see your options for stopping your medication before your BBL treatment. This procedure is not recommended for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How Can I Prepare for My BBL Treatment?
When you take care to prepare for your upcoming BBL treatment, it can help your procedure to go smoothly and quickly. Some actions patients take before beginning treatment include:
- Avoid sun exposure for two weeks before your treatment
- Use a sunscreen with 30+ SPF to protect your skin from the sun's UV rays, which can clash with the technology used in laser therapy
- Avoid smoking at least six weeks before your treatment
- Avoid medications such as blood thinners, but do not discontinue prescribed medications without consulting your prescribing physician
- Consult your doctor about discontinuing antibiotics before any laser therapy
- Avoid strong acne products that include a retinoid
- Avoid exfoliating the skin of the treated area
What Happens After BBL Treatments?
Shortly after treatment, the unwanted pigment granules (melanin) have been thoroughly fragmented without damage to the surrounding tissue. Vascular lesions (spider veins) also coagulate and shrink, many of them disappearing altogether. Skin tone and texture improve as a result of heat deposits into the tissue.
In the weeks after treatment, the now tiny melanin particles are eliminated by your body’s own little “clean up” system that absorbs fragmented pigment. Little or no trace of the initial pigmentation spots or spidery veins remain.
How Many BBL Treatments Will I Need Before I See Results?
Although most patients are thrilled to notice improved changes in their skin within one week of their first BBL treatment, most patients do need multiple sessions to achieve optimal results. Skin tone, pigmentation, scarring, and wrinkles will disappear within a week of your first BBL treatment, but our team recommends having at least three to four sessions to achieve truly clear, smooth, and radiant-looking skin. Over the course of these four sessions, you will begin to notice small changes in your skin. Patients are often satisfied with their results after their treatment, from the elimination of fine lines to the disappearance of redness and age spots.
How Long Will My Results from BBL Treatments Last?
Your BBL treatment results can last between three to four months. However, if you commit to three or four sessions a year and allow our highly dedicated team to help you maintain your desired look, these results can last longer. The number of treatments you need a year can depend on your skin and aesthetic goals, but we are happy to work with you to discuss your needs during your initial consultation.
Because your skin will improve after each session, your next BBL treatment will always improve already improved skin. So the more sessions you have, the more smoother, brighter, and clearer your skin will be. Many patients report that after several treatments, their skin gives off the impression of a reversal in aging, leaving them looking younger, healthier, and happier than ever.
What is the BBL Recovery Process Like?
Because the treatment is gentle, there is no interruption of routine activities. Pigment rises to the surface and looks and feels a bit like coffee grounds. Let them exfoliate naturally to avoid interfering with the process which takes generally a little under a week. Trust us – it’s worth the patience.
Broadband Light Therapy - The Path to Better Skin
There are a variety of ways to reduce pigmentation and improve sun damage. Each patient will have a different and individualized recommendation. Your skin type will likely respond better to one type of treatment over another.
Whereas BBL is correct for some, your selected skin rejuvenation treatment might be Cosmelan or Photodynamic Therapy or even a series of mild chemical peels. This is where having an experienced dermatologist makes the difference in a successful and safe treatment regimen.
Dr. Fitzgerald always proceeds with the necessary caution that’s required to get the best results – even if this means more frequent visits. BBL treatments stimulate the growth of new collagen, so over the next few months, your skin tone and texture will continue to improve, making it more vibrant and younger looking.
Despite the many “instant fix” promises you hear about, it is often careful and continued slower mix of treatments that keep your skin looking youthful and clear.
Consultations Provide an Educated and Effective Plan
Please call 323-464-8046 or contact our office online to schedule a one-on-one BBL consultation with Dr. Fitzgerald. We welcome patients throughout the Los Angeles area, including Beverly Hills, Larchmont, and more.
