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Dermatologists Northbridge Sydney | Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology

Broadband Light - Corrective BBL

What is Broadband Light?

Broadband Light (BBL) is currently the worlds most advanced and effective Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) device available. BBL is able to deliver a superior level of results for a wide variety of skin conditions and concerns through the use of a broad selection of wavelengths and setting applications, which allows for both effective and personalised treatments.

BBL generates a specific photo thermal injury by delivering light into the skin, which then converts to heat and creates a controlled tissue response. The light is attracted to specific chromophores, or targets within the skin such as haemoglobin (when treating vascular lesions) or melanin (when treating pigmentation concerns). The BBL light is drawn to these targets and then the heat conversion is able to damage and break down these components. The damaged cells will then be eliminated through the natural removal process within the body and the regeneration process begins, allowing for a brighten and healthier looking complexion.

What can BBL treat? +

BBL is able to treat and improve the appearance of:

  • Sun damage, age spots and freckles
  • Poikiloderma of Civatte
  • Redness; dilated capillaries, diffused redness and small facial cherry angiomas
  • Rosacea (types I and II)
  • Uneven skin tone

What areas can be treated? +

The BBL device is able to perform successful treatments, particularly on the face, neck, chest and hands. Depending on the presenting condition BBL may be used to treat other areas of the body once a skin analysis has been performed by one of our Dermal Clinicians.

How many treatments are required? +

The severity of the skin condition or concern will determine your specific treatment plan and this will be discussed and explained to you by a Dermal Clinician during your initial consult.

  • Many of our patients are ecstatic with the results they receive after just one session of BBL. However, in order to achieve optimal long term results, a series of 3-6 treatments is recommended at 4-6 week intervals
  • Maintenance sessions may also be recommended to prolong results and these are often performed annually, depending on desired results

What is involved in the BBL treatment? +

BEFORE YOUR TREATMENT

  • Ensure you come to your BBL appointment with no makeup or fake tan on the area you wish to have treated
  • We recommend you cease any active products (e.g. retinol, AHAs etc.) or prescription topical agents for 3-5 days before your treatment
  • Avoid sun exposure for at least 2-4 weeks before your treatment

DURING YOUR TREATMENT

  • Protective eyewear will be provided and applied before the treatment begins
  • The BBL treatment is very tolerable, but at times you may feel short flicks of heat on the skin
  • Treatment gel will be applied to the skin to assist in the light delivery and to reduce treatment discomfort
  • You can expect to feel short flicks of heat on the skin, but this is usually minimal and tolerated well
  • Once the treatment has finished, the gel is removed and your Dermal Clinician will apply calming and protective products on to your skin
  • The treatment usually only takes 20- 30 minutes depending on the size of the area being treated

AFTER YOUR TREATMENT

  • Typically, the skin settles quickly following BBL treatments and makeup can be used to camouflage expected skin responses
  • Skin may feel a bit warm and appear a bit red, similar to a mild sunburn or exercise flush. This usually disappears within a few hours after the treatment
  • Any existing pigmentation and imperfections will appear 1-2 shades darker and this takes approximately seven days to completely resolve

How to take care of your skin after the treatment +

To ensure you get the best results from your BBL treatments we recommend the following:

  • Downtime can range from 1-7 days depending on the condition being treated
  • Use the specific aftercare products that your Dermal Clinician has recommended to you
  • Avoid direct sun exposure and use SPF 50+ daily
  • Avoid excessive exercise or activities that increase heart rate and body temperature for approximately 3 days’ post treatment
  • Avoid exfoliating the skin for at least 7-10 days’ post treatment. This includes both chemical and physical exfoliating products
  • A cosmeceutical skincare routine will be developed for you to enhance and maintain your results

What are the risks and suitability of BBL treatment? +

With any cosmetic treatment, there are associated risks and complications. These risks are rare and can be dramatically reduced and managed well if you adhere to the instructions and advice given to you by our Dermal Clinicians.

  • Treatment can cause unwanted hypopigmentation (skin lightening)
  • Treatment can cause unwanted hyperpigmentation (skin darkening)
  • Burns and blisters
  • Bruising
  • Scarring

If you are pregnant, please call us to ascertain if BBL can be performed.

BBL is not suitable if:

  • If you are currently on isotretinoin or other acne medications
  • If you are currently taking certain photosensitising medications
  • If you have had any other recent cosmetic treatments such as cosmetic injectables or other light therapies in the last two weeks