Gene expression is the process by which the information encoded in a gene is used to direct the assembly of a protein molecule. Gene expression is part of how your body creates new cells. Your DNA is a unique blueprint that only you have. Certain genes can express themselves (turn on or off) based on factors like aging and other environmental components. As we age, the genes within our skin cells are programmed to express themselves differently than when we were younger.

Forever Young BBL reaches deep into the cell and activates certain genes associated with youth, while turning off other genes tied to aging. As a result, you create more of the kinds of proteins and other building blocks you had when you were younger. New skin cells are actually programmed to be younger, giving you beautiful, youthful skin.

Yes! Ground-breaking research performed at Stanford University shows that BBL influences gene expression and changes skin at a molecular level. The study showed that literally hundreds of genes that are known to be associated with younger skin were activated while
others, associated with aging, were turned off. (1)

But that’s not all. A long-term clinical study showed that patients who received regular BBL treatments over the course of a decade were judged by doctors to appear 11 years younger than their actual age at the study’s end. In other words, they looked younger than when they started the study! (2)

1. Chang AL, Bitter PH, Qu K, Lin M, Rapicavoli NA, Chang HY. Rejuvenation of gene expression pattern of aged human skin by broadband light treatment:
a pilot study. J Invest Dermatol. 2013;133(2):394-402.
2. Bitter P, Pozner J. Retrospective evaluation of the long-term anti-aging effects of BroadBand Light Therapy. Cosmet Dermatol. February 2013:34-40.

The number of BBL photofacial treatments needed varies from patient to patient, and your clinician will personalize a treatment plan based on the level of improvement you desire. Your clinician may also combine your treatment with other popular aesthetic procedures to optimize your results.

Remember that regular treatments—at least once a year—have been proven to stop the aging process, allowing patients to look younger than they did when they started treatment 10 years prior.

Any area of your body can be treated. The most common areas are those most exposed to the damaging effects of sunlight. The most popular treatments are on the face, neck, back of the hands, chest and shoulders.

Your eyes will be protected with safety shields or glasses. Usually, there is no need for a topical anesthetic; however, your clinician may choose to use one when treating more sensitive areas. You may briefly feel a warm or quick snapping sensation as the light is absorbed by the targeted areas. Your procedure may take a few minutes to half an hour depending on the size of the area to be treated and the type of procedure performed.

BBL is a noninvasive and gentle procedure with virtually no downtime. In most cases, you are able to return to work, apply makeup, and resume most of your activities immediately.

You may experience some redness that should resolve within a few hours. For some pigmented lesions, you will see a darkening of the treated area followed by fading and flaking off at a later stage. Your treated skin will feel smoother, pores will be less noticeable, and sunspots or uneven pigmentation will fade. Results depend on your condition, the number of treatments, and the area treated. Your clinician will provide you with complete information about the post treatment care and results.

It is important to follow your clinician’s treatment plan. You may be given some skin care products and instructions on how to use them. You will be sensitive to ultraviolet light and you must avoid direct sun exposure until completely healed. Fully cover your skin or use a good sunscreen whenever you go outdoors.