Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) for Dry Eye Disease
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy, is a common dermatology treatment used to address rosacea, sun damage, and acne scarring of the skin. In 2000, it was discovered that IPL improved patients with dry eye disease and over the past 2 decades, IPL has been refined for the treatment around the eyes and eyelid. Under the guidance of an ophthalmologist, IPL is now available to address chronic dry eye disease and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction of the eyelids. IPL Therapy for dry eye is one of the most groundbreaking approaches to treating dry eye disease.
IPL has been shown to dramatically reduce Demodex when studied via punch biopsy before and after treatment. IPL lowers the inflammatory cytokine matrix metalloproteinase 9, a protease that literally “eats” the cornea. Questions remain around the exact mechanism at work and if IPL is definitively killing Demodex; Dr. Fishman has written a sentimental paper in this area proving for the first time that IPL can kill Demodex. Click here to see Dr. Fishman’s IPL Demodex kill research video.
The Procedure
During the procedure, a strategic level of light pulses is administered to penetrate the skin under the eye and targets the root cause of the inflammation. As the IPL treatment treats your overall skin appearance, your eyelid inflammation is treated and improved as well. IPL procedures are effective, gentle and safe.
For optimal results, 3-5 sessions are typically recommended, with 3-4 weeks in between. Maintenance treatments, usually once every 6-12 months, are also recommended for optimal long-term results.
