Dry eye is a common and uncomfortable condition caused by issues with your tear film, that is, the layer of liquid that covers and lubricates your eyes. Thankfully, intense regulated pulsed light (IRPL) therapy can help.
What is IRPL?
IRPL is an advanced light-based treatment for dry eye, especially if you’re dealing with ongoing discomfort. It is particularly effective in treating meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which is the most common cause of persistent dry eye.
Your meibomian glands produce oils that form the protective outer layer of your tear film, preventing the watery part of your tear film (lacrimal fluid) from evaporating too quickly.
When these glands aren’t working properly, your tear film becomes unstable, leading to dryness, irritation and discomfort.
How does IPRL Differ from IPL?
IRPL and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy are similar treatments, but they have an important difference. IRPL delivers more precise and regulated light pulses than IPL.
In IRPL, the light is broken into smaller, controlled bursts, each adjusted for the right strength and timing, which makes the treatment more effective. In contrast, IPL’s light weakens with each pulse, which can lead to less consistency.
Because IRPL provides more even energy with every pulse, it’s a more reliable treatment for dry eyes.
How does IRPL work?
By applying gentle, controlled light pulses, IRPL:
- Helps your meibomian glands work better
- Clears blockages in your glands
- Reduces inflammation around your eyes
- Restores the oil layer of your tear film, improving the quality and stability of your tear film
- Prevents excessive tear film evaporation
What to Expect During Your Treatment?
IRPL therapy is straightforward, painless and non-invasive. Each session only takes a few minutes. Here’s what to expect during a typical session:
Preparation
To protect your eyes, you’ll be given protective metal goggles to wear. Your optometrist will then apply ultrasound gel around your eyes on your cheekbones and temples.
Application
Your optometrist will use an IRPL® device called TearStim to deliver a series of 5 light pulses under each eye, starting from your upper cheek and moving toward the outer edge.
Completion
The process is then repeated on your other eye.
What Results can You Expect?
Studies show that IRPL is effective in 85% of cases, with 90% of patients reporting satisfaction after just 2 sessions. Many notice improvement from the very first session, with effects that last longer after each treatment.
But IRPL doesn’t just tackle current dry eye symptoms – it helps prevent them from developing in the first place. This makes it a great option if you are at risk of dry eye, for example, if you spend a lot of time looking at screens.
Enjoy the Benefits of IRPL today
Book a consultation with our eye care team today to learn more about how IRPL can help you find long-term relief from dry eye.