As of 2021, we have recently discontinued offering photo facials to patients. Please review our other services to see how Dr. Torres can help.
BroadBand light (BBL) is also commonly referred to as Intense Pulse Light (IPL) is used to treat sun-damaged skin, aging skin, as well as freckles or blemishes. The procedure allows you to experience quick recovery with smoother, healthier, more vibrant skin, and an immediate change in skin texture and tightness.
Dr. Torres uses only the best state-of-the-art machine to perform photofacials. With the Sciton Joule, we can adjust to specific wavelengths to target brown spots, redness such as red vessels (telangiectasia), or both. Dr. Torres will improve your overall skin texture and tone and reduces your pore size significantly. The BBL/IPL treatment is also very effective for acne treatments as well as rosacea.
BBL/IPL is an innovative light technology that uses advanced dual-lamp technology and employs an integrated cooling system that keeps the treatment area comfortable. The light energy delivered by the BBL laser machine is absorbed by the melanin, which is responsible for pigmented lesions (dark spots) in the upper layers of your skin. Over the next few days the pigmented lesions will darken and then fall off.
How much downtime do I need?
None! Our broadband light treatment in San Diego is performed at our La Jolla office with no downtime! You will need to use sunscreen, and you can apply make up and go on with your usual everyday activities, although your face may feel slightly warm and sunburnt.
How many IPL treatments will I need?
Although you will see improvement in your skin after just one treatment, optimal results are best seen after at least a few treatments spaced about one month apart. We will set up a personalized plan for your individual needs and work toward accomplishing your desired outcomes.
How do I prepare for IPL?
You will need to avoid using any cosmetic products (i.e. makeup, moisturizers, lotions, etc.) the day of the procedure.
It is very important that you avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, and tanning lotions/sprays for 2 weeks prior to your procedure. Any exposure to these can increase the risk of burning because your skin may absorb more light.
You should also discontinue the use of retinol products and skin brighteners (i.e. hydroquinone and non-hydroquinone products) at least 24 hours prior to your treatment.
**If you use retinol, please do not use it 3 days prior to your treatment.
Make sure you discontinue any photosensitive antibiotics/medications 2 weeks prior to procedure (these include but are not limited to tetracycline, doxycycline, Cipro).
BroadBand Light in San Diego does not have downtime. However, pigment will appear darker for approximately 5-7 days before it starts to flake away and improve. Be sure to schedule your treatment plan accordingly.
What can you treat with IPL?
Dr. Torres can effectively treat many skin conditions, including freckles, age spots (i.e., pigmented lesions), small blood vessels, broken capillaries (i.e., vascular lesions), uneven and/or lax skin texture, as well as rosacea.
What is a photofacial procedure like?
When you get to Skin ‘n Skinnier for your BBL/IPL appointment, our friendly receptionist will check you in and we will take you will take you to the laser room. We prep your face by cleansing it and applying a cooling gel and shielding your eyes. The treatment is very quick and only takes approximately 15 minutes. Typically, the BBL/IPL procedure causes only minimal to no discomfort, but we may use a Zimmer chiller during the treatment for added comfort and cooling of the skin.
What should I expect after my Skin and Skinnier San Diego IPL treatment?
Don’t be alarmed if your dark spots (pigmented lesions) initially appear darker. They will continue to get darker over 24-48 hours after the treatment.
Your skin may also appear red, slightly swollen, and may have a mild sunburn sensation. This is a normal reaction and can last from a few hours to a few days after treatment.
After your treatment, we apply sunscreen to protect your skin.
How do I take care of my skin following a photofacial?
Avoid all of the following until your skin no longer feels sensitive:
Scented lotions or soaps, exfoliant creams (Retin-A, glycolic/salicylic and alpha-hydroxy acids), acne creams/gels, loofa sponges and aggressive scrubbing. Also stay away from very hot or cold water – wash with lukewarm water instead. In addition, chlorine and other chemicals in swimming pools/spas, shaving, and activities that cause excessive sweating can cause more irritation. You can also use cooling compresses, ice packs, vitamin E, or aloe vera for cooling comfort if the treated area feels warm or slightly sunburnt within the first few hours after your treatment.
Discomfort after treatment is typically very minimal, but if you experience some, you may use oral pain relievers, such as Tylenol or Advil.
Freckles and sunspots may turn slightly darker initially but will flake off within 7-14 days and should be allowed to come off naturally. This is a desired normal reaction. DO NOT PICK, RUB, OR FORCE OFF ANY SKIN DURING THE HEALING PROCESS. THIS COULD RESULT IN SCARRING AND HYPER/HYPOPIGMENTATION!
Avoid any sun exposure to the treated area for a minimum of 7 days after the procedure. The treated area is more prone to sunburn and pigmentation changes.
Keep the area covered and use a sunblock with a protection factor of 30+ and at least 7% zinc oxide or titanium oxide. Reapply every 2 hours. Delayed blistering secondary to sun exposure has been noted up to 72 hours after your treatment. During a series of phototherapy treatments, avoid sun exposure as much as possible and use a sunblock on a daily basis.
How long will it take to recover from IPL?
This is a noninvasive procedure with virtually no downtime. In most cases, you are able to return to work, apply makeup, and resume most activities immediately. However, it is important to remember that not everyone heals at the same speed and it would not be unusual if the healing process takes longer.
You may resume your normal skin care regimen typically 24-48 hours after your procedure.
How soon can I expect results from a photofacial?
Most patients notice an improvement in pigmentation and redness within 7-14 days once the skin heals. However, for optimal results a minimum of 3 treatments spread approximately 4 weeks apart is recommended.
In the unusual case of crusting of the skin in the treated area, apply aquaphor twice a day to the affected areas to act as a barrier for your skin. Avoid picking at these affected areas, as this may result in infection or scarring. Also, if the skin is broken or starts blistering, apply aquaphor and contact the office immediately. Keep the affected area moist and avoid direct sunlight.
Individual responses can vary after a BBL treatment. Mild erythema (redness) and possibly mild edema (swelling) along with darkened pigment can be expected and are actually desired responses within a few minutes after the procedure. The length of healing time can also vary from patient to patient.
*Legal disclaimer: Individual results may vary. Our reviews speak for themselves, but Skin and Skinnier is not legally allowed to make any guarantees through this website.