At About Skin, providing safe, effective, and consistent treatments is at the heart of everything we do. That’s why our clinic invests in Cutera and Candela, two of the world’s leading medical‑grade aesthetic technology brands.
Many clinics in Auckland promote BBL (BroadBand Light) or IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) devices as “gold standard” treatments. While these systems can be effective, they are broad‑spectrum light technologies rather than true lasers. Our decision to use Cutera and Candela platforms comes down to precision, safety, and tailored results for all skin types.
If you’re researching the best approach for your skin, here’s what sets us apart.
The Difference Between Generic BBL/IPL and Our Systems
|
Feature |
BBL/IPL (General) |
Cutera & Candela (Our Systems) |
|
Energy Source |
Broad-spectrum light (~500–1200 nm) |
Single or dual wavelength lasers + integrated RF on some platforms |
|
Pulse Control |
Varies by brand, often less consistent |
Square, even pulses for uniform heating and reduced risk |
|
Depth Precision |
Superficial — targets surface pigment/vessels |
Adjustable depth targeting for pigment, vessels, collagen, or hair |
|
Skin-Type Range |
Best for I–III (some IV cautiously) |
Safe for I–VI when correctly parametered |
|
Cooling/Comfort |
Contact or gel cooling |
Integrated dynamic cooling (cryogen/air + sapphire tips) for safety and comfort |
|
Consistency |
Can drift with age/calibration |
Stable, medical-grade calibration and self-check systems |
|
Regulatory Grade |
Cosmetic or medical-cosmetic |
Full medical-grade (FDA/CE approved) systems used in dermatology clinics |
What This Means When Choosing a Laser Clinic and Its Technology
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Predictable, long‑term results – Energy delivery is consistent and reaches the correct depth on every pulse.
-
Lower risk of burns or pigment changes – Integrated cooling and real‑time feedback help maintain safe skin temperatures.
-
More customisable treatments – We can precisely target pigment, redness, texture, or laxity using tailored wavelengths and pulse shapes.
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Safe for more skin tones – Even Fitzpatrick IV–VI skin types can often be treated safely with Cutera’s Nd:YAG and Candela’s cooling systems.
In Simple Terms
We know clients sometimes ask, “What’s the difference between BBL and what you use?”
Here’s how we explain it:
“BBL is a branded form of IPL — a flash of broad light that targets pigment and redness. Our platforms use true medical‑grade lasers and hybrid radiofrequency for deeper, more controlled results with improved safety.”
And when it comes to performance and safety:
“Cutera and Candela give us total control over pulse shape, cooling, and wavelength. That means more powerful yet safer treatments for your skin.”
While BBL can work well on fair skin types, our systems achieve equivalent or better outcomes with reduced risk and longer‑lasting results.
Example Device Match‑Ups
|
Concern |
Commonly Marketed BBL/IPL Treatment |
Our Equivalent or Superior Option |
|
Sun damage, freckles, redness |
BBL “Forever Flawless” or “Forever Young” |
Cutera Limelight IPL or Elos SRA (IPL + RF) – safer, equal or better correction with lower risk |
|
Vascular/redness/rosacea |
BBL filters 560–590 nm |
Cutera Nd:YAG 1064 nm – penetrates deeper, ideal for facial veins and redness |
|
Skin laxity/fine lines |
Often bundled as “Forever Young BBL” |
Candela Sublime RF or Cutera Titan Infrared – heat collagen deeply, non‑invasive lift |
|
Acne, scarring, texture |
BBL Hero / MOXI (light resurfacing) |
Sublative RF or Cutera Genesis Laser – real collagen remodeling, safe for all tones |
|
Hair removal |
BBL “Hair Reduction” modes |
Candela GentleLase Pro / Motif LHR Diode – faster, safer, permanent reduction |
Technology That Delivers Real, Lasting Results
Technology doesn’t replace skill—but it amplifies it. By combining top‑tier systems with experienced treatment specialists, we can offer results that are both medically safe and aesthetically refined.
At About Skin, you’re not just paying for a treatment. You’re investing in the precision, safety, and reliability of medical‑grade technology used by dermatologists and plastic surgeons worldwide.
Visit our laser skin clinic in Auckland to learn more about our advanced treatment options or book a skin consultation today.
