BBL® (BroadBand Light) is an advanced light-based skin rejuvenation treatment that improves sun damage, pigmentation, redness, rosacea, broken capillaries, acne, and the visible signs of aging. At Ottawa Derm & Surgery Centre, we offer Sciton® BBL technology, including the latest BBL HEROic platform at select locations, delivering faster, more precise treatments with exceptional patient comfort. Kingston also offers IPL treatments for select indications, allowing us to recommend the most appropriate light technology for your skin concerns.
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Treat Pigmentation & Sun Damage
Reduce Redness & Vascular Concerns
Improve Overall Skin Quality
Ottawa Derm & Surgery Centre continues to invest in the latest laser technology to provide exceptional patient care. All ODC locations feature Sciton® BBL HEROic, the newest generation of BroadBand Light technology.
BBL HEROic builds on the proven benefits of traditional BBL while offering faster treatments, enhanced patient comfort, and improved treatment efficiency. Its advanced cooling system and larger treatment spot allow providers to treat larger areas more quickly without compromising precision or results.
Our providers customize every treatment using advanced settings and filters based on your skin type, concerns, and treatment goals to help deliver optimal outcomes.
While BBL is our primary BroadBand Light technology, our Kingston clinic offers both BBL and IPL treatments for appropriate indications. During your consultation, we’ll recommend the light-based treatment that’s best suited to your skin.
What is BBL®?
BBL (BroadBand light®) is an innovative treatment used to target pigmented lesions (e.g. age spots, freckles), uneven skin pigmentation, tone or texture, vascular lesions (broken capillaries, spider veins), acne, rosacea, and redness. BBL® is also proven to prevent the signs of aging and can be used to improve the overall quality of your skin. It can be used on all parts of the body including the face, neck, and hands.
BBL® uses a broad spectrum of wavelengths to target your skin’s underlying layers. Your skin absorbs the light energy, which promotes collagen production and breaks down the pigmented (darker) skin cells which your immune system will naturally expel.
Who is an ideal candidate?
BBL® works best on lighter skin tones. Darker skin tones should avoid BBL®, as the darker pigment absorbs too much light that can cause dark spots (hyperpigmentation) to appear. Most patients avoid BBL® treatments during summer months because of tanned skin. Typically, treatments are undertaken three times a year avoiding the summer months.
How do I prepare?
Avoid sun exposure within four weeks of receiving a BBL® treatment. Avoid using self tanners within two weeks of treatment.
Avoid using skincare products with active ingredients such as retinols, glycolic acid, AHA, topical vitamin C and A, at least 1 week prior to your treatment.
Inform your provider if you experience recurring cold sores or are using prescription skin treatments that increase your skin’s photosensitivity.
Is there any downtime?
There is minimal downtime following a BBL® treatment; however, it is recommended to avoid anything that causes sweating or flushing (e.g. exercise, hot temperatures, and saunas) for a minimum of 48 hours. If your skin feels sensitive post-treatment, avoid using make-up, scented products, deodorants, and active skin care ingredients on the treated area until the side-effects subside.
How does it feel?
During the procedure, your provider will apply a cooling gel to the treatment area. You’ll wear safety shields, goggles, or glasses to protect your eyes. You may experience sensations, pulses, and mild discomfort throughout the treatment. Your skin may feel slightly warm and may appear slightly red and/or swollen following the treatment.
How long does a treatment take?
BBL® treatments last around 30 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area(s). You will likely require a few treatments scheduled throughout the year. This will be determined with your provider during your consultation.
When will I notice results?
You can expect to see visible changes to your skin within a few days or weeks following your first BBL® treatment. Within 2 weeks of your first treatment, your skin may feel smoother and appear more even and bright. You may see fewer discolourations, fine lines, and pores. Blemishes and blood vessels will usually clear up within a few weeks.
As you continue treatments, you will notice more significant changes. Our providers often recommend three to six BBL® treatments for optimal results.
BBL® is one of the longest-studied in the industry. In studies performed over 10 years by Stanford University, patients who received BBL 3-4 times per year looked around 10 years younger. Ensure to apply a broad spectrum sunscreen, ideally containing zinc oxide, to promote the longevity of your BBL® results.
Discover What BBL Can Do for Your Skin
Whether you’re looking to reduce pigmentation, improve redness, treat sun damage, or maintain healthier, younger-looking skin, our experienced providers will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your goals.
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Post 2 Treatments
Post 2 Treatments
Post 2 Treatments
