PhotoFacial – Beautiful Skin with the Power of Light
Posted on January 13, 2020 by Dr. Blume in Blog
The term PhotoFacial is used to describe a skin treatment with light therapy that addresses the following skin conditions: age spots, sun damage, rosacea, broken capillaries and dull skin tone. It can also help with Ocular Rosacea & Dry Eye. Depending on the technology that is used, the term IPL – Intense Pulsed Light or BBL – Broad Band Light are also common terms to describe a PhotoFacial. Blume Skin & Body has two forms of technology to treat our patients.
IPL Photo rejuvenation technology
The IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) technology allows treatment of pigmentation and vascular imperfections, while improving overall skin appearance. Lumenis®IPL with Optimal Pulse Technology enables your clinician to customize the treatment according to your skin type and desired results, with maximum safety. Light pulses penetrate the tissue and create heat, targeting the skin imperfection in a controlled manner. The body’s natural process then removes the treated tissue while collagen and elastic fiber stimulation occurs, visible improvement in skin tone and overall appearance.
Broad Band Light rejuvenation technology
The Broad Band Light (BBL™) by Sciton® is a powerful IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) device. The light energy delivered by BBL will gently heat the upper layers of your skin. The heat absorbed by the targeted areas will stimulate your skin cells to regenerate. The corrective process will restore your skin to its natural beauty making it clearer, smoother, vibrant and younger looking. BBL allows your clinician to treat age spots, small facial veins, rosacea and many other skin conditions. BBL stimulates cells to regenerate, and typically with the first treatment you will start to see smoother, more even and vibrant skin. The photothermal energy will eliminate fine vessels that cause redness and reduce unwanted melanin that produces age and sun spots. Your skin will feel smoother, pores will be less noticeable and uneven pigmentation will fade.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments needed will vary from patient to patient. You and your certified laser technician will personalize a treatment plan based on your needs and desired outcomes. Blume Skin & Body offer savings packages when purchased in a series of three treatments.
What will happen during the procedure?
The procedure is typically gentle and safe. Blume Skin & Body uses a topical anesthetic for your comfort. Your eyes will be protected with safety shields and a cool ultrasound (coupling) gel will be applied to the treatment area. Depending on your specific concern, you can expect the session to last 15-30 minutes. You may briefly feel a warm “rubber band snap” sensation as the light is absorbed by the targeted areas.
What should I expect after the treatment?
You may experience some redness that should resolve within a few hours. For sun spots, you will see a darkening of the treated areas followed by fading and flaking off at a later stage. In most cases, makeup may be immediately applied, and daily activities can be resumed the very same day. You are advised to stay out of direct sun for a few days following the treatment and to apply sunscreen daily. This is a non-invasive and typically gentle procedure with virtually no downtime.
Blume Skin & Body offers both BBL and IPL, you and your certified laser technician can decide which technology is best for you. Prior to the treatment, it is best to be without a tan or self-tanner and have stopped the use of Retinols/Retin A for 5 days.
The most popular treatment areas are: face, neck, chest and hands. Many patients have treated: legs, arms, shoulders and backs.
The treatment is safe and effective when performed by a qualified certified laser technician. Please schedule a consultation to discuss any individual questions or concerns.
Blume Skin & Body (480) 699-7999