- Home
- Laser And Lights
- BROADBAND LIGHT (BBL®)
RESTORE A CLEARER, MORE YOUTHFUL COMPLEXION FOR THE PALM DESERT, INDIO, AND LOS ANGELES AREA
FAQs
California’s sun-soaked climate may be ideal for outdoor living, but it can be harsh on your skin. Prolonged UV exposure, dry air, and environmental stressors accelerate the visible signs of aging—causing discoloration, fine lines, redness, and rough texture that skincare alone can’t correct. Light therapy treatments offer a powerful way to restore youthful radiance to the skin. BroadBand Light (BBL®) for the Los Angeles area at Cosmetic Surgery Institute in Palm Desert is one of the most advanced forms of light-based skin rejuvenation available today. BBL®, available for Palm Springs, Riverside, Indio, and beyond, delivers noticeable improvements in tone, texture, and clarity—without surgery or extensive downtime.
Ready to refresh your skin and bring back your glow? Learn more about BroadBand Light (BBL®) for the Los Angeles area at Palm Desert′s Cosmetic Surgery Institute. Call (760) 837-0364 or fill out a form online to book your personalized consultation.

Thursday, February 13th, 2025 | 4:00 - 7:00 PM
Galentine's Event
Meet & Greet with Dr. Mo Zakhireh and Aestheticians
Light Bites and Refreshments
Custom Hats & Jewelry from Cowboys and Angel Custom Hats
All guests will have access to exclusive deals plus a chance to WIN Skinceuticals Products, SC Robe, Facial and I Syringe of Filler from RAFFLE CONTEST
Call 760-837-0364 or register on our website to RSVP!
WHY YOUR SKIN AGES—AND HOW BBL® CAN HELP REVERSE IT
Collagen is your skin’s natural support system—keeping it firm, resilient, and smooth. But as we age, collagen production slows. Each passing year means less structure beneath the surface, leading to sagging, thinning, and the fine lines we associate with aging. On top of that, your skin is constantly under attack from environmental stressors: UV exposure, pollution, gravity, and even harsh skincare products can accelerate visible damage.
That’s where BroadBand Light (BBL®) comes in. BBL® doesn’t just mask these issues—it targets them at the source.
WHAT CAN BBL® IMPROVE?
BBL® can treat a wide range of skin conditions, including:
- Age spots and sunspots
- Freckles and melasma
- Redness and rosacea
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne and acne scars
- Enlarged pores
- Uneven skin tone and texture
- Visible vessels (telangiectasias)
- Cherry angiomas and pigmented lesions
The BBL® device can also treat acne by killing the bacteria that cause pimples and other flareups, then reducing existing inflammation and encouraging natural healing. BBL® treatments can be done on the face, neck, chest, arms, and hands—even on the back and shoulders for acne, and other areas of the body as well.
HOW DOES BBL® WORK AND IS IT THE SAME AS INTENSE PULSED LIGHT (IPL)?
BBL® is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that uses pulses of light to rejuvenate your skin from the inside out. It’s not just about looking refreshed—it’s about boosting your skin’s natural ability to heal and renew.
Whether you’re dealing with sun damage, uneven tone, or early signs of aging, BBL® works beneath the surface to promote healthier, clearer, and more radiant skin. By addressing the underlying causes of aging, it restores clarity, tone, and a more youthful glow—making it a powerful option for anyone looking to reverse the signs of time and damage.
A common question we receive is: “What is the difference between IPL and Sciton BBL®?” Though often compared, these treatments are not the same. While both BBL® and IPL use light-based energy to target pigmentation, redness, and other imperfections, BroadBand Light is far more advanced in both precision and efficacy.

BroadBand Light (BBL®) at Palm Desert’s Cosmetic Surgery Institute, a customizable and powerful form of light therapy, targets darker-pigmented cells in the skin, treating pigmented and vascular lesions by heating the visible vessels or spots. It can also smooth texture irregularities and reduce acne.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The best candidates for BroadBand Light therapy are those who want to address early signs of aging, redness, pigmentation, or chronic skin conditions like rosacea. This treatment is most effective for patients with lighter skin tones but can be tailored for a range of types using
advanced settings.
However, this treatment may not be suitable if you:
- Are currently pregnant
- Have used Accutane in the last six months
- Have a skin condition that impairs healing
- Are sensitive to light or have had recent sun exposure
Preparing your skin for a BroadBand Light (BBL®) treatment is an essential step in ensuring a safe, effective experience with beautiful results. During your consultation, we’ll assess your skin condition, discuss your goals, and help you understand what to expect. It’s also the perfect time to mention any chronic skin issues—like inflammatory acne or sensitivity—that could affect how your skin responds to the light energy.
To get the most out of your light therapy session, here’s how to prepare for BroadBand Light therapy like a pro:
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 4 to 6 weeks before your appointment. Tanned skin increases your risk of burns, blisters, and uneven pigmentation.
- Stop using self-tanners (including lotions and sprays) for a minimum of 2 weeks prior to treatment.
- Pause exfoliating procedures like waxing, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion during the weeks leading up to your session.
- Discontinue active skincare products such as retinol, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid at least 5 to 7 days beforehand.
- Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements—like aspirin, ibuprofen, or fish oil—for about one week before treatment, unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
These steps help reduce the chance of irritation and ensure your skin is in the best possible condition to respond to this type of light therapy. Following these guidelines not only protects your skin, but also maximizes the treatment’s ability to stimulate collagen, fade discoloration, and give you that radiant post-treatment glow.
BBL® is a quick, comfortable treatment that uses light energy to target unwanted pigmentation, redness, and signs of aging—without damaging the surrounding skin. When the BBL® light enters the skin, it turns into heat as it’s absorbed by darker or damaged cells. This heat helps to remove sun spots, close off small vessels, and kickstart collagen production beneath the surface. The result? Smoother, firmer, and more even-toned skin that looks healthier and more refreshed.
Before your BBL® treatment begins, a topical anesthetic or cooling gel may be applied to keep your skin comfortable. Sessions are fast—often just 10 to 15 minutes—but can take longer depending on how many areas you’re treating. While one session can produce noticeable improvements, most patients need a series of treatments to get the full benefits.
Despite using both light and heat, BBL® is designed to be gentle. Most patients describe the experience as mild and very manageable. If you’re concerned about how it might feel, we’ll go over all your options to ensure you’re completely at ease before we begin.
“Which is better, BBL® or a laser treatment?” It depends on your skin concerns and goals. BBL® is not the same thing as a laser treatment, but it does target many of the same issues that are commonly treated with lasers.
Lasers emit a single wavelength and are often more intense, making them ideal for deep resurfacing or severe pigmentation.
Unlike lasers, BBL® and other light-based treatments emit multiple pulses of high-intensity light so they are highly versatile and can address a wide variety of skin concerns with the same device. BBL® can be effective on various skin tones and types. BBL® is gentler and more versatile, with a broader range of indications and less downtime.
For many patients seeking non-invasive improvement in skin clarity, tone, and texture, BroadBand Light (BBL®) photofacial treatments are the better first step. They’re particularly effective at targeting sun damage and early signs of aging without requiring weeks of recovery.

Meet the doctor
At Cosmetic Surgery Institute of Palm Desert, we approach each patient with imagination and artistry in mind.
Our team of board-certified plastic surgeons and health care professionals offer the latest treatments for beauty and aesthetic enhancements in a safe, welcoming atmosphere.
Meet the doctor
At Cosmetic Surgery Institute of Palm Desert, we approach each patient with imagination and artistry in mind.
Our team of board-certified plastic surgeons and health care professionals offer the latest treatments for beauty and aesthetic enhancements in a safe, welcoming atmosphere.

WHAT TO EXPECT AS YOUR SKIN TRANSFORMS WITH BBL®
Patients will be able to resume their normal activities after BBL®. Recovery is fast, and because the light doesn’t damage the outer layers of skin, there are fewer side effects in comparison to laser skin resurfacing treatments. Expect the treated skin to look red for several hours after a BBL™ session, with the coloring and related sensations similar to a sunburn potentially lasting for one or two days.
The next question you might have is, “How long does it take for light therapy to start working?” Once these initial effects clear naturally on their own, many patients notice a positive visible change—often within just a few days. Lesions treated with BBL® should begin to clear after a week or two. Surface spots will flake away, while visible veins will collapse and be absorbed into the body, taking their distinctive redness with them.
So, how many sessions of BroadBand Light therapy are needed? The number of BroadBand Light (BBL®) sessions you’ll need depends on your skin type, concerns, and goals. Many patients notice visible improvements after just one BBL® treatment, but a series of three to five sessions is often recommended for the best results. Maintenance treatments every few months can help keep your skin clear, smooth, and glowing long-term.
BROADBAND LIGHT (BBL®) TREATMENT AFTERCARE: TIPS FOR RADIANT, HEALTHY SKIN
Be Gentle with Your Skin
Curious about what to do and what not to do after BroadBand light therapy? After your BBL® treatment, your skin may feel warm or appear slightly pink, much like a mild sunburn. This is completely normal and shows that the treatment is working. To help your skin heal, avoid exfoliants, retinoids, topical acne products, and heavily scented skincare for at least a week. Choose soothing cleansers and hydrating moisturizers instead.
Protect Against the Sun
Sun care is the most important step after BBL®. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and reapply throughout the day. Pair sunscreen with physical protection like wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, or lightweight long sleeves. Reducing sun exposure not only prevents irritation but also preserves the benefits of your BBL® results.
Limit Direct UV Exposure
California sunshine is hard to resist, but too much UV can undo your BBL® improvements. Plan outdoor time in the early morning or late afternoon when rays are less intense, and stick to the shade whenever possible.
Commit to Consistency
Think of aftercare as part of your overall BBL® journey. By consistently protecting and nurturing your skin, you’ll maximize the benefits of BroadBand Light BBL® therapy—enjoying smoother, clearer, and more radiant skin long after your treatment.
OTHER ADVANCED OPTIONS FOR TOTAL REJUVENATION
Looking for even more ways to refresh and renew your appearance with laser and light technology? Cosmetic Surgery Institute offers a wide range of advanced treatments beyond BBL®. Laser vein treatments can clear unwanted vessels for a brighter complexion, while laser hair removal provides long-lasting smoothness. For patients concerned about tone, texture, or fine lines, laser skin resurfacing and other laser treatments deliver powerful results, and pairing microneedling with laser technology further stimulates collagen for firmer, healthier-looking skin.
Not all effective treatments rely on light energy. Ultherapy® uses ultrasound technology to lift and tighten skin by targeting the deeper layers often affected by laxity. To complete your transformation, many patients combine these treatments with injectables such as BOTOX® and dermal fillers. Together, these options work to smooth wrinkles, restore youthful contours, and create a fully customized approach to facial rejuvenation.
Thursday, November 14from 4:00 – 7:00 PM
CSI Season Kickoff
Open House
- Light Bites and Champagne
- Complimentary micropeel hand treatments and a SkinScope skin analysis
- Huge raffle to win Skinceuticals products, 10% off Botox or Dysport and one syringe of filler.
- Early access to 12 Days of Christmas Savings on skin treatments, injectables, gift cards, and laser treatments.
73710 Alessandro Drive, Building A1, Palm Desert, CA 92260(760) 837-0364
Want to find out if BBL® for the Los Angeles area at Palm Desert′s Cosmetic Surgery Institute is right for your skin concerns? Learn more about BroadBand Light BBL® cost and your treatment options by contacting our team at (760) 837-0364 to request a consultation.