Non-invasive cosmetic procedures that promote youthful-looking skin and natural beauty are taking precedence over plastic surgery. One of the more recent trends in skin rejuvenation involves using lasers and pulsed light to stimulate the growth of fresh new skin.
This article focuses on the BBL laser treatment and explains how the device’s intense light and heat energy improve a range of cosmetic issues, from acne and blemishes to wrinkles and lax skin.
What Is a BBL Laser Treatment?
BBL™ or BroadBand Light is a technology developed by Sciton as a next-generation version of the IPL photofacial treatment. The treatment involves using a BBL device, which sends light energy in a wide range of wavelengths and durations, achieving a variety of effects on the skin. The treatment is FDA-approved for skin rejuvenation and treating various skin irregularities.
Note: Read our article on the differences between IPL and BBL.
How Does a BBL Laser Work?
The BBL laser emits light energy in pulses, penetrating deep into the skin and causing micro-injuries to skin cells. The process triggers the body’s natural healing system, increasing collagen and elastin production, destroying dark pigment (melanin), and improving cell regeneration. The result is a smoother, tighter, and more glowing complexion.
Who Is a Good Candidate for BBL Laser Treatment?
BBL lasers are primarily designed to treat photoaging or premature aging signs caused by UV radiation.
Patients with the following skin types and conditions are good candidates for the treatment:
- Light to medium skin tones
- Dark spots and hyperpigmentation
- Acne and blemishes
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Redness and inflammation
- Rosacea
What Is the Best Age to a Get BBL Laser Treatment?
The ideal time for a BBL laser treatment depends more on the patient’s unique skin condition than their biological age. The treatment is generally suitable for anyone over 18 with sun-damaged or hyperpigmented skin. It is more effective on patients who start the sessions before developing severe and pronounced dark spots, wrinkles, and skin laxity.
BBL Laser Benefits
BBL laser therapy can treat a wide range of skin issues, thanks to the broad spectrum of wavelengths delivered. Patients can expect the following benefits from the treatment.
Reduced Hyperpigmentation
Freckles, dark spots, and other forms of hyperpigmentation occur when the body produces too much melanin due to environmental, hormonal, or other factors. The BBL laser selectively targets these pigment cells and destroys them, helping to even out and brighten the skin tone.
Clears Acne and Blemishes
Inflammation, excess sebum, and bacterial proliferation can lead to acne breakouts, blemishes, and other skin imperfections. The BBL laser uses different wavelengths (blue, red, etc.) to kill acne-causing bacteria, reduce inflammation and redness, and clear the skin.
Treats Spider Veins
Spider veins are veins that are damaged and appear like flat, dark, linear, or branching lines across the skin. The BBL laser targets hemoglobin in these blood vessels, which absorbs the light energy emitted. The spider veins collapse from the heat and fade over time.
Tightens Sagging Skin
The skin loses elasticity with collagen and elastin degradation due to aging, sun damage, and other factors. BBL lasers help stimulate the natural healing processes in the body, increasing collagen and elastin production and firming the skin.
Decreases Rosacea
Rosacea is a common skin condition, causing unpredictable episodes of redness, irritation, and sometimes acne-like bumps. BBL laser effectively reduces inflammation, reduces flare-ups, and removes thickened, damaged layers of skin.
Smooths Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Fine lines and wrinkles are among the first signs of sun damage and skin aging. BBL therapy increases collagen production and tightens the skin, helping to smooth wrinkles and reduce their appearance.
Treats Multiple Areas
The BBL device is precise and can target any area but is typically used on sun-damaged skin. The areas most exposed to sunlight include the face, neck, chest, arms, and shoulders.
Easy Recovery and No Downtime
BBL laser is a safe, FDA-approved treatment that causes no downtime. Patients can resume most daily activities right after the treatment.
Note: Learn how laser compares to chemical peels, another versatile cosmetic treatment.
How to Prepare for a BBL Laser?
To ensure the safety and effectiveness of the BBL procedure, skin experts recommend the following:
- Avoid tanning for four to six weeks.
- Don’t use tanning lotions for four weeks.
- Avoid smoking for 24-48 hours.
- Avoid alcohol for 24-48 hours.
- Consult your doctor about pausing medications that cause photosensitivity.
- Consult your doctor about taking antiviral medication if you are prone to cold sores.
- Stop taking retinoids for one week.
- Avoid other facial treatments (chemical peels, microdermabrasion) for two weeks.
Do I Need to Shave Before a BBL Laser?
Medical providers recommend shaving the day before the BBL laser treatment to ensure a smooth surface and easy laser penetration. The pigment in existing hairs on the skin may absorb the light energy from the BBL device, increasing the risk of burns.
What to Expect During a BBL Laser Treatment?
The medical provider first cleanses the treatment area. They may apply a topical numbing cream 30-60 minutes before the procedure. The provider then applies a cooling gel and puts safety goggles or glasses on the patient’s eyes to protect them from the laser beam.
The provider passes a handheld BBL device over the patient’s skin, making sure it has close contact with the skin. The device emits intense pulsed light, manifesting as interrupted flashes. The patient may feel a hot or tingling sensation. The procedure takes 15-30 minutes, after which the patient can resume their daily activities.
Note: Learn how laser works for permanent hair removal.
How Painful Is a BBL Laser?
The BBL treatment is not painful because the medical providers apply numbing creams and cooling gels beforehand. Patients may feel slight tingling, warmth, and minimal discomfort.
BBL Laser Treatment Results
BBL patients typically notice improvements in skin tone and texture within one week. The results manifest differently for each patient, depending on what they are treating.
Patients with hyperpigmentation should note that they will experience a worsening in their condition before things get better. This is because the dark pigment becomes darker and rises to the surface of the skin. The dark flecks peel off after a few days.
Most patients need several treatments spaced a few weeks apart to achieve desired results and maintenance treatments every six months. Patients can maintain results for years with regular treatments.
How Long Will My Face Be Swollen After a BBL Laser?
Swelling is one of the common side effects of a BBL treatment. It varies in severity. Patients can decrease and manage swelling with cold compresses. This side effect usually lasts several days.
Does Your Face Peel After BBL?
The skin usually peels after a BBL treatment because it starts to shed pigmented cells. The flaking and peeling start a week or two after the procedure and last for several days.
Do Dark Spots Come Back After BBL?
Dark spots usually appear darker after the treatment as the skin clears excess pigment. The effect is temporary. The treated hyperpigmentation doesn’t return, however, new dark spots can appear without sun protection.
BBL Laser Aftercare
Follow these aftercare recommendations to ensure a quick recovery and optimal results:
- Avoid tanning for four weeks.
- Use sunscreen with SPF 30+.
- Use gentle skincare products for several days.
- Avoid saunas and other sources of heat for several days.
- Avoid high-intensity workouts for several days.
- Don’t rub or apply pressure on the treated area.
- Use lukewarm water to wash the treated area.
- To minimize swelling, apply a cold compress to the treated area.
- Avoid alcohol for 24-48 hours.
BBL Laser Side Effects
BBL is a safe, FDA-approved treatment for healthy adults. It doesn’t require downtime, but can cause mild side effects that typically last up to one week and include:
- Redness
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Warmth in the treated area
- Discomfort
Who Is Not a Good Candidate for BBL Laser?
BBL lasers are not suitable for everyone. Medical providers advise people with the following conditions to choose an alternative procedure (e.g., microneedling, chemical peels, etc.).
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Dark skin tone
- Active acne
- Skin infections and open wounds
- History of keloid scars
- Melasma
- Autoimmune diseases
- Recent radiation therapy
- Epilepsy
- Certain medications
Consult your doctor about potential risks before scheduling the treatment.
BBL Laser FAQ
The following questions and answers can help you better understand the potential risks and benefits of the BBL treatment.
When Is the Best Time to Get BBL Laser?
The best time for a BBL treatment is in the fall or winter, when the tan acquired during the summer has faded and the skin is less exposed to the sun. This reduces the risk of post-treatment pigmentation and ensures the best results.
BBL Laser Cost
At Vibrant Skin Bar, one BBL laser treatment costs $349.
If you are in the Phoenix, Arizona area, visit us at Vibrant Skin Bar. Our dedicated and experienced team of skincare professionals will evaluate your skin issues and create a personalized BBL treatment plan to restore your skin’s natural glow.
Does Insurance Cover a BBL Laser Treatment?
Insurance plans generally do not cover BBL and other laser resurfacing treatments because they are considered non-essential, aesthetic procedures. For more information, contact your insurance provider.
Is BBL Laser Better Than IPL?
IPL and BBL are both photofacial treatments that use intense pulsed light to treat sun-damaged skin. The procedures are similar and they treat the same conditions. However, BBL uses a more advanced technology, delivering superior and quicker results. It has a superior cooling system, enhanced safety, and more customizable options. It is a better option for patients with prominent signs of aging.
Conclusion
The BBL laser is a more recent addition to laser resurfacing treatments. It uses precise, cutting-edge technology to treat various skin conditions caused by sun exposure and aging. It provides impressive results without causing downtime and undesired side effects.
Choose a reputable, experienced medical provider for your BBL session to avoid any health risks and undesired outcomes.
