IPL Therapy for Dry Eye Relief in White Rock, BC
Dry eye disease is more than just an occasional irritation. It’s a chronic condition that can interfere with your daily comfort, focus, and overall quality of life. In a coastal community like White Rock, where wind, sun, and salt air are everyday realities, dry eye symptoms can be even more pronounced.
At White Rock Optometry, we’re proud to offer IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy, a clinically proven treatment that targets the root causes of dry eye rather than just relieving surface symptoms. If artificial tears and warm compresses haven’t been enough, IPL may be the long-term solution you’ve been looking for.
What Is IPL Therapy?
IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light, a non-invasive, light-based therapy originally developed in dermatology to treat skin conditions like rosacea. It has since been adapted for eye care, specifically for patients with chronic dry eye and MGD.
The gentle pulses of light target inflammation around the eyelids, restore normal oil flow from the meibomian glands, and support a healthier tear film. IPL helps reduce the need for daily drops by treating the condition at its source.
Why Do You Have Dry Eyes?
Dry eye is often caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), when the oil glands in your eyelids become blocked or inflamed, preventing the healthy tear film your eyes need to stay comfortable and clear. Contributing factors include:
- Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)
- Inflammation along the eyelids
- Ocular rosacea
- Hormonal changes (especially around menopause)
- Digital eye strain from screens
- Environmental exposure to wind, sun, and salt air, all common in White Rock
Identifying the cause of your dry eye is the first step toward lasting relief.
Common Dry Eye Symptoms Treated with IPL
If you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, IPL therapy may help:
- Burning or stinging eyes
- Grittiness or sandy feeling
- Excessive tearing or watery eyes
- Red or irritated eyelids
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Eye fatigue, especially at the end of the day
- Contact lens discomfort or intolerance
These signs often point to underlying gland dysfunction or inflammation that IPL is designed to treat.
What to Expect During IPL Treatment
Every IPL journey at White Rock Optometry begins with a thorough dry eye evaluation by your optometrist to determine if you're a good candidate. Here's what the process typically looks like:
- Comprehensive dry eye exam, including symptom assessment and lifestyle review
- Advanced imaging of your meibomian glands
- Personalized treatment protocol based on your symptoms and findings
- A series of IPL sessions, usually spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart
- A long-term maintenance plan tailored to your needs
Some patients begin to notice improvement after the first session, while others benefit most after completing the full course.
Is IPL Safe for Everyone?
IPL is safe for most patients when performed by trained professionals using FDA and Health Canada approved devices. However, it may not be suitable for individuals with:
- Certain skin conditions or recent sunburns
- Photosensitive conditions or medications
- Active eye infections
- Pregnancy (precautionary)
Our optometrists will assess your medical history and skin type before proceeding with treatment to ensure IPL is appropriate and safe for you.