From vampire facelifts to bee venom facials, we are all constantly on the search for the newest anti-aging treatment. The latest trend takes away the bizarre elements and returns to a basic concept: light.

According to our resident expert Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Peter Geldner, this new innovation will have you seeing the light! Read below to find out why: 

What exactly is light therapy?

Light therapy uses different filters of light to treat skin conditions including redness, capillaries, sunspots, acne and aging. The Forever Young BBL (BroadBand Light) Light Facial stimulates changes at the molecular level deep inside the skin, so the gene expression of older, damaged skin cells changes to more closely resemble the genes expressed in younger skin cells.

Are there any other treatments similar to light therapy?

Well, photorejuvenation uses this exact BroadBand Light to minimize capillaries, redness and to remove age spots, blotches or pigmentation and preserve the skin. The treatments give patients an even skin tone with a more youthful look. And the BBL Acne Light uses a blue light to reduce bacteria and active acne. It also helps reduce redness and other colored marks left on the skin from breakouts.

We hear the results last a decade? Is that true?

Studies have included patients treated 10+ years ago with results still visible. I recommend about 2 to 4 BBL treatments per year to maintain consistent, lasting results. 

What makes this so effective? What type of light renders these results?

This treatment delivers light that penetrates through the epidermis and dermis to stimulate changes at the molecular level and visible changes in the surface of the skin. BroadBand Light is used during the process and a variety of filters and wavelengths are adapted for the specific skin condition.  

Any pain or recovery time?

The procedure is safe, noninvasive and gentle. Patients may experience some slight discomfort during the procedure. There may be some redness lasting for an hour or two after treatment, and some light peppering of surface freckles that will eventually fall off. Generally there is little to no downtime.

How much does it cost?

Costs range from $500-$1,000 depending on where you are located and what areas you want treated.

Considering light therapy? Tell us with a note below!