Dealing with Enlarged Pores and Oily Skin in Tropical Weather: Is BB-L the Answer?
If you live in Singapore, you likely know the struggle of managing oily skin and visible pores. The city’s tropical climate—marked by year-round humidity and heat—can cause overactive sebaceous glands and clogged pores, resulting in shiny skin, acne breakouts, and uneven texture.
At Asimont Clinic, one of the most common concerns we hear from patients is: “Why do my pores look so big even though I use all the right skincare products?” For those seeking a non-invasive, evidence-based solution, Broadband Light (BB-L) therapy is increasingly considered a suitable option to help improve these symptoms.
Why Oily Skin and Large Pores Are So Common in Singapore
Oily skin occurs when sebaceous glands produce excess sebum (oil), and this issue is amplified by external conditions:
1. Humidity and Heat
Singapore’s humid weather encourages sweat and oil production, leading to a persistent greasy appearance.
2. Urban Pollution
Air pollutants clog pores and contribute to dullness and texture irregularities.
3. Inappropriate Skincare
Using harsh cleansers or overly drying products can strip the skin’s barrier, triggering even more oil production.
4. Genetics and Age
Some people are genetically predisposed to larger pores. As we age, reduced collagen support makes pores appear even more prominent.
Understanding the Role of Pores
Pores are tiny openings that release oil and sweat. While they are essential for skin health, they can appear larger when:
- They are clogged with dead skin cells and oil
- The surrounding skin loses elasticity
- Oil production is excessive, stretching the pore walls
Topical solutions may help regulate oil to an extent, but they often cannot address deeper issues like collagen support and skin texture. That’s where BBL comes in.
What Is BB-L and How Does It Work?
Broadband Light (BB-L) is a form of advanced light therapy that delivers pulses of visible and infrared light into the skin. It’s a non-invasive treatment used to target:
- Enlarged pores
- Uneven skin texture
- Acne
- Excess oil
- General skin dullness
Using a handpiece, BB-L safely heats the upper dermis, stimulating collagen production and reducing overactive oil glands.
How BB-L Targets Oily Skin and Pores
BB-L uses a dual-action mechanism to improve pore size and oil regulation:
1. Thermal Stimulation
The heat from the light pulses encourages fibroblasts to produce collagen. This tightens the surrounding tissue, making pores appear smaller over time.
2. Sebaceous Gland Regulation
BB-L may help reduce sebum output by targeting overactive oil glands with controlled energy, particularly in the T-zone.
Some BB-L settings are also used to address acne, reducing inflammation and the appearance of post-acne marks.
Who Is a Good Candidate for BBL?
BBL may be suitable for:
- Individuals with oily, shiny skin and visible pores
- Those who experience mild to moderate acne
- People with rough or uneven skin texture
- Those who want clearer, less congested skin
BBL may not be recommended for:
- Individuals with very dark skin types (due to potential pigment sensitivity)
- Those with active sunburn, infections, or certain skin conditions
A personalised skin assessment at Asimont Clinic is essential to determine your suitability.
What Areas Can Be Treated?
BBL can be applied to various areas:
- Face (especially nose, cheeks, and forehead)
- Neck and jawline
- Upper back (for acne-prone skin)
What to Expect During a BBL Session
- Consultation: Your skin type and oil levels will be assessed.
- Preparation: The skin is cleansed and protective eyewear is applied.
- Treatment: The BBL device emits light pulses across the treatment zones. Most patients describe a gentle warmth or snapping sensation.
- Aftercare: Sunscreen is applied and a gentle skincare regimen is recommended.
Sessions typically last 20–40 minutes depending on the size of the area.
Recovery and Aftercare
Downtime is minimal. You may notice:
- Slight redness that subsides in a few hours
- A light bronzing or temporary flaking as the skin renews
Aftercare includes:
- Avoiding exfoliants or retinoids for a few days
- Using non-comedogenic, calming moisturisers
- Applying SPF daily to maintain results
How Many Sessions Are Required?
Most patients see noticeable improvement after 2–3 sessions, with best results after a series of 3–5 treatments spaced 3–4 weeks apart.
Maintenance every 6–12 months helps regulate oil and maintain skin clarity in Singapore’s climate.
Combining BBL with Other Treatments
At Asimont Clinic, we may recommend combining BBL with:
- Korean PN Skin Booster to hydrate and support skin barrier function
- Medical facials to clear clogged pores
- BTX for oil control in specific areas like the forehead
Treatment plans are customised to meet each individual’s skin condition and goals.
Why Choose Asimont Clinic for BBL?
Our medical team provides personalised care with:
- MOH-licensed protocols
- Thorough skin evaluations
- Customised treatment intensity
- Clinical-grade skincare support
We prioritise your safety and results with every session.
Conclusion: Shine Less, Glow More
In Singapore’s heat and humidity, oily skin and enlarged pores can feel like a never-ending battle. BBL offers a medically-supported, non-invasive option to address oil control and refine pore appearance over time.
With proper evaluation, aftercare, and a customised plan, you can work toward smoother, clearer, and more balanced skin.
📩 Ready to Start?
If oily skin or visible pores are affecting your confidence, book a consultation at Asimont Clinic. Our doctors will evaluate your skin and help determine if BBL is the right treatment for your concerns.
