BroadBand Light Therapy
BroadBand light therapy (sometimes called BBL or flashlamp therapy) is a non-invasive, in-office procedure that utilizes high-intensity pulses of light that penetrate the skin for a very short period of time. There is no down time after the procedure is complete and patients can return home or to work immediately.
BroadBand Light Therapy Procedure
BroadBand light therapy is unique in that the high intensity pulses of visible light targets the lower layers of the skin (or dermis) without affecting the top layers. During the procedure, pulses of broad band light are directed at the area to be treated. For most conditions, several broad band light therapy treatments are required to gain the desired effect. Treatments are usually performed every four weeks. As the treatments progress, the patient will notice a gradual change: improved texture of skin, decreased areas, lessening of pigmented areas of redness, and a more youthful skin tone.
Light Therapy Treatment
BroadBand light therapy treats many skin conditions, including:
- Hyperpigmentation (darkened areas of the skin)
- Age spots, liver spots, sun damage
- Flat birthmarks
- Minor sun damaged areas of the skin
- Facial flushing
- Areas of redness in the skin of the face
- Rosacea (facial erythema or redness)
- Spider veins
- Varicose veins
- Broken capillaries
- Hair reduction
- Acne
SkinTyte
SkinTyte is an additional type of light therapy that utilizes pulsed light technology to deeply heat your skin while cooling and protecting the entire treated surface.
The SkinTyte light energy is delivered in a sequence of rapid, gentle pulses. There is no need for a topical anesthetic, however, Dr. Vargas may choose to use one on more sensitive areas. A series of pulses will be repeated over the treatment area to ensure best results. While the face and neck can typically be treated within 30 minutes, the actual time will depend on the area treated. SkinTyte can be provided quickly and comfortably with no downtime. The end result is a more youthful appearance.
What to Know About Light Therapy
If you have skin or complexion issues that make you a good candidate for broad band light therapy or laser skin resurfacing and require immediately visible results, with no general anesthesia and minimal downtime, Vargas Face and Skin can help. Your in-depth consultation with Dr. Vargas will involve an exam of the areas that would benefit from the procedure. Measurements, photos and notes may be taken at this time.
BroadBand Light Therapy Q&A
BBL is a light therapy that treats age spots, freckles, redness, small vessels, and acne.
No, most patients are able to apply makeup post treatment and return to their normal routine.
There are other treatments, such as micro-needling, peels, and hydrafacials. It is best to consult for a recommendation that best suits your needs.
Any area of the body can be treated. The most commonly treated areas include the face, neck, chest, and hands.
It varies from patient to patient. Most individuals need anywhere from three to six treatments. After a series is completed it is important to continue regular treatments one to two times per year to maintain results and reverse aging.
You may experience slight discomfort in more sensitive areas. This treatment is well-tolerated by our patients.
The settings are customized to treat the specific concerns of your skin. Gel is applied and then a chilled applicator is placed on the skin to deliver the light therapy. Oftentimes, patients feel a warm sensation during the delivery of light.
Some redness may occur and usually resolves within a couple of hours. Patients may also feel a sunburn-like sensation. Current pigment of the skin may darken post treatment and will lighten within seven to 10 days.
Any procedure that addresses cosmetic needs is not usually covered by insurance. Special cases such as trauma may be reimbursable in part or whole. It is the patient’s responsibility for pre-approval of coverage and to process the claim for insurance.
