Broad-Band Light (BBL)

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Individuals with sun-damaged skin, age spots, freckles, acne, rosacea, or visible blood vessels are good candidates for BBL. Candidates must have realistic expectations and relatively healthy skin.

You may notice some improvement immediately, but the full results typically develop over several weeks as the skin heals and rejuvenates. For optimal results, a series of at least three BBL Forever Young treatments spaced a few weeks apart may be recommended. BBL Forever Clear typically requires at least six treatments spaced two to three weeks a apart.

The results from BBL can last several months or longer, depending on the individual’s skin type, condition, and post-treatment care regimen.

BBL typically requires no significant downtime. Following the treatment, mild redness or swelling may occur, usually subsiding within a few hours. If you are treating brown spots, they will first get darker and will then lighten in about a week or two.

The treatment involves wearing protective eye-wear. A handheld device passes over the target areas and emits light pulses. You may feel warm as the light is applied, but the treatment is fairly quick and generally well-tolerated.

• Wait at least 6 months post Accutane/isotretinoin use, as it may compromise the skin’s protective barrier.
• Wait at least 24 hours post neurotoxin or filler (injections may be done immediately after).
• If you are pregnant or nursing, please consult with your healthcare provider first.
• Certain autoimmune conditions, particularly those affecting the skin, may increase the risk of adverse reactions and can impair healing. Please consult with your healthcare provider first.
• If you have a history of keloid scars, you may be at higher risk for developing scars after laser treatment.
• If you have a history of skin cancer, especially melanoma, or precancerous lesions in the treatment area, please consult with your healthcare provider first as this treatment could potentially affect malignant cells.
• Individuals with pacemakers, internal defibrillators, or a history of photo-sensitivity should avoid BBL treatments, depending on the area being treated.
• Avoid medications that increase sensitivity to light (antibiotics) 5-7 days before your treatment.  If you have prescription, consult with your healthcare provider before discontinuing.
• Discontinue use of aggressive exfoliants, Retinol/Tretinoin, AHA/BHA products, bleaching, waxing, depilatory creams, or any other exfoliating products in the treatment area 5-7 days prior to treatment.
• Remove reflective or metallic items like jewelry in the treatment area.  If piercings cannot be removed, they will be avoided during treatment.
• Shave any dark hair in the treatment area 12-24 hours  prior to procedure (or add on a dermaplane!) Beards on those who do NOT wish to have hair loss in that area do not have to shave. The bearded area will be avoided during  treatment since BBL can cause minimal hair reduction.
• BBL cannot be performed on tanned or dark skin. We recommend other melanin skin safe lasers such as Moxi, Halo, or Laser Genesis instead, depending on what your skin concerns are.
• Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and self/gradual self tanners for at least 2 weeks prior to procedure. You will not be able to receive a BBL if you are tanned.
• Please inform us if you have a history of melasma on the face.
• If the treatment area has compromised skin (dermatitis, sunburn, open wounds) or you are experiencing an active skin infection (cold sores), the procedure should be postponed until the condition is resolved.

• Redness and mild swelling is normal and typically resolves within a few hours. Cold compresses may be used to provide comfort during this time, as well as Vitamin E or Aloe Vera. 
• Makeup may be applied immediately after as long as skin integrity has not been compromised.
• While the skin is healing, avoid all of the following in the treatment area: aggressive exfoliants, Retinol/Tretinoin, AHA/BHA products, bleaching, waxing, depilatory creams, shaving, rough cloths, cleansing brushes, scented lotions or soaps, and perfumes/cologne.
• Avoid strenuous exercise, sweating, heat, saunas, hot tubs, and swimming pools for at least 3 days.
• Avoid sun and outdoor sports/activities for one week. Wear mineral SPF at all time when outdoors.
• If redness in the face (vascularity) is treated with BBL, it is recommended to avoid alcohol, spicy foods, and caffeine for 24 hours post treatment.
• Do not receive additional skin treatments (laser, microneedling, facial, etc.) or any procedure in the treatment area for 2 weeks.
• Freckles and sunspots may initially turn slightly darker and then flake off within 1-2 weeks. This is a desired and normal reaction. It is pulling pigmentation to the surface to work itself out of the epidermis. Treated vessels may look somewhat smudgy or less defined for the first few days.
• The treated area is more prone to sunburn and pigmentation change for the first 1-2 weeks. If direct sun exposure is necessary during the first couple weeks, wear a hat or clothing that covers the treated area along with an SPF 30 or higher, reapplying every 2 hours.