Locations in Chicago & Glenview, IL

What’s the difference between BBL HERO and BBL HEROic
In Chicago & Glenview, IL

Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago & Glenview, IL is led by Dr. John D. Rachel, MD, FACS, a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who is quadruple board-certified.

Medically reviewed for accuracy.

BBL® HEROic™ vs. Regular BBL: Understanding the Difference

Not all laser and light treatments are the same, and BBL HEROic by Sciton is the latest innovation in BroadBand Light (BBL®) therapy. Designed for all skin types and concerns, BBL HEROic offers advanced technology and enhanced effectiveness, making it one of the most powerful and versatile skin rejuvenation treatments available today. Both BBL (BroadBand Light) and BBL HEROic are powerful technologies for treating pigmentation, sun damage, and skin concerns, but they differ in speed, effectiveness, and comfort. Here are five differences to help you understand which treatment is right for you:

1. Technology & Treatment Precision

  • BBL HEROic: The latest and most advanced version of BBL, featuring enhanced filters that deliver higher energy levels while maintaining safety. This allows for deeper penetration and more effective treatment of stubborn pigmentation and skin concerns.
  • Regular BBL: Uses a range of adjustable wavelengths and filters to target various skin concerns, making it versatile but less powerful than BBL HEROic.

2. Treatment Speed

  • BBL HEROic: Designed with a larger spot size (15x45mm) and a higher repetition rate, allowing it to treat larger areas faster. This reduces overall treatment time, making it more convenient for both patients and practitioners.
  • Regular BBL: Effective but requires more time and multiple sessions to achieve similar results. Treatment time varies based on the settings and area being treated.

3. Comfort & Safety

  • BBL HEROic: Features an integrated cooling system and advanced technology to minimize discomfort. Patients experience less pain, redness, and swelling, making it a more comfortable option.
  • Regular BBL: Generally well-tolerated but may cause mild discomfort, often described as a snapping or warming sensation during treatment.

4. Downtime & Recovery

  • BBL HEROic: Designed to reduce downtime, making it ideal for busy individuals who want effective results with minimal disruption to their routine.
  • Regular BBL: Also has minimal downtime, but redness and mild swelling may last a bit longer compared to BBL HEROic.

5. Results & Effectiveness

  • BBL HEROic: Provides faster, more noticeable results, especially for deeper pigmentation issues. Fewer sessions may be needed compared to regular BBL.
  • Regular BBL: Works well for mild to moderate pigmentation but may require more sessions to achieve the same level of improvement as BBL HEROic.

Why Choose BBL HEROic?

BBL HEROic offers four times the speed, three times the peak power, and twice the cooling capacity of traditional BBL. Its smart filters, large spot size, and magnetic adapters allow for treating multiple skin conditions on the face and body in a single session. Large areas, such as the back, arms, and legs, can be treated in as little as 2–5 minutes.

Which Treatment is Right for You?

Both BBL HEROic and regular BBL are effective, but the best option depends on:
✔ Your skin concerns (mild vs. stubborn pigmentation)
✔ Your desired results (fewer vs. more sessions)
✔ Your lifestyle (minimal vs. slightly longer downtime)
✔ Your provider’s recommendation

A qualified esthetician or healthcare provider can assess your skin needs and help determine if BBL HEROic is the right choice for you. If you’re looking for faster, more effective, and more comfortable skin rejuvenation, BBL HEROic is the superior choice.

Chicago Aesthetics Dr. Kafali And Dr. Truong

About Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa

At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa, we offer state-of-the-art laser treatments for the face and body. Our experienced team specializes in a wide range of skin, body and facial rejuvenation treatments including laser hair removal, skin resurfacing, and more. Achieve flawless, radiant skin with and contact us 312.846.1629 or fill out a contact form request today.

Chicago Aesthetics
Reviews & Testimonials

Excellent4.8263 reviews
4.8
Excellent263 reviews
Sam profile picture
Sam
October 2, 2026
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Alison and Tom are the best. They have a tailored approach and explain what and why they recommend treatments. I’m so excited to be working with them as I head into my bridal era - I know I will look my best with their help. 100000/10 recommend to everyone but especially brides 😃
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Neha Patel
September 22, 2026
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New update: I had a wonderful experience with Carol. She was professional, knowledgeable and paid attention to every detail to clearly explain my skin concerns. I’ll definitely be coming back! The moment I walked into the clinic I felt a happy, welcomed and professional setting. I had my Sofwave treatment with Alison Falada, Master Esthetician and Laser Specialist. She was nothing short of amazing! She was personable, knowledgeable, skilled and detailed throughout the entire experience. She took the time to thoroughly explain the entire process, addressed all of my my questions and concerns. Alison is an expert and provided great quality service! I love my results and can't wait to book my next appointment with her!
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Chris C
September 20, 2026
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Carol has been doing my Botox for the last few years. She is kind, easy to talk to, makes herself available and approachable! Always feel at ease when I come see her and she does great work, goes by so fast, we are always done before I even know it. Highly recommend visiting her.
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Anika Tylek
September 19, 2026
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Tom's kindness and incredible knowledge make it easy for me to trust him with my procedures. I cannot recommend him enough! I've had a great experience with him and will absolutely continue seeing him!
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Ruby Kelly
September 18, 2026
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I’ve been seeing Carol for Botox for over two years, and she is absolutely amazing! I trust her completely with my face. She always takes the time to listen to what I want and makes sure my results look natural and beautiful—she never overdoes it. I especially appreciate how honest she is; she will tell you when you don’t need something rather than trying to sell you more treatments. Carol truly cares about her patients and always makes me feel comfortable, welcomed, and at home. She is professional, knowledgeable, gentle, and incredibly attentive. I always leave feeling confident and happy with my results. It’s hard to find someone you can trust this much, and I’m so grateful I found Carol.
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Nathaly Acuna
September 18, 2026
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Everyone from the Doctors to staff, are amazingly professional and so sweet! Dr. Rachael’s knowledge and bedside manner make you feel so comfortable and at ease. I can’t recommend them enough!
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Carson Getz
September 17, 2026
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Had a great experience with Stephanie for my HydraFacial. She was super knowledgeable and taught me how to maintain that healthy, youthful skin I'm working so hard to hold onto. She made this experience comfortable, professional and genuinely enjoyable. Thank you Stephanie!
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Carol Sanchez
September 17, 2026
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I had an amazing experience with my Moxi laser treatment with Stephanie! She was incredibly knowledgeable and made me feel comfortable from start to finish. She thoroughly explained what to expect before, during, and after the procedure and gave me clear, detailed instructions for caring for my skin at home. I truly felt cared for throughout the entire experience and am so excited to see my results! I highly recommend Stephanie to anyone considering Moxi or any other service.
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Valentina Cortez
September 15, 2026
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Just got laser hair removal with Stephanie for the first time, and I had such a great experience. The process was super fast and easy, and Stephanie was great. Looking forward to my next appointment!
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Marim_93
September 15, 2026
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My experience at Chicago Aesthetics has always been positive. I am so grateful to Stephanie for her guidance and expertise on my treatment plan over the past year. She was thoughtful in her approach to treating my hyperpigmentation and acne and always informed me on what was going on during each treatment and why we were doing it. I wouldn’t go to anyone else and highly highly recommend her! Also, the ladies at the front desk are always so kind and make the booking process and check in/check out process go smoothly.

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Enhance your natural beauty with personalized skin, body, and wellness treatments from Chicago’s trusted med spa, led by Dr. John D. Rachel.