BBL FAQ

Facial IPL
BBL Face, healing and nearly healed

Here we ask our Manse therapist the most frequently asked questions about BBL

What is BBL and how does it compare to IPL?

BBL is essentially a highly advanced version of IPL. It is more accurate and specific with more customisation possible. Fewer treatments may be needed to achieve best results.

IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light and BBL stands for Broad Band Light. Both work by directing light energy into the skin which is then converted to heat as it reaches its target. The target, or chromophore can be the pigment in the skin, pigment in hair, redness of blood vessels and even the bacteria causing acne.
Once the heat energy hits the target it is absorbed and then damages the target tissue, causing destruction and eventual elimination of the target from the skin. The healing response begins, producing healthy collagen and elastin, and the skin is then restored to its healthy and natural condition.

What happens in a BBL treatment and does it hurt?


The eyes are protected with eye protection and a cold gel is applied to the skin. There is a noticeable flash sensation similar to the flash of a camera. Some discomfort might be felt, often described as a warm elastic band flicked onto the skin. However, any discomfort subsides quickly and we do not use any topical anaesthetic
cream. A BBL treatment typically takes around 20-30 minutes depending on the area being treated.

How I do prepare for a BBL treatment?

Prior to having a BBL treatment you will need to avoid fake tan and sun exposure to the area for 4 weeks.
We may perform test patches before doing a full treatment to ensure we have the lower risk and most effective settings.
Depending on the skin type we may be able to perform test patches on the day of consultation. If you are darker skin type we prepare the skin with topical lightening agent for 4 weeks before any test patches can be done.

What happens after a BBL treatment?

If brown spots are the target, the particles of the pigment will darken and will peel or slough off within 7-28 days depending on which area of the body was treated. If redness is the target, blood vessels in the superficial layers of the skin absorb the laser energy which causes them to shut down and over the course of several weeks.
Immediately following treatment, you can expect to see redness, and it will feel like sunburn in the treated area. Depending on the aggressiveness of your treatment, you may have swelling for a day or two.

What areas of the body can be treated?

We are able to treat most parts of the body skin with BBL.

How many treatments do I need?

The number of treatments needed will vary from patient to patient and your skin therapist will personalize a treatment plan based on your needs and desired outcome.
Once you have reached your desired result we recommend having a treatment 1-2 times per year to maintain.

How much is a treatment?

Please see our pricing page for BBL under the heading “IPL for redness, acne, pigment (also see freckle removal below) Your therapist will be able to give a per treatment quote depending on which areas you are interested in treating.

THE MANSE