Mitchell J. Mandel, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist, founder · All offices
Medically reviewed by Mitchell J. Mandel, M.D., F.A.A.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist. Last reviewed .
Sciton makes a laser and light platform with several treatments. We use it for BBL (BroadBand Light), a light treatment for redness and brown spots, and for the MicroLaser Peel, a laser peel for texture and fine lines.
ProFractional, a fractional laser on the same platform, has its own page.
BBL uses pulses of light that are absorbed by brown spots and small blood vessels. Most people feel a warm snap with each pulse. Brown spots darken and flake off over about a week. Redness may look slightly worse for a few days before it fades. Many people do a series of treatments.
The MicroLaser Peel removes a very thin, precise layer of the skin surface. Numbing cream is applied first. Depending on depth, expect a few days of redness and peeling, with full healing in about one to two weeks.
Avoid tanning and direct sun for a few weeks before treatment. Light treatments like BBL are not safe on tanned skin.
Use gentle skincare and wear sunscreen every day. Your provider will give you aftercare instructions for your treatment.
BBL, or BroadBand Light, is a light treatment that targets brown spots and redness to even out skin tone.
A laser peel that removes a thin, controlled layer of skin to improve texture and fine lines.
BBL is Sciton's version of intense pulsed light. Both treat brown spots and redness.
BBL feels like a warm snap. The MicroLaser Peel is done with numbing cream.
BBL has little downtime, though spots darken and flake off over about a week. A MicroLaser Peel has a few days of redness and peeling.
BBL works best on lighter skin that is not tanned. Your provider will check whether it is right for you or suggest another option.