If you’re considering getting a BroadBand Light (BBL) treatment, you’re probably curious about the ins and outs of the procedure—not to mention the risks, recovery, and results. Real-life before and after photos are an excellent way to visually demonstrate the restorative results you’ll see with this groundbreaking treatment. However, before we dive into before and after shots, it’s important that you understand what BBL is, what it treats, how it works, and how it differs from Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment.
The Distinction between BBL and IPL
If you’ve been looking into BBL, chances are you’ve also heard of a similar treatment called IPL. Despite the fact that many similarities exist between these laser treatments, BBL and IPL use different methods to achieve comparable results. We’ll help break it down for you.
BBL
BBL is a light therapy procedure that’s trademarked by Sciton, a medical device company specializing in lasers. BBL is used to improve the appearance of aging skin and to treat a range of skin conditions. This safe, noninvasive treatment targets many skin-related concerns, such as:
- Acne
- Rosacea
- Aging/age spots
- Pigmented skin
- Broken capillaries
- Freckles and sunspots
- Uneven skin texture
- And more
How it works: A laser uses light energy to heat the upper layers of the skin in order to stimulate new collagen production and improve the overall health of your skin. Because BBL only impacts the upper layers of the skin, it typically only requires 1-3 treatments.
IPL
IPL is also a noninvasive laser treatment that’s used to treat many skin-related conditions and concerns, some of which include:
- Sunspots
- Age spots
- Rosacea
- Redness
- Broken capillaries
- Enlarged pores
- And more
How it works: IPL uses a range of light waves to target issues with hemoglobin and melanin in the skin, which helps to make redness and dark spots much less visible. Because IPL treatments involve corrections to the underlayers of the skin, clients often require several treatments that are spaced a few weeks apart.
Despite taking different approaches, both treatments use light therapy to brighten the skin. BBL refers to the name of an IPL device that’s made by a specific manufacturer. Think of it this way: If BBL is Kleenex, then IPL is facial tissue. While there are some differences, at the end of the day, BBL and IPL are essentially one and the same.
The Real Deal: Before and After Photos
They say that a picture tells 1,000 words—and in this case, we couldn’t agree more! It’s hard to truly understand the incredible, long-term benefits of BBL treatment without seeing it for yourself. Check out some of the real-life before and after photos below to get an inside look at the results you can expect.
Important Things to Know about BBL
It’s no surprise if the “after” photos already have you convinced to schedule a BBL treatment; however, before you make an appointment, there are a few things to keep in mind about the procedure.
- The procedure is safe and noninvasive.
- The treatment feels warm and is comparable to a quick rubber band snap.
- The procedure takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes from start to finish.
- You may feel like you have a mild sunburn right after the procedure.
- It is safe to apply makeup immediately following BBL treatment.
- Patients normally see results after 1-3 treatments.
- You should avoid tanning beds/direct sunlight because of temporarily increased light sensitivity.
- Sunscreen is a must after BBL because your skin will be more vulnerable to UV rays.
BBL and IPL treatments are making it possible to revitalize and rejuvenate aging, damaged skin. An increasing number of people are recognizing the many different benefits of this advanced, light-based therapy. In addition to BBL having a wonderful reputation, the real-life before and after photos speak for themselves.
Do you have questions about BBL or IPL treatments and what they can do for you? Contact NOVA Plastic Surgery to learn more.
