PHOTOREJUVENATION (BBL)

How does IPL/BBL work?

IPL works by emitting waves of light from a handheld applicator applied onto the skin’s surface. The light will travel through the skin and target the imperfection (brown spots, freckles, pigmentation, seborrheic keratosis, flushed appearance, redness, red spots).
Depending on the wavelength of the light emitted, different imperfections can be targeted, as different coloured cells in the body will absorb different wavelengths. For example, in order to treat a spot of hyperpigmentation (brown spots, freckles, seborrheic keratosis), a wavelength targeted to melanin, which gives skin its colour, will be used, whereas in order to treat broken blood vessels (flushed, redness, red spots..,), a wavelength specific to hemoglobin, the protein that makes blood cells red, will be used. When a cell absorbs different wavelengths of light, it is also absorbing the energy the light is giving off, and by doing so, it heats up. That way, if for example the hemoglobin absorbs the light coming from the applicator, it will heat up until it is destroyed, thus causing the blood cell containing it to die.
When the targeted cells are destroyed, they will be cleared away by the body. As the number of coloured cells giving the imperfection its pigment are destroyed, the colour of the imperfection itself will begin to fade.

What can I expect during the procedure?

Before your procedure begins, the doctor will give you protective glasses so that your eyes are not damaged by the strong pulse of light. Over the area that will be treated, the doctor will apply a gel to protect the skin. Then, the handheld device will be place directly over the targeted area. The doctor will “zap” the area multiple times throughout the session. This is not painful, although you may feel a small stinging in the area. The entire session may last up to an hour. After it is over, the doctor will apply some moisturiser with SPF to the treated area. There will be no downtime afterwards, and you will be able to return immediately to your daily activities. You will however need to avoid exposing the treated area to direct sunlight, and apply sunscreen over it. Tanning should be avoided for a few weeks following the session.
Immediately after the treatment, you may notice the imperfection (brown spots, freckles, red spots, pigmentation…) has a much more pronounced colour, but it will gradually fade. There may also be some bruising or crusting, but this will fade on its own over time. Results will not be immediate and will appear gradually over time. You will require 3 to 5 sessions every 3 to 6 weeks for full results to appear.

Does IPL/BBL cause any side effects?

Side effects and complications from BBL treatment are rare. With BBL, there is some risk of burning, blistering, and pigmentation of the area of skin being treated. Scarring and bleeding may also occur. More common aftereffects of treatment are redness, and swelling, and these subside over time on their own. Your doctor will communicate to you any side effects and complications prior to beginning treatment. It will be important for you to disclose any medical history and medications you are taking in order to ensure you are not at risk for any severe complications.

How long will the results last?

Results should last for a long time, although they are not permanent. However, if you do not protect your skin from further damage from the sun or tanning, then it is possible for the imperfections (brown spots, freckles, pigmentation, red spots, redness to reoccur much more quickly. The actual amount of time the results will last varies from person to person, as well as your habits related to sun exposure. You will be able to discuss your own specific expectations with your doctor during your consultation prior to starting any treatment.

Is IPL/BBL for everyone?

BBL is not for individuals who have recently tanned skin. You cannot have been directly exposed to the sun for 48 hours prior to your session. BBL is also not recommended for darker skin tones
If you have the following conditions, you may not be eligible for IPL:
Diabetes
Vitiligo
Keloids
Lupus
Hemophilia
Porphyria
Prior to beginning any treatment, your doctor will take a detailed medical history in order to ensure that you do not have any conditions that would make you unable to receive treatment.