BBL (Broadband light) aftercare

This information is for patients who have had BBL (Broadband Light) treatment at Spot Check Clinic. BBL treats sun damage, pigmentation and redness with minimal downtime. The skin surface remains intact.

What to expect as the skin heals

• First 24 hours — a sensation similar to mild sunburn is common. Redness and mild puffiness, particularly under the eyes, typically settle within a day.
• Days 2–7 (face) — pigmented spots darken and may look like “coffee grounds.” These naturally flake off — do not scrub or pick the skin.
• Weeks 2–3 (body) — healing on the body takes longer. Pigment darkening may persist for up to 3 weeks before clearing.
• Over several weeks — blood vessels may appear darker or bruised before gradually fading. Skin tone becomes clearer and more even over time.

What is normal after BBL

• Immediate flushing or redness
• Darkening of freckles or age spots
• Tiny grey or dark brown specks on the skin surface
• Mild puffiness, particularly around the eyes, the following day

Contact the clinic if you notice

• Broken, burnt or blistered skin — contact the clinic immediately
• Pain that increases significantly after the first few hours
• Significant swelling that does not settle with cool compresses
• Fever or feeling generally unwell

If the skin blisters or burns

Burns are rare with BBL. If you develop broken, burnt or blistered skin, contact the clinic immediately — email is checked at intervals, including weekends, but is not continuously monitored. If the concern is urgent, seek medical care rather than waiting for an email response. Until you can reach us, apply cool compresses for the first few hours, then apply a paraffin ointment such as Vaseline or Bepanthen to the affected area.

Managing your skin

First 24–48 hours

Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas and hot showers for 24–48 hours. If the area feels warm or uncomfortable, apply a cool compress for 10–15 minutes at a time.

Mild puffiness around the eyes is common. Antihistamines such as Telfast or Claratyne and anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen can help reduce swelling if needed. Paracetamol can be used for mild discomfort.

Cold sores

If you have a history of cold sores on or around your lips, BBL treatment can trigger an outbreak. If we are aware of this history, preventive antiviral medication will be prescribed before your treatment and for several days after.

Skin care

Cleanse twice daily using a gentle soap-free cleanser such as Cetaphil and lukewarm water. Pat dry gently — do not rub or scrub.

Apply a moisturiser generously to the treated area. We recommend SolarCare B3 or La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 to support the skin barrier. Reapply whenever the skin feels dry.

Do not use active skin care products until the skin has fully settled:

• Retinoids and tretinoin
• Vitamin C serums
• AHAs, BHAs and exfoliating acids
• Alcohol-based toners and antiseptics
• Vitamin E cream
• Exfoliants and soaps

Sun protection

The treated area is more prone to pigmentation changes after BBL. Avoid direct sunlight for at least 14 days. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily, even in winter, and reapply at least every 2 hours outdoors and after swimming, sweating or towel drying. Wear a broad-brimmed hat when outside. To maintain results, daily sunscreen use is recommended long-term.

Work and activity

In most cases you can return to normal work immediately after treatment. Avoid strenuous exercise and sweating until the skin has settled.

Your follow-up appointment

Most patients require a series of BBL treatments for the best result. Your doctor or nurse will review your progress and adjust settings for subsequent sessions based on how your skin has responded. To book your next session, please contact the clinic.

If you notice a new or changing spot in the future, it is important to have it assessed with a skin cancer check.