Far superior to IPL, Sciton’s BBL (broadband light) photofacial treatment delivers better results in less treatments. BBL offers a full range of photo-rejuvenation treatments for reversing sun damage, rosacea, brown spots, acne and broken blood vessels. Any part of the body can be treated with little downtime. According to a Stanford study, BBL treatments 2-4 times per year can reverse and prevent aging of the skin by keeping the genes of youth turned on.
What is a BBL Photofacial?
BroadBand Light therapy is a safe, FDA-cleared anti-aging treatment used to treat sun damage and uneven skin texture and tone.
How does the BBL Photofacial work?
BBL uses short blasts of high-intensity light. The energy from the light will gently heat the upper layers of skin, stimulating your skin cells to regenerate new collagen. Your skin will be restored to the firmer, smoother skin of your youth. The same energy that generates new collagen growth can shrink fine blood vessels that cause redness, and reduce excess melanin associated with sun damage.
What can I expect with the treatment?
Your laser expert will evaluate your skin and discuss your treatment goals. Skin will be prepped and cool ultrasound gel applied. During the BBL treatment, your eyes will be covered and protected but you may still see flashing lights. The flash of the light on the skin will feel like a rubberband snap. After treatment, the skin may be red for a few hours and feel like a sunburn. If your skin has brown discolorations from sun damage, you will see a coffee ground appearance for 1-2 weeks. No peeling occurs post treatment.
Does BBL Photofacial hurt?
BBL is a quick treatment but can feel uncomfortable for some. Most patients do well. We use a Zimmer cooler to blow cold air on the area being treated to minimize heat and discomfort. We also have Pronox available, if desired.
How many treatments are needed?
Your skin will look smoother with pore reduction and a signficant reduction in brown and red discoloration after only one treatment; however, for optimal results, we recommend 2-4 treatments. For rosacea and broken blood vessels, 3-5 treatments, at 4-6 week intervals are recommended for best results. We recommend maintenance for the best anti-aging results based on the Stanford study with treatments 2-4 times per year.
As an integral part of many patients’ long-term skin maintenance plan, the powerful results of Forever Young BBL can be used to improve skin texture, clarity and restore your skin’s youthful glow. For long-term results and skin maintenance, a proper skin care regimen is necessary to protect from UV damage, stimulate collagen production and encourage natural exfoliation. Pair any of our treatments with Mikel Kristi Skin Care for optimal long-term results and anti-aging.
What is the difference between BBL and IPL?
Both BBL and IPL are photofacial treatments. These are light based devices that rejuvenate the skin. A BBL, however, is a more powerful photofacial and can achieve more in one session than an IPL. During the treatment, the first pass of energy over the skin is called “Forever Young”. This pass stimulates collagen and elastin and brings out certain skin imperfections such as pigmentation and redness. Specific filters are then used to target these issues. This method of multiple passes in conjunction with the cooling technology allows for a safer, more effective treatment and yields superior results per session.
Is it laser treatment?
No. It uses various wavelengths of light to rejuvenate skin.
What should I expect with the treatment?
This is a no downtime procedure. Patients can return to their normal daily activities immediately after their treatment. There may be slight pinkness of the skin or darkening of pigmentation. Sunblock is applied in the office after the treatment and patients may then apply any makeup if desired. Dark spots will darken further over the next few days to week and will flake off.
How will BBL improve the appearance of my skin?
BBL photofacial treatments improve dull skin leaving it more radiant and hydrated. Results can be seen almost immediately to 2 weeks later and there is a cumulative effect with repeat treatment. It will correct areas of pigmentation such as sunspots and freckles, improve redness including capillaries around the nose, improve pore size and fine lines. BBL will also help to improve acne by killing the underlying bacteria, decreasing oil production and minimizing redness.
How often should I get a BBL Photofacial?
BBL photofacials give the best results when done in series. Usually a series of 3 treatments, one month apart is recommended. After that, a maintenance program of 2-3 per year is recommended.