We know that lasers combat the signs of aging and sun damage with innovative light therapy. These treatments leave you with a refreshed, rejuvenated and youthful appearance. But did you know that there is a difference between Broad Band Light (BBL™) and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)? Read on to learn more.
WHAT IS BROAD BAND LIGHT?
BBL™ is light energy that is used to repair and regenerate skin cells. It is polychromatic, comprised of two or more colors, and a mixture of wavelengths all at one time. It is visible light on our electromagnetic spectrum – you can see it. BBL™ reacts with many targets, including melanin (brown), hemoglobin (red), and water. A flash lamp is used to produce many wavelengths at the same time, and one piece of equipment can perform several different types of treatments. Treatments include photo rejuvenation, skin tightening, acne therapy and hair removal, all while targeting multiple skin depths. BBL™ light also stimulates collagen production as light waves gently heat deeper layers of the skin, which reduce the appearance of fine lines and scars.
BBL™ is the latest and most advanced technology in light therapy that is FDA approved. It is an option for treating a wider range skin conditions associated with aging and pigmentation irregularities, with little to no downtime. It can be customized and controlled and is more than an enhanced version of IPL. In fact, it is best described as the next generation of IPL. BBL™ is IPL but supercharged! BBL™ was created by Sciton – a leader in the laser and light industry – who provide advanced lasers and light sources to the aesthetic medical market. Sciton is the only manufacturer of BBL™ technology. In contrast, there are dozens of IPL device manufacturers on the market today.
IPL – INTENSE PULSED LIGHT OVERVIEW
Intense pulsed light, or IPL, treatments have been around since the mid-1990s. It was used in the aesthetic medical market to treat sun damage, age spots, rosacea, flushing and enlarged pores using targeted flashing light waves. IPL is a technology that uses high-intensity light to produce firmer, younger-looking skin with improved tone and texture, and increased collagen production.
Unlike BBL™, IPL is monochromatic, and precisely one wavelength. It is collimated; the size of the laser stays the same through time and space. IPL light is not visible, and it reacts with only one target – water. Since skin cells are made up of 99% water, they are vaporized on contact. This is what makes laser a great tool for addressing texture-it will literally remove the layers of cells to change the texture. Like BBL™, the range of light waves in an IPL treatment target melanin (brown) and hemoglobin (red), helping to eliminate areas of discoloration.
SO WHY CHOOSE BBL™ OVER IPL?
The state-of-the-art technology of Broad Band Light sets the standard when it comes to skin rejuvenation. BBL™ is the only treatment that can change the expression of genes associated with aging and longevity. This means BBL™ restores the genetic aging pattern of the skin. If you want to change the way you age, you want BroadBand Light. The BBL™ machine has multiple, high tech, skin-specific light filters for the most customizable treatment. The BBL™ hand pieces are equipped with advanced cooling features for comfort and safety. It can use potent, high-powered energy with minimal pain, side effects, and post-treatment recovery.
Patients typically require fewer treatments of BBL™ to successfully address their concerns.
Depending on your skin type and goals, we may recommend 1-3 sessions of BBL™, spaced 3-4 weeks apart. IPL photo facials require up to 6 treatments, spaced 4 weeks apart.
