BroadBand Light (BBL) laser skin therapy is a non-surgical treatment that uses pulses of light energy to address various skin concerns, including pigmentation changes, redness, visible blood vessels, and textural irregularities. The light energy targets specific components in the skin to break down unwanted pigment or stimulate the body’s natural repair processes. This, in turn, encourages natural cellular renewal and collagen activity. BBL laser therapy is commonly used on the face, neck, chest, and hands to address different skin concerns.
How BBL Laser Skin Therapy Works
BBL therapy works by delivering short bursts of light to targeted areas of the skin. The light is absorbed by pigment or small blood vessels in the skin, depending on what is being treated. This process helps break down unwanted pigment or redness, which the body then clears away over time. Unlike some lasers that use just one type of light, BBL uses a broad range of wavelengths. This makes it suitable for different skin types and concerns. The settings can be adjusted to treat specific conditions, such as sun spots or visible veins, and to match the patient’s skin sensitivity.
During the procedure, a handheld device is used to deliver pulses of light across the skin’s surface in a controlled manner. The light energy reaches the upper layers of the skin, where it targets cells affected by pigmentation or vascular irregularities. This process encourages natural skin cell turnover, helping older or damaged skin cells gradually shed while new cells develop beneath the surface. In addition to affecting the outer layers, the light energy also penetrates deeper into the skin to stimulate fibroblasts—cells responsible for producing collagen. Collagen is a key structural protein that supports the skin’s strength and elasticity.
Common Skin Concerns Treated with BBL
BBL therapy is commonly used to treat a range of skin conditions, particularly those associated with sun exposure and ageing. These include pigmentation irregularities such as sunspots, age spots, and freckles, as well as vascular conditions like facial redness or visible capillaries. It may also be recommended for patients with medical conditions like rosacea or other chronic redness disorders, as the light energy helps diminish the appearance of visible blood vessels. BBL can be applied to the face, neck, chest, hands, and other areas.
BBL therapy is also used to help manage changes in the skin related to sun exposure and ageing. The treatment supports the body’s natural process of replacing older skin cells with new ones. While it does not physically exfoliate the skin, the light energy can influence surface texture by encouraging cell turnover and collagen activity. This treatment is often included as part of a broader skin care plan that includes daily sun protection and recommended topical products.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before the procedure begins, the skin is cleaned, and a clear gel is applied to help the device move effectively and guide the light evenly. Special eyewear is provided to protect the eyes from the bright flashes. The handheld BBL device is gently moved over the skin, releasing short bursts of light to the targeted areas. During each flash, patients may feel warmth or a light snapping feeling on the skin.
The session length depends on the size and number of areas being treated and usually ranges from 15 to 45 minutes. Some BBL systems include a built-in cooling function to support comfort during the procedure. In certain cases, a numbing cream may be applied, depending on the settings and the patient’s sensitivity. Any heat sensation may continue for a short time after the procedure and will be monitored as part of aftercare.
MORE: BBL before and after gallery
What to Expect After the Procedure
After the procedure, the skin might look red or feel a little swollen, similar to how it feels after being in the sun for too long. This reaction is expected and usually settles within a few hours or days. Dark spots may look darker at first and can flake off or disappear as the skin undergoes the healing process. It’s important to follow the aftercare instructions, such as using a gentle face wash, keeping the skin moisturised, and staying out of the sun.
Some patients may be advised to avoid makeup or strong skincare products for a short time, depending on how their skin reacts. Sun protection is important after the treatment, as the skin can be more sensitive. If more sessions are needed, they are usually spaced out over a few weeks. Any changes to the skin tend to appear slowly and may continue to develop after each session.
Risks and Complications
As with any light-based skin treatment, there are potential risks and complications that should be discussed during consultation. These may vary depending on the patient’s skin type, medical history, and the settings used during treatment.
Possible risks and complications of BBL laser therapy include:
- Redness and swelling
- Skin irritation or sensitivity, including itching, dryness, or a burning sensation
- Pigment changes, such as temporary darkening or lightening of the skin
- Crusting or flaking in the treated areas
- Blistering or scabbing
- Infection
- Scarring, especially in patients with a history of poor wound healing
- Exacerbation of underlying skin conditions, such as melasma or rosacea, depending on the intensity of treatment
Patients should carefully follow all instructions given before and after treatment to help support healing and reduce the risk of complications. Attending scheduled follow-up appointments is also important, particularly when multiple sessions are planned.
Reasons to Choose Infinity Skin Clinic for BBL Laser Therapy in Sydney & North Shore
Infinity Skin Clinic offers BBL laser therapy performed by trained medical professionals in a clinical setting. The team consists of cosmetic physicians, registered nurses, and medical aestheticians. Before any treatment, patients undergo a detailed skin assessment and consultation, where the team evaluates skin health, discusses concerns, and explains the process in detail. Patients receive individualised recommendations based on their skin type, condition, and treatment goals.
The clinic uses medical-grade technology and follows protocols that are adjusted to suit each patient’s needs. Treatments are performed with attention to technique and patient comfort. The team monitors how the skin responds during and after the procedure and provides clear aftercare guidance. Any questions or concerns are discussed at each step of the treatment process.
Infinity Skin Clinic has locations in Sydney and the North Shore, making it accessible for patients seeking regular or ongoing care. Each appointment is designed to support consistent treatment, clear communication, and follow-up as part of the overall care plan. The clinic follows set standards based on current medical guidelines and research. Treatments are planned using clinical assessment, patient input, and regular review of progress.