Among the many treatments we offer at the Elizabeth Roche, MD MedSpa, perhaps one of the most innovative is photorejuvenation. Also known as Broad Band Light (BBL), Intense Pulse Light (IPL) and photo facials, this treatment uses a handheld light, almost like a super-powered flashlight, on targeted areas of the face to alleviate skin and hair issues. Here’s what photorejuvenation may be able to do for you.
Photorejuvenation Can Heal Sun Damage
Photorejuvenation uses intense visible light to treat pigmentation issues, age spots, and broken blood vessels without being invasive. In fact, it’s best used to treat damage caused by the sun, using light to fight light.
The wavelengths of light emitted from the tool can be tuned to target the hemoglobin in blood vessels or the melanin. The light breaks down vessel walls and excess melanin pigment, which in turn compels the body to reabsorb them, removing unsightly blemishes in a way that makeup cannot.
If this process sounds familiar, it’s because photorejuvenation works in a manner similar to micro needling, which uses tiny punctures in the skin to promote the body’s natural healing process in order to remove blemishes.
The two procedures also share another capability:
Photorejuvenation Prompts Collagen Production
As part of the natural healing response, the body releases collagen—the essential protein of the human body, which is crucial to maintaining firm, smooth, youthful looking skin. Collagen production slows down as we get older, but photorejuvenation can activate collagen production in the body by causing a superficial injury.
This is important because there is no cream or lotion that can promote collagen production—it must be produced by natural processes.
It’s a Simple, Safe Procedure
A photorejuvenation treatment only takes about 20 to 30 minutes, although best results are more likely to occur if you undergo 3 to 6 of them in a month. Afterwards, you skin might be a little red, or brown spots may appear before peeling off. While the treatment itself may sting mildly, the pain does not persist afterwards and many patients don’t report being too bothered by it. In fact, you can start applying make up to your face immediately after phororejuvenation. Treatments for many patients actually become easier as they undergo more of them as issues resolve.
At the Elizabeth Roche, M.D. MedSpa, we can perform photorejuvenation treatments. We’ll consult with you on your aesthetic goals and whether photorejuvenation is right for you. Call us today to make an appointment and start feeling confident in your skin again.