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BBL vs Laser: What’s the Difference and Which One Does Your Skin Actually Need?

By June 22, 2025No Comments

If you’ve ever found yourself Googling “What’s the difference between BBL and laser?”—you’re not alone. In fact, many patients walk into our clinics thinking they’re the same thing (they’re not). So, let’s clear things up…

At Dermology, we use Sciton’s BBL (BroadBand Light) technology and medical-grade lasers. But which one do we recommend for your skin concern?

First, what is BBL?

BBL stands for BroadBand Light, and no—it’s not a laser.

It’s a next-generation light-based technology that gently delivers light energy into the skin to target pigmentation, inflammation, redness, acne, and even signs of ageing like fine lines and collagen loss.

At Dermology, we use the BBL HERO and HEROic systems, which are considered the most advanced in the world for:

  • Even skin tone

  • Rosacea

  • Sun damage

  • Inflammation

  • Anti-ageing maintenance (You might have seen our reel that went out the other day, talking about our BBL Photofacial… this is it)

BY THE WAY: Did you know that Dermology Sandton is the only clinic in Africa who has the BBL HEROic device?? Yes, that is us 🙂

So… what is a laser then?

Unlike BBL, lasers use a single, focused wavelength of light to treat deeper skin layers with precision.

At Dermology, our medical lasers (like HALO and MOXI) are used for:

  • Skin resurfacing

  • Texture refinement

  • Deep wrinkles and scars

  • Collagen remodelling

  • Stubborn pigmentation (melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)

Lasers can be ablative or non-ablative, meaning some offer more dramatic results, while others focus on maintenance with little downtime.

Key Differences at a Glance:

Feature BBL Laser
Type of energy Light Laser beam
Targets Pigment, vessels, inflammation, general ageing Texture, scarring, deep pigment
Downtime Minimal to none Varies (from none to 5-7 days)
Pain level Comfortable, even relaxing Slightly more intense depending on depth
Ideal for Redness, sun spots, dull skin, acne Wrinkles, deep pigment, scarring, collagen loss

Can you combine them?

Yes—and at Dermology, we often do.

For example, many of our patients do:

  • BBL HERO first, to calm inflammation and even skin tone,

  • Followed by HALO or MOXI, to resurface texture and boost long-term results.

  • Better yet, is to add Exosomes onto this combo!

This combo gives the best of both worlds: a radiant surface + deeply rejuvenated structure.

Still not sure what your skin needs?

That’s exactly why we offer customised consultations. Our team of qualified Dermal Aestheticians will guide you to the treatment plan that works best for your skin, your goals, and your schedule.

Quick Summary:

  • BBL = light-based, zero downtime, ideal for tone, redness & inflammation

  • Laser = deeper action, texture + collagen + pigment correction

  • Combining both? That’s where the Dermology magic happens.

Book a consultation at your closest Dermology:

📍 SANDTON | 076 424 8809

📍 PAARL | 072 817 8160

📍 GROENKLOOF | 072 094 1673

📍 BALLITO | 064 803 2300

📍 CAPE TOWN | 072 666 5742

 

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