Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy for dry eyes

If you experience persistent dryness, soreness, or irritation, you’re not alone - around one in five people in the UK are affected by dry eye disease. At Leightons, we offer Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, a clinically proven treatment designed to target the root cause of dry eye and restore long-term comfort.

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What is IPL therapy?

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that uses precise flashes of light to improve the function of the tiny oil glands (meibomian glands) in your eyelids. When these glands become blocked, a condition known as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), your tears lose their natural oils and evaporate too quickly - leaving your eyes dry, itchy, or sore.

Originally developed for skin care, IPL was discovered to significantly improve dry eye symptoms by reducing inflammation, restoring gland function, and improving tear quality. It’s now a well-established, effective treatment for chronic dry eye and related conditions such as blepharitis or ocular rosacea.

IPL therapy helps to:

  • Unblock the meibomian glands
  • Reduce inflammation around the eyes
  • Improve tear film quality and stability
  • Decrease bacteria and mites that contribute to irritation
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What happens during treatment?

Before your treatment begins, your optometrist will explain every step so you know exactly what to expect. The process is simple, comfortable, and designed with your safety in mind.

Preparation

Your eyes are protected with shields and a cooling gel is applied beneath the eyes.

Light Therapy

A handheld IPL device delivers gentle pulses of light to the skin around your eyelids.

The entire session typically takes 30 minutes. The light pulses warm and loosen the blocked oils in your glands, restoring their natural flow and improving tear quality. Most people find the treatment comfortable and can return to normal activities straight afterwards.

Who can benefit from IPL therapy?

You may be suitable for IPL treatment if you:

  • Have been diagnosed with dry eye disease or Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
  • Experience redness, irritation, or a gritty sensation
  • Have rosacea or inflamed eyelids
  • Struggle with recurrent styes
  • Haven’t found relief from standard treatments such as artificial tears or warm compresses

Your optometrist will first complete a Dry Eye Assessment to confirm whether IPL is the right choice for you.

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Treatment plan and results

Most patients require four sessions, spaced two to four weeks apart, to achieve the best results. Maintenance treatments every six to twelve months may be recommended.

After treatment, many people notice:

Reduced dryness, irritation, and redness

Clearer, more stable vision

Less reliance on artificial tears

Greater comfort day to day

Some patients feel relief after their first session, while others see progressive improvement across the treatment course.

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Why choose Leightons for IPL therapy?

Leightons has been caring for patients for nearly 100 years. Our expert clinicians are trained in advanced dry eye management, using the latest Topcon eye-light technology to deliver gentle, effective treatment.

By choosing IPL at Leightons, you’ll benefit from:

  • Specialist clinicians trained in dry eye care
  • Personalised treatment plans and aftercare support
  • Transparent pricing and MyLeightons member benefits
  • A trusted family-run practice focused on your comfort and wellbeing
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MyLeightons member benefits
MyLeightons members enjoy 20% off all eye therapy appointments and dry eye care products - helping you maintain comfort and healthy eyes for less.
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Cost of the IPL treatment

The cost of your IPL treatment for dry eyes is £220 (20% off for MyLeightons members) per session. Your fee includes a detailed consultation with one of our optometrists, your IPL treatment session, and a personalised aftercare plan designed around your dry eye needs.

Available exclusively at our Cobham, Camberley, Southampton, and St Albans practices.

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FAQs

Each IPL session is £220, with an exclusive 20% discount for MyLeightons Care Plan members. It’s a simple way to make expert, ongoing eye care more accessible - helping you look after your vision and comfort with confidence.

IPL therapy is safe and effective for most patients, but there are some conditions that may make treatment unsuitable. You should not undergo IPL therapy if you:

  • Are pregnant
  • Have recently used tanning beds (within 3–4 weeks)
  • Have used isotretinoin within the past year
  • Have active skin infections (such as cold sores or shingles)
  • Have facial tattoos, metallic piercings, or metal implants near the treatment area
  • Have certain skin conditions or take photosensitive medication

Your optometrist will review your medical history in detail to ensure the treatment is safe for you.

Most patients typically benefit from three to four IPL treatments, spaced two to four weeks apart. This allows your eyes time to respond and heal between sessions for the best results. After completing your initial course, your optometrist may recommend a maintenance session every six to twelve months, depending on how your eyes respond to the treatment. Your clinician will guide you at every stage to ensure the best possible outcome.

Side effects are rare and generally mild. You may experience:

  • Temporary redness or swelling (usually subsiding within a few hours)
  • Mild warmth or tingling during treatment
  • Temporary light sensitivity

Wearing sunscreen daily for two weeks after treatment is recommended to protect the treated area. Most people return to normal activities straight away.

You can return to normal activities immediately. Your eyes might feel slightly warm or light-sensitive for a short while. Some people notice improvement straightaway; for others, results build gradually with each session.