Phototherapy Richmond VA - Broadband Light Therapy Richmond

Broad Band Light (BBL)

Advancements in aesthetic technology have made laser treatments a popular option for patients seeking to improve their skin tone and pigment concerns, as well as remove imperfections such as acne or unwanted hair. At Dr. Alan Burke: Facial Plastics & Reconstructive Surgery in Henrico, VA, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve healthy, beautiful and natural-looking skin.

Broadband Light Therapy (BBL)

We use BBL (Broad Band Light) devices, otherwise known as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), by Sciton to improve the appearance of sun spots, age spots, acne, redness and rosacea, veins, and even subtly tighten the skin.

Types Of BBL Therapy

BBL Hero (Color corrective Treatment): The Color Corrector! This treats common skin concerns on the face and body, such as: sun damage, skin pigmentation, broken skin vessels, redness and rosacea and overall skin tone. We recommended BBL Hero in a package of 3-5 treatments spaced 3-6 weeks apart and followed by Forever Young maintenance treatments.

Forever Young (Maintenance Treatment): This revolutionary treatment sends light energy deep into the skin to boost collagen growth, rejuvenate skin cells and keep pigment concerns at bay. This results in visibly younger, plumper and smoother looking skin, year after year! This is not a corrective result for fine lines and wrinkles, but a prejuvenation treatment for anti-aging and healthier looking skin 5-10 years down the road. This treatment is recommended 2-4 times per year, before and after summer or quarterly.

Forever Clear (Acne): This cutting-edge acne treatment uses the power of light energy to comfortably and effectively treat acne, leaving you with clear, healthy and radiant skin without the side effects of pharmaceuticals. This treatment consists of layering various filters. The first pass uses blue light to treat active breakouts by eliminating acne causing bacteria. The second pass uses yellow light to reduce inflammation and acne-associated redness while preventing scarring and new breakouts. The third pass uses infra-red light to maximize and enhance results. We recommend a series of 3-6 corrective treatments spaced 3-4 weeks apart, followed by 2-4 maintenance treatments a year.

Forever Bare (Hair Removal): This treatment easily and comfortable removes unwanted hair. In addition to the face, Forever Bare can be used on different parts of the body, including the underarms, arms and legs. Short, rapid pulses of light cause the hair follicle to stop producing hair without harming the surrounding tissue. We offer Forever Bare as a series of 6 treatments spaced 6-9 weeks apart.

SkinTyte: SkinTyte is a subtle tightening and firming light-based treatment to create a smoother and more youthful appearance. This is not a dramatic or corrective treatment for moderate to severe skin laxity. However, it can delay the need for surgical procedures by restoring a youthful contour to the face and body. SkinTyte works by safely and gently heating the surface of the skin to a desired temperature range and time frame to promote collagen production and improved healing. We recommend SkinTyte treatment in a package of 3-6 spaced 4-8 weeks apart.

BBL therapy is used to address a range of skin concerns. Dr. Burke will help you decide on the best treatment for you and your skin. Options include:

How It Works?

BBL (Broad Band Light) treats dozens of skin conditions with only one handpiece by using a variety of easy-to-switch wavelength filters. Each filter has a specific target, such as: brown pigment, redness, facial vessels, angiomas, bruising, hair follicles and acne. Each filter is chosen and layered by your advanced provider with the patient’s main skin concerns and goals in mind. For best results, our team starts with a base or blanket pass and then spot treats any additional concerns or lesions.

What To Expect During The Treatment?

Before most BBL treatments, we will apply numbing cream to the treatment area for 30 to 60 minutes. Your eyes will be protected with a safety shield or glasses. The procedure itself is quick and usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the treatment area. Throughout the treatment, the BBL device moves effortlessly and painlessly over the skin. Patients can expect minimal to no discomfort, as the handpiece’s sapphire crystal has powerful cooling technology to maintain comfort.

After Your Phototherapy Treatment

Phototherapy procedures require virtually no downtime. In most cases, the patient is immediately able to apply makeup and return to their usual daily activities. Initially, the patient may experience some mild redness, swelling, sensitivity and dryness to the skin post treatment. Oftentimes, patients feel they have a mild sunburn.

Pigment takes 2 weeks to improve and is a progressive, gradual process. During these 2 weeks, brown spots will appear darker and gradually fade or flake away. More superficial pigment may flake away from the skin, like coffee grounds. It is very important to not pick or scrub the skin or lesions during this time, as this could result in scarring.

It is important to avoid harsh active skin care ingredients for at least 1-2 weeks post-treatment, such as retinol products and chemical exfoliants. Your skin will be extra sensitive during this time, and these products could result in irritation.

Sunscreen is a must! Making a long-term commitment to safe sun protection is essential before undergoing phototherapy treatments. Proper SPF use and sun protection should be used daily and consistently. This is especially important in the month following your treatment, as you are more photosensitive and, therefore, more vulnerable to sunburns. Sun exposure can also affect results and further pigmentation.