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Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) for Dry Eye – Patient Information

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Preparing for your IPL application

4 IPL applications are recommended in one full course of treatment. Each application takes approximately 15 minutes.

Before application:

  • Avoid direct exposure to sun or artificial tanning in the leading up to each application

  • Remove any skin cream or make‑up from the face

After application:

  • There is no downtime following an IPL application and patients can resume normal activities immediately.

  • Avoid direct sun exposure or use SPF on your face for the following day after application

Treatment Schedule

To achieve long‑lasting and optimal results, 4 applications are recommended.

  1. Application 1 ‑ Day 1

    Short term improvements expected.

  2. Application 2 ‑ Day 15

    Short term improvements expected.

  3. Application 3 ‑ Day 45

    Medium term improvements expected.

  4. Application 4 ‑ Day 75

    Long term improvements expected.

  5. Maintenance

    Following treatment, an annual maintenance application is recommended.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment for Dry Eye

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment is a painless, in‑office procedure that effectively treats the underlying causes of Dry Eye Disease.

It is safe, easy to administer and well‑documented to be effective in the treatment of Dry Eye Disease.

During IPL, gentle pulses of light are delivered to heat the skin around the meibomian glands to melt any obstructions present in the glands. This stimulates the natural flow of oil into the tears, which stabilises the tear film.

While artificial tears, warm compresses, and eyelid scrubs can help soothe dry eyes, they only provide short‑term relief. IPL treats the underlying cause to ensure long‑lasting relief from dry eye symptoms.

Dry Eye Disease and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Dry Eye Disease is a common condition that can profoundly impact eye comfort, vision function, quality of life, work productivity and triggers a cycle of ocular surface damage, inflammation and worsening dry eye symptoms, such as:

  • Burning, gritty, red, tired, itchy eyes

  • Sensitivity to light

  • Blurry vision

  • Excessive tearing

  • Difficulty wearing contact lenses

FAQs for IPL

How effective is IPL treatment for Dry Eye?

Studies have shown a considerable improvement in the symptoms perceived by patients with a 90% satisfaction rate after the first 2 applications. This improvement may be clearly felt from the initial application for the first couple of days and increases with time after each further application.

Are there any side effects of IPL treatment?

IPL treatment is generally considered safe and well‑tolerated with minimal risks. Patients may experience some temporary redness, swelling or sensitivity in the treated area straight after application, which typically subsides within a few hours.

Specsavers stores currently offering IPL treatment:

We’re here to help

If you’ve noticed a change in your vision, or have experienced any symptoms mentioned above, it’s worth booking an appointment with one of our optometrists.

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