A study recently published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology shows that Sciton BroadBand Light (BBL) treatments can change the expression of genes associated with the aging process to more closely resemble young skin. To put this in terms we can all understand, think of a box of crayons being dumped onto the floor. When we are young, the bright colors like the reds, yellows, oranges are all “turned on” and the darker colors such as the browns, blacks, greys are “turned off”. As we age, this reverses and the brighter colors are “turned off” and the darker more dull colors are “turned on”. The study, “Rejuvenation of Gene Expression Pattern of Aged Human Skin by BroadBand Light Treatment” was performed using the Sciton BBL system and was led by dermatologist Dr. Chang of Stanford University School of Medicine. The study looked at the molecular changes, seeing which colors in the crayon box are “turned on or off”, by treatment with BBL. Previous studies have shown that animal models can exhibit gene expression changes to become more youthful, the brighter crayons “turn on”, but Dr. Chang’s study is the first to show a similar correlation in human skin treated with BBL. The study supports the hypothesis that regulators of aging can be altered in human skin using BBL technology to provide a functional change, rather than just a cosmetic mimic of youthful appearance. BBL treatments promote the appearance of youthful skin, “turning on” the bright colors. This study reveals that the appearance of younger skin may be due to the differences observed in gene expression patterns of aged skin becoming more like young skin, “turning on” the brighter colored crayons and the “turning off” of the darker ones.

An additional study, submitted for publication by Patrick H. Bitter, Jr. of Advanced Aesthetic Dermatology, a well-known dermatologist and co-author of the JID study, takes this groundbreaking research further and explores the practical application and patient results of BBL treatments. Dr. Bitter’s study focuses on the ability to improve the appearance of aging skin with long-term and regular interval treatments with BBL and the Forever Young BBL treatment was born.

The Forever Young BBL Treatment keeps the genes, the crayons, acting younger and can actually reverse the aging process by “turning on” the bright colors and “turning off” the dark, dull ones. This innovative procedure delivers light therapy that targets the signs of aging and sun damage and at the same time promotes a refreshed, rejuvenated and more youthful appearance. Age spots, freckles, redness, acne and small vascular lesions are reduced. The number of treatments depends on the amount of damage to your skin and your age. Patients in their 30’s would typically receive 2 Forever Young BBL treatments a year. Patients in their 60’s would typically come in for a treatment 4 times a year.

“Forever Young” Broad Band Light (BBL) allows our Certified Medical Laser Technicians to deliver pulsed light energy to unwanted areas of pigment on the face, neck, chest, arms and upper back. This safe and effective procedure is best for fair skin types. “Forever Young” Broad Band Light (BBL) is a maintenance treatment and should be performed every 3-6 months depending on your age for best results.

When you come in for your initial consultation, you will meet with one of our Certified Medical Laser Technicians. Maloney Plastic Surgery is one of the only practices in Tucson, AZ to offer VECTRA 3D (three-dimensional) technology to our patients. One of the first things we will do at your consultation is use VECTRA imaging technology to take a 3D image of your face. This exciting technology will allow us to show you the red and brown sun damage in your skin on the 3D image. We are excited and proud to offer this amazing technology to our patients.

You will meet with one of our Certified Medical Laser Technicians and choose a date for your “Forever Young” Broad Band Light (BBL) procedures to begin. You should avoid sun exposure for a minimum of two weeks before your Broad Band Light (BBL)/ Photofacial treatment. You should not have tan skin. If your skin is more darkly pigmented or is tan, the energy from the BBL devise will be absorbed by the skin and not the brown and red spots that we are attempting to eliminate.

“Forever Young” Broad Band Light (BBL) takes about 60 minutes to a couple of hours depending on the area and number of areas we are targeting. The technician will cover your eyes using protective eye shields. She will apply a cool gel to your skin and then use the BBL device to apply energy to the targeted red and brown spots at the desired wavelength. You will see a “flash” of light each time the pedal of the BBL is depressed and energy is delivered. This “flash” is very bright and can be startling to patients the first time. Cool compresses may be used for comfort to cool the area if necessary.

After “Forever Young” Broad Band Light (BBL) you should avoid hot tubs, the gym or excessive sun exposure for 24 hours. You will see your red and brown spots turn dark and “sluff” off over the course of 3-5 days. After a few treatments you will notice less and less pigment being lifted from the skin. If you have any questions during the recovery phase, please call the office any time, day or night.

“Forever Young” Broad Band Light (BBL) will reduce age spots, freckles, redness, acne and small vascular lesions. After a “Forever Young” Broad Band Light (BBL) treatment your skin will be more even, the spots in your skin will be significantly reduced and your complexion will appear more bright and youthful. You will have a refreshed, rejuvenated and more youthful appearance

“Forever Young” Broad Band Light (BBL) has risks, and it is your personal decision whether benefits outweigh the risks. Common risks include hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation and the need for additional procedures. Most of these are temporary. There are also more uncommon, complicated risks, such as scaring, burning of the skin, injury to the eye, etc. For a full list of risks, go to www.plasticsurgery.org.