BBL and IPL often appear as two competing treatments. In reality, they are closer than their names suggest: BBL (BroadBand Light) is the branded variant of IPL from the manufacturer Sciton \u2013 both work with intense pulsed light. At alestetics in Zurich, we work with the Lumenis Stellar M22 IPL, one of the most advanced IPL systems. Here you can read how the technology works, what it can achieve, and what really matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
BBL and IPL both use pulsed, broadband light to improve pigment, redness, and skin appearance. BBL is not a separate treatment principle, but rather Sciton's protected IPL variant. Therefore, the brand name is less important for the outcome than the specific device, the correct settings, and trained application. We work with the Lumenis Stellar M22.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Stellar M22 is more than a standard IPL device. It combines several technologies that allow for precise and comfortable treatment control:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This allows us to address a range of concerns \u2013 from an uneven complexion and redness to fine skin texture. You can read more about the treatment we offer on the page Stellar M22\u2122 IPL & ResurFX\u2122<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) emits short pulses of light from a broad wavelength range (approximately 400 to 1200 nm). Using filters, the light can be controlled to target specific structures in the skin \u2013 so-called chromophores:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The light is converted into heat, which gently warms these target structures; the body then breaks them down. At the same time, the gentle heat stimulates fibroblasts to produce new collagen \u2013 which firms and smoothes the skin's appearance.Li et al., 2016<\/a>. The effectiveness of IPL for sun-induced pigmentation, redness, and skin texture is evidenced in a systematic review (Sales et al., 2022<\/a>You can read how collagen works here Build collagen<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n IPL is highly effective for sun-induced pigmentation, redness and an uneven complexion. For deep wrinkles, however, its effectiveness is limited \u2013 other methods are better suited to this. To be honest: IPL mainly improves the skin\u2019s colour and texture, rather than its deeper layers. And it is no substitute for sun protection \u2013 more on that in a moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After an IPL treatment, the skin is particularly sensitive to light because pigment cells and superficial structures have been stimulated. UV radiation can trigger new pigmentation or redness during this phase. Therefore, the rule is: consistent sun protection with a high sun protection factor (SPF 50) for at least two to four weeks \u2013 even on cloudy days. Good sun protection not only protects but also preserves the results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether IPL is suitable for your skin goals \u2013 and at what settings \u2013 depends on your skin type and complexion. Lighter to medium skin types are generally well suited to the treatment; for darker skin types, we make a case-by-case decision, as the risk of pigmentation changes may be higher. It\u2019s best if we discuss this together during the AURA 3D Skin Analysis<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHow IPL works on the skin<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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What IPL can do \u2013 and what it can't<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Why sun protection is so important after IPL treatment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Which treatment is right for you?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n