Could BBL improve my rosacea without risking worsening my “melasma”? (Photos)

Question

I have had rosacea for 10 years- mostly flushing, but have begun to see more broken capillaries as I age. I was set to try BBL or IPL when these brown splotches showed up on my cheeks, with some hyperpigmentation on my upper lip. A PA told me it was melasma from OCP’s and I was absolutely heartbroken. I’ve read light-based therapies can worsen hyperpigmentation. Was the PA correct and if so- what can I do to improve both conditions without making either one worse?

Daniel Straka, MD · Answer

You are absolutely correct that BBL can cause worsening of your melasma. For this reason I do not use it to treat melasma alone (some people do) because there are other modalities that I feel are more effective. However, this does not mean you can't have BBL for rosacea.  I have performed BBL on patients with melasma very carefully and I typically use lower energy. In addition, I will usually start patients on a topical skin regimen prior to the treatment including bleaching creams (hydroquinone). I would use very conservative BBL settings and monitor your response closely.  I would definitely ask your provider if he/she feels comfortable performing BBL on your skin. An honest provider should be very upfront about this. Good luck!

Michael Law, MD · Answer

Rosacea should be treated with the V-Beam laser, the V-Beam perfecta, or even an older generation pulse dye laser. Lasers, not light sources will be safer and more predictable for any indication. For rosacea, broken capillaries, Poikiloderma of Civatte or other redness on the face, the VBeam is the gold standard of lasers.

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

I would not use IPL OR BBL to treat rosacea. V Beam vascular laser is best. This should be combined with low percentage HQ and 1064 QSL lasers, stay safe. I agree that IPL or BBL has a good chance of flaring rosacea even if the correct filter is used. Dr Davin Lim. Brisbane. Australia.

Could BBL improve my rosacea without risking worsening my “melasma”? (Photos)

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Could BBL improve my rosacea without risking worsening my “melasma”? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about BroadBand Light (BBL)

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.