the lowdown on
BBL (Broad Band Light)
🚨Before we get into the fun stuff, it is absolutely imperative that you CANNOT have a tan of any kind (regular or fake) for at least 2 weeks before treatment. Treatment of tanned skin can increase the risk of blistering and/or permanent skin discoloration. 🚨
PROLONGED SUN EXPOSURE IS TO BE AVOIDED FOR 2 WEEKS BEFORE AND AFTER TREATMENTS.
What is it and what does it do?
Broad Band Light [BBL] is the newer/more technological version of IPL. BBL utilizes light waves to target pigment/redness on various layers of the skin. This light energy targets the skin cells affected by aging and stimulates your body’s ability to regenerate fresh new skin cells. It reverses the damage done to your skin as a result of sustained sun exposure and the aging process. It is the only treatment of its kind capable of changing the expression of the genes associated with longevity, increased lifespan, and aging.
What this treatment targets:
skin laxity
Active Acne
acne scars
bruising (post injection)
Cherry angiomas
roseacea
broken capillaries
hair removal
freckles/sun spots
wine stains
Who can use it?
Anyone looking to stimulate collagen & prevent aging, except for those with Fitz 6 skin types for risk of extreme burning.
How many treatments are recommended?
for best results we recommend 3-6 treatments, with maintenance/touch ups 2-3 times a year. Depending on specific goals and desired results, you may need more sessions!
Downtime-
BBL has minimal downtime allowing for a quick return back to your regular scheduled programming!
It’s normal to have a little bit of redness for 24-48 hours post treatment and we ask to avoid sun exposure, saunas, hot tubs, tanning beds 7-10 days post treatment
It’s important to keep your internal temperature down for 24-48 hours post treatment such as strenuous exercise, and hot showers
You may experience some redness in the treatment area that should resolve within a few hours
You may notice darkening of your pigmented spots, followed by fading and flaking off at a later stage
What’s the process?
You come in at your appointment time for pics and to make sure paperwork/consents are squared away. If you have a tan of any kind, we’ll have to reschedule the appointment completely. Then, we’ll get down to the treatment!
The procedure is typically gentle and safe
There is no need for topical anesthetic, however, your clinician may choose to use it
Your eyes will be protected with safety shields or glasses
You may briefly feel a warm or rubber band snap sensation as the light is absorbed
How to prepare/do’s & don’ts-
Use sunscreen and physical sun protection
Avoid extended sun exposure, i.e. beach, travel to sunny locations, sunbathing, sports outdoors
Inform your BBL clinician if any physician has ordered Accutane or something similar for you in the last 6 months
Inform your clinician of any medical conditions or medications you are taking that might sensitize you to light, affect wound healing or affect coagulation
Skincare do’s and don’ts after appointment-
CLEANSING
Cleanse the skin two times a day with plain, lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, beginning the morning after the treatment. Use your hands and gentle patting motions. DO NOT rub, scrub, use an exfoliant or skin care brush such as a Clarisonic on the treated area.
MOISTURIZER
Moisturizer should be applied generously with clean hands over treated area and reapplied whenever your skin feels dry. DO NOT apply any other products that were not instructed by your doctor - eg. essential oils, coconut oil, etc.
SUNSCREEN
Sunscreen is a MUST and should be used daily beginning the day after treatment and used consistently for up to 3 months post procedure. Use a physical sunscreen with Broadband UVA and UVB protection and a SPF of 30. Ensure to reapply during sun exposure.
TIPS & TRICKS
Use soft cloth and soft towels to avoid any scrubbing
Make-up can typically be worn once the peeling process is complete
Wear a wide-brimmed hat or protective clothing for 2 months post treatment to avoid blistering, scarring, hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation
When showering, avoid getting shampoo directly on the treated area
Avoid strenuous exercise and sweating until after skin has healed
WATCH-OUTS
If the treated area is especially warm within the first 12 hours after the treatment, a cold compress or ice pack can be used to provide comfort
If the skin appears red or swollen (sunburn sensation), an ice pack can provide comfort, same as Vitamin E or Aloe Vera applied to the treatment area. In rare cases, oral pain relievers, i.e. Extra Strength Tylenol or Advil, may be used
While the skin is healing, avoid anything that will irritate the skin, such as exfoliants, shaving, too hot or too cold water and swimming pools and spas with multiple chemicals/chlorine
Other important info to note-
LET US KNOW IF YOU HAVE light induced seizures or light sensitivity!