What Can I Expect During an iLight IPL Therapy Session?

If you’re struggling with dry, irritated eyes or ocular rosacea, iLight Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy may be recommended as part of your treatment plan. This advanced procedure is designed to target the root cause of evaporative dry eye by gently stimulating the oil-producing glands in your eyelids.
 

What Is iLight Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy?

iLight Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is an advanced treatment designed to address the underlying causes of evaporative dry eye, often linked to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and ocular rosacea. The therapy uses controlled pulses of light applied to the skin around the eyes to reduce inflammation, eliminate abnormal blood vessels that contribute to irritation, and restore the natural function of the meibomian glands.
 

By improving oil flow in the tear film, IPL helps stabilize tears, reduce dryness, and provide long-term relief from symptoms such as burning, redness, and irritation. This non-invasive procedure is safe, effective, and typically performed in a series of sessions for optimal results. Here’s what you can expect during a typical session at Monroe Vision Associates.
 

Initial Preparation

Your session begins with a consultation to ensure you’re a good candidate for IPL therapy. On the day of treatment, your skin will be cleansed, and protective eye shields will be placed to keep your eyes safe during the procedure. A cooling gel is applied to the treatment area around the eyes to help conduct the light energy and maximize comfort.
 

The IPL Treatment

Using the iLight device, our doctor will deliver a series of gentle pulses of light to the skin around your eyelids and cheeks. These light pulses target the abnormal blood vessels and inflammation that contribute to dry eye symptoms. Most patients describe the sensation as a warm flick of light and find it very tolerable.
 

Meibomian Gland Expression

Following the light treatment, we may perform a meibomian gland expression. This involves applying gentle pressure to the eyelids to clear any blockages and help the glands release natural oils more effectively. This step enhances the benefits of IPL and helps provide longer-lasting relief.
 

Post-Treatment Care

After your session, you may notice slight redness or warmth on the treated skin, similar to a mild sunburn, which typically resolves within a few hours. You’ll be advised to avoid direct sun exposure for a few days and wear sunscreen to protect your skin. Most patients require a series of treatments, spaced a few weeks apart, to achieve optimal results.
 

Follow-Up Sessions

For the best results, iLight IPL therapy is typically performed as a series of treatments rather than a one-time procedure. Most patients benefit from 3 to 4 sessions spaced a few weeks apart, allowing the meibomian glands to gradually restore healthy function and tear stability.
 

After completing the initial series, maintenance sessions may be recommended once or twice a year to preserve long-term relief and keep dry eye symptoms under control. Your doctor will create a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and response to therapy to ensure you receive the maximum benefit from IPL.
 

Schedule Your iLight IPL Consultation Today

iLight IPL therapy goes beyond temporary symptom relief by addressing the root causes of evaporative dry eye. With its ability to reduce inflammation, improve oil gland function, and restore tear film balance, this treatment offers patients a path toward lasting comfort and healthier eyes.
 

Schedule your dry eye evaluation with Monroe Vision Associates and discover how iLight IPL therapy can make a difference for your eye health. Visit our office in Monroe Township, New Jersey, or call (609) 604-6400 to book an appointment today.