What is BB Glow?
We’ve all heard of CC and BB creams but you might not have heard of the BB Glow procedure. BB Glow is a semi-permanent procedure that infuses pigmented serums full of vitamins through microneedling to provide a beneficial skin treatment that tints the skin leaving a lasting glow effect. Not to be confused, BB creams are typically bought from a cosmetic or drug store whereas BB Glow serums come in vials specifically meant for microneedling.
The treatment originated in South Korea but is gaining popularity all around the world. The results typically last anywhere from 4-8 months and are perfect for those looking to toss their makeup or get that extra “glow” before a big event. BB Glow is said to help hide and diminish age spots, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and fine lines, uneven complexion, large pores, and scarring.
More About Microneedling
This procedure seems to be the perfect solution to ridding that cakey foundation and creating natural flawless skin but we are going to dive in a little deeper to uncover some of the potential risks and concerns with the treatment. Beginning with the device itself, microneedling is considered an invasive procedure as it disrupts the skin’s surface by creating microscopic channels using dozens of tiny sterilized needles. This replicates the body’s natural healing process and in turn, produces more collagen and elastin.
There are different needle types and depths in which microneedling can be performed. Anything below a 0.5mm depth can typically be performed at home and is usually done using a dermaroller. This is considered cosmetic needling. A depth of about 0.5mm is for professional use only and enters past the stratum corneum (the upper-most layer of the skin). This is important to understand as we look further into these BB Glow serums and the ingredients.
Why We Should Rethink BB Glow:
While these BB Glow serums are packed with vitamins and other skin-healthy ingredients, most usually contain a few ingredients that are not so favorable, and not to mention that many are not FDA-approved for injection (non-cosmetic deep needling). When these serums are microneedled into the skin, they are being introduced into the deeper layers of the skin which can cause some concern.
Titanium dioxide is the first ingredient that is most associated poorly with BB Glow procedures. This ingredient is a blend of brown and red pigments to resemble the skin tone, however, it has been known to turn black or blue when exposed to laser. This can potentially lead to permanent skin discoloration. Not only is this concerning but it is also known for being difficult to remove, which can build up over time and again, lead to discoloration and possible scarring.
Fragrances are another ingredient that many typically avoid in their skincare products. This can cause sensitivities and even allergic reactions. Microneedling any sort of fragrance into the skin should be avoided if you experience any sort of sensitivities. Other ingredients found in these serms that are most often associated with allergic reactions include methylparaben, propylparaben, mineral oil, sorbitan sesquioleate, and phenoxyethanol.
Overall, the concern with microneedling these BB Glow serums into the skin include allergic reactions, scarring, and permanent discoloration which is an opposite effect than what the BB Glow procedure was actually intended for.
BB Glow… But Better
Scalpa has taken the general idea of BB Glow but created a truly “good for your skin” natural treatment. Utilizing natural ingredients and eliminating the concerning ingredients, Scalpa was able to formulate an amazing serum that tints, benefits, and leaves the skin glowing with little to no risks.
To start, Scalpa Shine is not performed with a microneedle but instead a nano needle. A nano needle is composed of 81 silicon or stainless steel tips that do not penetrate past the stratum corneum layer of the skin. By using nano instead of a microneedle, there is less risk associated with the serums penetrating the skin too deeply.
Instead of using highly pigmented ingredients like titanium dioxide, the Scalpa Shine serums use Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Sophora Flavescens Root Extract, and Pelargonium Graveolens Extract to tint the skin. This treatment can be performed multiple times without concern of pigment buildup and long-term discoloration.
Lastly, there are no fragrances within this serum so there is less concern for skin sensitivity. The ingredients are natural, beneficial for common skin concerns, and leave a lasting glow. Results typically last anywhere from 2-6 months and best results come from multiple sessions. Scalpa has created four different shades that can be mixed or used directly to ensure perfect shade matching.
Scalpa offers a Shine Semi-Permanent Foundation training course online to learn the procedure in-depth to begin offering this service. Learn health and safety, microneedling, consultation, highlighting and contouring, the application process, watch live procedural videos, and become a certified Scalpa Shine artist in your area.
Whether you are a professional offering this service or a client looking for the perfect glow, it is important to always look into the ingredients going into your skin and the risk factors associated with any procedure.
