Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) or Broadband Light (BBL) Therapy

Intense pulsed light (IPL), also known as Broadband Light (BBL) therapy, is a non-invasive and non-ablative treatment method which incorporates the usage of high-intensity pulses of visible light to improve the appearance of various skin problems, such as vascular lesions (port wine veins, rosacea, and broken facial veins), age marks, freckles, facial lines, and wrinkles. IPL therapy also shows effective results in reducing mild to moderate acne and stretch marks.

In IPL systems, the light energy is converted into heat energy which causes damage to the target areas. IPL systems are different from lasers because they deliver multiple wavelengths in each pulse instead of one. Many IPL systems use filters in order to refine the outputted energy for the treatment of affected areas. As a result, those filters enhance penetration without applying excessive energy levels and allow targeting of specific chromophores.

IPL therapy is known as a non-ablative resurfacing technique, meaning that it only targets the lower layers of the skin (dermis). It is considered more advantageous than ablative therapy, which targets both lower and upper skin layers, due to its short downtime period. A patient's recovery period is quite short and daily activities may be resumed immediately following treatment.

IPL targets different vascular lesions such as port wine veins, rosacea, and broken facial veins. The light pulses target the red pigment (haemoglobin) in the blood, which heats and destroys the pigment without affecting the surrounding skin or other tissues.

IPL also targets pigmented lesions, such as freckles, age spots, flat pigmented birthmarks, and other skin discolourations like melasma. Light pulses are targeted at the melanin found in the skin's surface, which heats and destroys melanin to remove discolouration.

Patients who are receiving IPL treatments are highly recommended to avoid sun exposure a few weeks before and after treatment. Before the start of the procedure, a cold gel is applied to the areas designated for treatment. The smooth, glass surface of the IPL handpiece is applied to the skin, delivering pulses of light into the targeted area.

Treatment sessions usually last approximately 20 minutes. A course of 4 to 6 treatment sessions every 3 to 6 weeks is required in order to achieve desired results. Throughout the entire procedure, protective eyewear provided by the dermatology office must be worn. The overall procedure is considered to be relatively painless in comparison with other techniques used for facial rejuvenation.

Side effects are usually minor. The skin may turn pink and feel slightly sore immediately following the procedure. A sensation similar to a mild sunburn, including peeling and redness, may persist for a few days after treatment. Facial hair loss may also occur.