BroadBand Light (BBL) Treatment

BroadBand Light (BBL) therapy is a non-invasive and innovative treatment that utilizes advanced light technology to address a variety of skin concerns.

Developed by Sciton, BBL therapy is often employed in medical and aesthetic settings to improve the skin's appearance, target specific skin conditions, and promote overall skin rejuvenation.

At Grand Forks Dermatology & Aesthetics, we use the revolutionary Forever Young BBL from Sciton to send light energy deep into the skin to help reduce the appearance of brown spots, redness, broken capillaries, fine lines, and wrinkles.

How BroadBand Light Treatment Works

BBL therapy uses a broad spectrum of visible and infrared light to target specific color-absorbing (chromophores) molecules in the skin. These chromophores absorb energy from the light, leading to various therapeutic effects.

Unlike lasers that use a single, specific wavelength of light, BBL employs a broad spectrum of wavelengths. This spectrum can be adjusted and customized, allowing our practitioners to target different chromophores in the skin, such as melanin or hemoglobin.

BBL therapy can help to:

Address skin concerns like sun damage, age spots, freckles, and uneven skin tone.
Promote collagen production, improving skin texture and reducing the signs of aging.
Target the melanin in hair follicles for hair removal treatments, eventually reducing hair growth.
Treat and reduce acne-related redness and inflammation.
Target blood vessels to treat vascular lesions, such as certain types of birthmarks.

BBL and IPL

BBL is sometimes referred to as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). Both BBL and IPL are non-invasive light-based technologies used in dermatology and aesthetic treatments.

They are both used to address various skin concerns. And while the terms are often used interchangeably, it's important to note that BBL is a specific type of IPL technology.

The principal difference is in the precision and control offered by BBL systems. BBL enables more targeted treatments by allowing our providers to select specific wavelengths of light tailored to specific parameters.

With BBL, we can customize the wavelengths, pulse durations, and energy levels based on factors like skin type, condition, and desired results.

The precision, versatility, and safety have made it a popular choice in dermatology and aesthetics for non-invasive treatments.

What to Expect with BBL Treatments

At Grand Forks Dermatology & Aesthetics, the BBL treatment process is designed to be efficient, comfortable, and tailored to your unique needs. Here's an overview of what to expect during a BBL session:

You will begin with a personalized consultation where our practitioners assess your skin, discuss your concerns, and tailor a BBL treatment plan to meet your goals.
On the day of your BBL treatment, the targeted area will be cleansed, and a cooling gel may be used to improve the treatment effectiveness.
A handheld BBL device is gently placed on the skin, delivering precise bursts of light energy. Most patients describe the sensation as warm snapping or mild pinprick.
Treatment times depend on the size of the area being treated. Smaller areas may take as little as 5 minutes, while larger regions could range from 30 to 45 minutes.
BBL therapy is known for its safety and minimal discomfort. However, you may notice some redness, swelling, and sensitivity immediately after treatment. These side effects are typically short-lived, and our practitioners can provide guidance on managing any post-treatment reactions effectively.

Downtime and Results with BBL Treatments

BBL therapy typically has minimal downtime, thus making it a viable option for people with busy schedules. Results can differ based on the specific skin concern being addressed, and multiple sessions may be recommended for optimal outcomes.

Post-Treatment Care after BBL Treatment

After undergoing a BBL treatment at Grand Forks Dermatology & Aesthetics, it's essential to follow a few simple post-treatment care guidelines to optimize your results and ensure a smooth recovery:

Sun protection. Shield your treated skin from direct sunlight for at least a few weeks post-treatment. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher regularly, even on cloudy days.
Gentle skincare. Use mild and non-irritating skincare products to nurture your treated skin. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive exfoliants during the initial recovery period.
Hydration. Keep your skin well-hydrated by using a gentle moisturizer. Hydration aids in the healing process and maintains the skin's suppleness.
Avoid heat. Steer clear of hot baths, saunas, or activities that induce excessive heat on the treated area for a few days. Allow your skin to cool down naturally.
Minimal makeup. Consider minimizing makeup application on the treated area immediately after the procedure. Let your skin breathe and recover without additional layers.
Follow-up appointments. Be sure to attend your scheduled follow-up appointments. These are essential to your treatment and help assess your progress, address concerns, and plan for additional sessions if required.

Everyone's skin reacts differently, so if you have specific post-treatment care questions or notice any unexpected changes, don't hesitate to contact our experienced team for guidance.

Skilled BroadBand Treatments in Grand Forks

At Grand Forks Dermatology & Aesthetics, our commitment to advancing skincare and enhancing natural beauty is demonstrated in our use of state-of-the-art technologies like BBL therapy. We take pride in offering personalized and innovative solutions that rejuvenate, revitalize, and reveal the best version of you.

To schedule a consultation, please call us at (701) 775-5800 or request an appointment online.