Is IPL Good for Dry Eyes?

Dry eyes can cause discomfort and difficulty performing normal daily functions, but several treatments can help relieve the condition. If you have been using eye drops or artificial tears with limited success, you can talk to your doctor about IPL.

Intense pulsed light (IPL) is good for relieving dry eyes. Doctors use this technology to treat the underlying cause of dry eyes.

Intense Pulsed Light Treatment

IPL is a skin treatment that can help improve dry eyes. Dermatologists have been using the technique for over 20 years to treat rosacea. IPL can help treat meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a common cause of dry eyes. The dysfunction results from the failure of the meibomian glands to produce adequate oil to keep the eyes moist.

IPL involves the use of light flashes to the skin surrounding the eyelids. The light is absorbed into the meibomian glands, activating them to produce more oil. It also helps seal the leaky vessels in ocular rosacea.

Assessment for IPL Treatment 

IPL treatment begins with an assessment to diagnose the severity of the condition. A comprehensive exam will determine the patient’s skin type and the severity of the MGD.

After confirming that you are a candidate for IPL, the specialist will design a treatment plan for your condition. You will receive at least four treatment sessions over three months, though doctors perform maintenance sessions every six to 12 months.

Preparing for IPL Treatment

To prepare for IPL treatment, you should avoid extreme sun exposure or exposing your skin to artificial tans or UV light. Also, avoid swimming in a highly chlorinated pool before the treatment.

Do not take ibuprofen or aspirin or exfoliate or use peeling solutions on your skin one week before IPL treatment. Make sure to inform the doctor about any medication you are taking.

The IPL Procedure

Before treatment, the patient will clean the skin to remove all skin products and makeup. The eye specialist will use IPL eye pads and protective goggles to shield the eyes. They apply a conductive gel under the eyelid area, then pass a pulsed light over the area with overlapping flashes.

The doctor will also apply more gel and perform a second pass with the light. They will also remove the gel after the patient has received enough IPL flashes.

Effectiveness of IPL

Most patients notice significant improvement after three sessions. A few people may experience results after the first session. Every individual is different, but 90 percent of patients experience a significant difference after using IPL.

Side Effects of IPL

There are minor side effects associated with IPL treatment, but they are temporary. They include skin redness in the treatment area, discomfort, mucus discharge, a tingling sensation, skin lightening, and slight inflammation.

Proper IPL aftercare will help to ensure that you maintain the treatment results. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and hot showers or baths after the treatment. Apply sunscreen and use moisturizer before applying makeup.

For more details on whether IPL is good for dry eyes, call Ocean Park Optometry at (310) 452-1039 to reach our office in ​​​​​​Santa Monica, California.