Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a non-invasive technology that utilizes high-intensity pulses of broad spectrum light to treat a range of skin conditions. During an IPL treatment, a handheld device emits bright pulses of light that penetrate the skin’s surface. The light energy is absorbed by specific targets within the skin, such as melanin (pigment) or hemoglobin (blood vessels). Different bands of light are preferentially absorbed by different elements within the skin, so different problems can be targeted with different bands: one band of light can treat fine capillaries and rosacea, another band can treat age spots or melasma, for instance.
Both IPL and lasers use bright, very brief flashes of light, but lasers use a single wavelength of light, while IPL employs multiple wavelengths within a specific range. Both lasers and IPL can be used for some problems, like spider veins or hair reduction, but IPL tends to be more effective for specific problems, like rosacea and melasma, that are more diffuse within the skin. Lasers are more effective for tasks like skin resurfacing.
BBL® Hero is a specific, powerful form of IPL. We use it to treat rosacea, fine spider veins, melasma, age spots, and other problems. It can also be used to reduce redness in postoperative or traumatic scars. BBL also has stimulatory effects on skin components, including collagen, so it can be used for rejuvenation, to improve skin quality. BBL® is well-tolerated, with no downtime or post treatment activity restrictions except avoiding strong sun exposure. Pain is minimal; most patients feel heat briefly at the treatment sites when the BBL® administers a flash of light. A series of treatments is used in most cases.
BBL® is effective for treating a variety of skin concerns, including age spots, sun damage, redness, rosacea, broken capillaries, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. It can also help improve overall skin texture and brightness. To get optimal results with advanced technologies like BBL®, you need skilled, experienced practitioners who are familiar not just with this device but with a wide range of treatment options, technologies, and combination therapies to individualize and optimize your treatment. Our advanced practice providers, supervised and trained by triple-board-certified Plastic Surgeon and Facial Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Steven Goldman, can help you determine if BBL® is right for you.
Forever Young is a specific treatment protocol that uses the BBL® device to help rejuvenate the skin and maintain a youthful appearance over time. BBL® treatments are used at regular intervals to stimulate the skin, including collagen and other dermal components. Most patients experience a brighter, more even complexion with reduced signs of aging and sun damage. Forever Young is usually used in combination with medical grade skin care and can be used with other maintenance treatments, like injectables, to keep you looking fresh and young.
The number of sessions required will vary based on your skin condition and treatment goals. Typically, patients need 3 to 6 sessions spaced a few weeks apart for optimal results. Problems like rosacea and melasma will progress over time, so patients may want to retreat periodically. Forever Young BBL® treatments can be repeated at regular intervals of approximately 6 months as part of a comprehensive long term skin care regimen.
A technologically advanced device like the BBL® achieves the best results when placed in the hands of a well-trained, medically oriented, compassionate practitioner, like the team members at Beachwood Plastic Surgery, Westlake Plastic Surgery, The Surgeon's Spa - Beachwood, and The Surgeon's Spa - Westlake.
