Here at Geelong, Veins, Skin and Laser, we are often asked, “What is the difference between Broadband Light Treatment (BBL) and Intense Pulsed Light Treatment (IPL)”?
Ultimately, BBL and IPL share the same definitive goal, to direct light energy into the skin which is then converted to heat as it reaches its target. They both aim to cause damage to the target tissue and in turn eliminate the skin concern. The main distinguishable difference between the two comes down to the technology.
BBL (Broadband Light) Treatment is considered the latest and most advanced form of light therapy within the medical, cosmetic industry today. BBL is also considered a more accurate and precise treatment method than IPL (Intense Pulsed Light). There are fewer complications, little down downtime and fewer treatments needed to reach the desired outcome. BBL is definitely one of our most popular dermal treatments here at Geelong, Veins, Skin and Laser.
We incorporate an array of wavelengths whilst treating with the Sciton Forever Young Broadband Light Treatment (BBL) in order to treat conditions such as:
- Rosacea
- Capillaries
- Freckles
- Pigmentation disorders
- Uneven skin tone
- Acne
- Sun spots
- Liver spots
- Fine lines & wrinkles
- Loss of elastin
- Large pores
Pigmentation
BBL therapy has the ability to target and treat pigmentation concerns. As the heat and light produced by the BBL energy pass through the skin, it is absorbed by abnormal concentrations of melanin, causing shattering of the melanin pigment. Downtime is mild. Usually, clients will experience brown crusting on the surface of the skin, likened to the appearance of coffee grinds or Milo powder. These flecks will begin to flake away after three days.
Whether your pigmentation appears in the form of freckles or solar lentigines (sun spots, liver spots, etc) these can be successfully treated usually within four times Broadband Light Treatment sessions, placed four weeks apart in order to allow for adequate healing time in between.
Vessels/Redness
Capillaries and unsightly red vessels, as well as rosacea, can also be treated using this form of light therapy. Haemoglobin in vessels will absorb the heat and light produced by BBL, causing coagulation of the blood vessels. Broken capillaries will undergo immediate greying or blanching or a slight purple discolouration.
Downtime includes mild redness or swelling, usually resolving in two to three days. The vessels will either fully or partially dissolve within two weeks, by this time we like to perform a follow-up treatment.
Acne
With our Sciton BBL machine, we also have the ability to treat acne sufferers. Using a shorter wavelength and blue light filter, BBL will help attack p-acne bacteria through oxygenation. Pairing BBL with an appropriate night and daily skin care regime, tailored specifically by our dermal clinicians, you will see clearer skin usually within six times BBL treatments spaced two weeks apart.
Ageing
BBL is also a great treatment to be used in delaying the signs of ageing with extensive studies proving that BBL does not only act as a preventative measure but also causes the DNA expression of skin cells to reverse, essentially taking your skin back in time. Regular treatments have proven to stimulate the production of elastin and collagen, forming a tightening effect on the skin and in turn creating a more youthful appearance.
A skin analysis with our qualified dermal therapists’ is essential in determining if you are the right candidate for Broadband Light Treatment. We aim to treat each of you individually, based on your particular concerns. Therefore, we work hand in hand with you to create a treatment plan that will be best suited to you, your lifestyle and your skin! Book in with Geelong Veins, Skin and Laser’s dermal therapists for your complimentary skin analysis.