BroadBand Light (BBL) or Intense Pulsed Light are one of my FAVORITE treatments for treating redness and (non‑melasma based) hyperpigmentation. BBL delivers light energy to specifically target and remove pigment, instead of water, lifting out spots to create a more even complexion. 7‑10 days after treatment, you will see a reduction in discoloration and the skin will take on a luminous appearance. BBL also improves the quality of your skin to make it softer, clearer and smoother. It also works on most skin types, and tones (except dark), making it super versatile at an accessible price.
Skin Saint Favorites:
- BBL+ (face/neck)/ BBL HERO (body) ‑ Treats the skin with 4x the speed, 3x the power, and 2x the cooling capacity for maximum comfort, making it the fastest, most effective BBL treatment available on the market. Treats reds and browns, smooths the skin, helps redness from rosacea and leaves you with a flawless complexion.
- Limelight IPL ‑ One of the most effective ways to treat the brown and/or red pigmented areas on your skin. I recommend this treatment for acne and PIE.
Pro Tip: Get BBL before your laser treatment to take care of pigmentation! I love to pair it with Halo.
BBL/IPL: How They Work
BBL/IPL
BBL (BroadBand Light) and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments use light pulses to target skin imperfections. The light energy penetrates the skin and heats the upper layers.
This heat stimulates collagen production, which helps reduce redness, hyperpigmentation, and visible blood vessels. The process also smooths the skin, addressing various concerns such as acne and age spots.
BBL/IPL is versatile, making it suitable for different skin types and conditions.
Exceed is the FIRST dual‑indicated, FDA‑cleared microneedling system for the treatment of both facial wrinkles and facial acne scar reduction. Because of its credentials, it’s making other tools such as dermal rollers and other microneedling pens irrelevant, and is the only pen‑based micro‑needling treatment I endorse.
The goal of Exceed is to minimize epidermal trauma. It uses 6 of the sharpest medical grade stainless steel needles to reduce surface tension and uses a flexible needle 🪡 plate that allows the needles to release from the skin easier, resulting in less trauma. It’s also HIGHLY customizable with micro‑depth adjustments, ultra‑low vibration and eleven speed settings.
If you suffer from wrinkles or acne, Exceed will show you amazing results with minimal downtime. You may experience pink to red skin for 24‑48 hours after a treatment, but this can easily be soothed with moisturizer. This is currently my FAVORITE microneedling pen on the market, so you’ll definitely want to give it a try!
HydraFacialMD is an amazing quick fix for multiple skin issues! This 4‑in‑1 resurfacing, cleansing, hydrating, and rejuvenating treatment instantly transforms the skin in less than an hour. It cleans pores, removes dead skin cells AND improves fine lines, large pores and congestion. This treatment is great for all skin types, has no pain and no downtime, making it the perfect budget facial!
- Treats: Large pores, fine lines, congested and oily skin
- Results: Visible skin refinement and radiant skin tone
- Downtime: No pain or downtime!
- Safe for all skin types and conditions ‑ even sensitive skin!
HydraFacial: How It Works
HydraFacial
HydraFacial is a multi-step treatment that cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates the skin. A specialized device is used to deliver a mix of serums while simultaneously removing impurities.
This process helps improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of large pores, and deliver immediate hydration. The treatment is gentle, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
HydraFacial provides quick, visible results, leaving the skin refreshed and radiant.
Microneedling: How It Works
Microneedling
Microneedling uses fine needles to create tiny, controlled injuries on the skin’s surface. These micro-injuries trigger the body’s natural healing process.
This healing response increases collagen and elastin production, which helps reduce acne scars, wrinkles, and enlarged pores. The treatment also enhances the absorption of skincare products, making them more effective.
Microneedling is a powerful option for those looking to improve skin texture and firmness.
Benefits vs. Considerations: What to Expect
Chemical Peels
Benefits: Chemical peels can significantly improve skin tone, texture, and clarity. They are effective for reducing fine lines, scars, and pigmentation issues.
Considerations: Some peels might cause temporary redness, peeling, or sensitivity. It’s important to avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen post-treatment to protect the skin.
BBL/IPL
Benefits: BBL/IPL treatments are excellent for addressing redness, age spots, and other pigmentation concerns. They also promote collagen production for smoother skin.
Considerations: There may be mild discomfort during the procedure, and some redness or swelling can occur afterward. Darker skin types may require special consideration, as these treatments are typically more effective on lighter skin tones.
Microneedling
Benefits: Microneedling is highly effective for reducing acne scars, wrinkles, and improving overall skin texture. It enhances the skin’s absorption of products applied afterward.
Considerations: Temporary redness and slight swelling are common post-treatment. It’s important to follow aftercare instructions to avoid infection and maximize results.
HydraFacial
Benefits: HydraFacial provides immediate results with no downtime. It’s gentle yet effective, suitable for all skin types, and addresses multiple skin concerns in one session.
Considerations: While rare, some individuals may experience mild irritation or sensitivity. Regular treatments are recommended to maintain results.
Recommended Skincare Products: Enhance Your Results
Post-Chemical Peel
After a chemical peel, your skin will be more sensitive. It’s crucial to use a gentle moisturizer and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Look for products with soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe vera to keep your skin hydrated and calm.
Product Suggestions:
- Moisturizer: A lightweight, fragrance-free moisturizer with hyaluronic acid.
- Sunscreen: A mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for broad-spectrum protection.
Post-BBL/IPL
Following BBL/IPL treatments, your skin needs extra care to heal and stay protected from the sun. Use a calming serum with antioxidants and a high-SPF sunscreen to prevent pigmentation from returning.
Product Suggestions:
- Serum: A vitamin C serum to protect against environmental damage and brighten the skin.
- Sunscreen: A tinted sunscreen that offers both protection and a bit of coverage to even out skin tone.
Post-Microneedling
Microneedling opens up the skin, making it more receptive to skincare products. Use a hydrating serum with peptides and a rich moisturizer to lock in moisture. Avoid products with active ingredients like retinol or acids for a few days.
Product Suggestions:
- Serum: A peptide serum to boost collagen and aid in skin recovery.
- Moisturizer: A thick, ceramide-rich moisturizer to strengthen the skin barrier.
Post-HydraFacial
HydraFacial provides deep hydration, so maintaining this with a hyaluronic acid serum is key. Follow with a lightweight moisturizer and daily sunscreen to protect your refreshed skin.
Product Suggestions:
- Serum: A hyaluronic acid serum to maintain hydration levels.
- Moisturizer: A gel-based moisturizer that keeps the skin hydrated without feeling heavy.
Comparing Treatments: Which One Is Right for You?
Chemical Peels
Best For: Those looking to improve skin texture, tone, and address pigmentation issues. Consider If: You have concerns like acne scars, sun damage, or fine lines. This is also a good option if you prefer a treatment that shows gradual improvement over multiple sessions.
BBL/IPL
Best For: Addressing redness, age spots, and overall skin rejuvenation. Consider If: You want to target pigmentation, vascular lesions, or simply want an even skin tone. This is particularly effective for lighter skin tones and those dealing with rosacea or sun damage.
Microneedling
Best For: Improving skin texture, reducing scars, and boosting collagen. Consider If: You have acne scars, wrinkles, or enlarged pores. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a treatment that stimulates the skin’s natural healing process for long-term benefits.
HydraFacial
Best For: A quick, all-in-one solution for deep cleansing, hydration, and glowing skin. Consider If: You want immediate results with no downtime. This is great for all skin types and is especially suitable if you’re prepping for a special event or need a maintenance treatment.
User Testimonials and Case Studies: Real Results
Chemical Peels
Patient Experience: “After just one session, my skin felt smoother, and the dark spots I had been struggling with started to fade. The peeling was minimal, and within a week, I noticed a significant improvement in my skin’s texture. I’m planning to do a series for even better results.” — Sarah, 34
BBL/IPL
Patient Experience: “I had BBL to treat some stubborn sunspots and redness. The procedure was quick, and while my skin was a bit red afterward, it calmed down within a few hours. By the end of the week, my complexion was much more even, and the spots had significantly lightened.” — Mark, 42
Microneedling
Patient Experience: “Microneedling was a game-changer for my acne scars. The process was a bit uncomfortable, but the results were worth it. My scars are less noticeable, and my skin feels firmer. I noticed the biggest difference after the second treatment.” — Emily, 29
HydraFacial
Patient Experience: “The HydraFacial was exactly what my skin needed. It was so refreshing, and I walked out with glowing skin. My pores looked smaller, and the hydration lasted for days. I love that there’s no downtime, so it fits perfectly into my busy schedule.” — Jessica, 37
Post-Treatment Care: Maintaining Your Results
After Chemical Peels
- Hydrate: Use a gentle, hydrating moisturizer to soothe your skin.
- Protect: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day to protect your newly exposed skin.
- Avoid Sun Exposure: Stay out of direct sunlight for at least a week to prevent any irritation or hyperpigmentation.
After BBL/IPL
- Cool Down: Use a cold compress to reduce any mild swelling or redness.
- Gentle Cleansing: Cleanse your skin with a mild, non-irritating cleanser to avoid further sensitivity.
- Sunscreen: Daily application of sunscreen is essential to prevent the return of pigmentation issues.
After Microneedling
- Hydrate: Apply a serum rich in hyaluronic acid to boost hydration.
- Avoid Actives: Skip products with active ingredients like retinol or acids for a few days to avoid irritation.
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen to shield your skin from UV rays, as your skin will be more sensitive.
After HydraFacial
- Moisturize: Keep your skin hydrated with a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer.
- Sunscreen: Even though the treatment is gentle, it’s important to use sunscreen to protect your refreshed skin.
- Avoid Harsh Products: For a day or two, avoid using any exfoliating or harsh skincare products.
Frequently Asked Questions: Addressing Common Concerns
Q1.Is Microneedling Painful?
Microneedling can cause some discomfort, but most patients describe it as a tolerable sensation. Numbing cream is typically applied before the procedure to minimize pain.
Q2.How Long Do the Results of a HydraFacial Last?
The glowing, refreshed look from a HydraFacial can last up to a week, with the hydration benefits continuing for several days. Regular treatments are recommended to maintain results.
Q3.Can BBL/IPL Treatments Be Done on Darker Skin Tones?
BBL/IPL is generally more effective on lighter skin tones. For darker skin, special care is needed to avoid hyperpigmentation. It’s best to consult with a dermatologist to assess suitability.
Q4.How Soon Will I See Results from a Chemical Peel?
You may notice some immediate improvement, but the full results typically appear after a week, once the skin has fully healed. Multiple sessions may be required for more significant changes.
Q5.What Should I Avoid After These Treatments?
After any of these treatments, avoid direct sun exposure, heavy exercise, and harsh skincare products for a few days. Always follow specific aftercare instructions provided by your skincare professional.
