An optometrist administering Intense Pulsed Light Treatment to a patient for dry eye syndrome, demonstrating advanced eye care techniques.

Intense Pulsed Light Treatment for Dry Eyes

Living with dry eyes can be both uncomfortable and frustrating. At Leightons, we provide Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, a gentle and effective treatment specifically designed for individuals suffering from dry eye disease. Consult to ensure this treatment is appropriate for your specific needs.

What to Expect During Your IPL Treatment

When you come in for your Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment for dry eyes, you can expect a quick and comfortable procedure. The treatment itself typically lasts around 10–15 minutes, with the whole appointment taking about 30 minutes. During the procedure, your eyes will be carefully protected, and a skilled practitioner will use a handheld device to deliver gentle pulses of light around your eyelids. These light pulses:

  • Help unblock the Meibomian glands, which produce the oily layer of your tears
  • Reduce inflammation and improve the quality of your tear film
  • Promote better oil flow from the glands, stabilising your tear film and reducing evaporation

IPL treatment is designed to provide long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms and slow the progression of chronic dry eye, making it an effective option for those who haven’t found relief with conventional treatments.

Close-up of an optometrist administering Intense Pulsed Light Treatment for dry eyes on a patient's face.

Who Should Have IPL Treatment

Before undergoing IPL, it's crucial to have a comprehensive Dry Eye Consultation with your optometrist. They will assess your eyes to determine if you're a suitable candidate for IPL, discuss potential benefits and risks specific to your case, and address any questions you may have about the treatment. IPL may be suitable for you if:

  • You have been diagnosed with dry eye disease, especially MGD.
  • You frequently get infected glands that cause bumps in your eyelids.
  • You have been diagnosed with demodex blepharitis.
  • You suffer with rosacea in and around your eyes.
  • You experience symptoms such as redness, irritation, burning, or a gritty sensation in your eyes.
  • Conventional treatments like artificial tears, warm compresses, or medications have not provided sufficient relief.
Close-up of an optometrist examining a patient's eyes with a slit lamp during a dry eye assessment, demonstrating specialised diagnostic techniques.

Book an appointment

Book online

You can book a dry eye assessment or an eye test with our optometrist at any time using our secure, easy-to-use online booking system. Please note, IPL treatment is available only at our Southampton and St Albans locations.

Book by Phone

Call us on 0800 40 20 20. Lines are open Monday to Saturday, 8:30am to 5:00pm. Our team is available for appointment bookings as well as to answer to any queries you may have.

Frequently Asked Questions

The cost of your IPL treatment for dry eyes is £200 per session. However, if you enroll in our MyLeightons Care Plan, the price is reduced to £160. This plan not only offers savings on IPL treatments but also includes a range of additional benefits for your eye and hearing care needs.

Follow-up appointments, which cost £99, are fully included with the MyLeightons plan at no extra charge.

IPL treatment for dry eyes offers several significant advantages:

  • Reduction in Dry Eye Symptoms: Many patients experience significant relief from symptoms such as dryness, irritation, and redness.
  • Improved Quality of Life: Better eye comfort can enhance daily activities, reduce dependency on artificial tears, and improve overall quality of life.
  • Non-Invasive and Quick: The treatment is relatively quick, non-invasive, and you can resume your normal activities immediately after the procedure.

Most patients typically require 3 to 4 IPL treatments, spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart, to achieve optimal results. This schedule allows for proper skin healing and cell turnover between sessions.

After completing the initial series, maintenance treatments may be recommended every 6 to 12 months, depending on the severity of your condition and how well your skin responds to the therapy. Your eye care professional will assess your progress and tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs, ensuring the best possible outcome for your dry eye symptoms.

After your IPL treatment, you can typically return to your normal activities immediately. Some patients find it soothing to apply aloe vera gel to the treated area. To protect your skin, we recommend wearing sunscreen on the treated area daily for two weeks following each session, especially if you'll be exposed to sunlight.

Symptom relief varies among patients. Some experience immediate improvement, while others notice gradual relief over the course of their treatments. To monitor your progress and determine if additional treatments are necessary, your optometrist will schedule follow-up appointments. These check-ups are crucial for ensuring the best possible outcome from your IPL therapy.

Like any medical procedure, IPL has potential risks and side effects, though they are generally mild and temporary. These may include:

  • Temporary Redness or Swelling: Mild redness or swelling around the treated area, which usually subsides within a few hours.
  • Discomfort: Some patients may experience slight discomfort or a warm sensation during the procedure.
  • Skin Pigmentation Changes: In rare cases, temporary changes in skin pigmentation may occur. We advise to pause using retinol for the duration of the full course of IPL treatments.