BBL vs IPL Hair Removal
Both IPL and BBL treatments can help reverse the signs of aging and restore a lustrous glow to aging skin, but they also shine when it comes to long-term hair removal. Unwanted facial and body hair won’t stand a chance against these light-based services.
Anyone curious about IPL or BBL for hair removal should look into the differences between these methods to determine what’s right for their skin. Join us as we answer all of your questions about BBL vs IPL for hair removal in this guide.
What is BBL (BroadBand Light) therapy?
BroadBand Light (BBL) therapy is a noninvasive procedure that uses intense pulsed light to treat a range of skin conditions. BBL isn’t the same thing as a laser treatment because it uses a broad spectrum of light that your esthetician can filter and adjust to treat different conditions. Here’s a closer look at this modern treatment solution:
How does BBL work?
BBL works similarly to classic IPL, with a few important differences. BroadBand Light devices utilize a larger spectrum of light along with more controls for practitioners. Specialists can screen lightwaves through more filters to offer more targeted treatments for a wide range of skin conditions.
Of course, BBL is also highly effective for hair removal! In fact, it can outperform laser and IPL devices by delivering faster results with less discomfort.
What to expect during a BBL treatment session
BBL light therapy treatments aren’t very different from IPL sessions. That said, many people consider BBL more comfortable. Built-in cooling features ensure a pleasant experience without excessive heat.
Are there any side effects of BBL?
Generally, BBL and IPL have comparable side effects. However, the more modern treatment solution lessens the severity of reactions such as redness, inflammation, and flaking skin. This is why many people with sensitive skin opt for BBL over IPL.
What is IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy?
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy was the earliest photon-based device for cosmetic purposes. It was developed in the 1990s as a multi-tool to treat various aesthetic conditions. Here’s a closer look at this groundbreaking technology:
How does IPL work?
IPL utilizes a handheld device that delivers repetitive bursts of light in a range of wavelengths to target different skin conditions. These lightwaves create heat that targets melanin, the substance responsible for the color of our hair and skin.
In turn, excessive pigmentation and other targeted structural concerns break down and are ultimately eliminated through the lymphatic system. Cut-off filters ensure that UV light doesn’t damage your skin.
What does IPL treat?
You can use IPL to treat discoloration like acne scars and sunspots, as well as skin conditions such as rosacea, spider veins, and uneven skin texture. Plus, IPL devices can be effective for hair removal treatments. In fact, that’s one of their most popular uses today.
Are there any side effects of IPL treatments?
Immediately following your IPL session, you can expect to experience symptoms that feel like a sunburn. Redness, swelling, itching, and peeling are all common. Unfortunately, some people with darker skin tones can have a higher risk of complications. These may include burns, blisters, and exacerbated hyperpigmentation.
What are the differences between BBL and IPL therapy?
While both IPL and BBL can improve aesthetic skin concerns and provide long-term hair removal solutions, there are some significant differences to be aware of. Here’s how these two light therapy services differ:
BBL is an advanced type of IPL therapy
BBL devices take the early photo-rejuvenation technology of IPL and crank it up to deliver more targeted results. Since practitioners can filter light more precisely with BBL, they can zero in on your treatment area to give you the results you’re looking for.
BBL is more effective than traditional IPL
The advanced features of BBL devices enable them to work more quickly than IPL. While both devices can improve cosmetic concerns and remove hair effectively, BBL can achieve results in fewer sessions and with less discomfort. Of course, BBL also comes with the added benefit of working on a deeper level to deliver more transformative outcomes.
BBL can stop the clock on aging
While IPL targets more superficial layers of skin, BBL penetrates more deeply to improve your skin from within. In addition to boosting collagen production, BBL can actually change the gene expression of the cells in your chosen treatment area.
That’s right—this non-invasive procedure can alter damaged, aging DNA to restore youthfulness on a cellular level. So, you won’t just look younger—your skin cells will act younger, too!
Your smoothest skin yet with B.Clear Aesthetics
Our goal at B.Clear Aesthetics is to create a welcoming environment where all of our clients feel comfortable embarking on their wellness journeys. We’re committed to providing effective, personalized services to help our clients reach their goals!
If you’re ready to learn more about our light-based hair removal services, acne treatments, or skincare programs, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today or schedule an appointment online to get started.