What is IPL?
IPL stands for Intense Pulse Light. It has been used in the aesthetic world for nearly two decades as a skin rejuvenation treatment known as photofacials. It was found to have a secondary benefit of improving dry eye in patients with meibomian gland dysfunction.
How is the Optilight IPL different?
We are the first office in Boston to have the first and only FDA approved IPL with Optilight technology which is clinically proven to improve dry eye in patients with meibomian gland dysfunction.
How does IPL work?
IPL is a non-invasive light-based therapy that targets inflammation and blepharitis, the root cause of dry eye and meibomian gland dysfunction. Roughly 85% of patients with dry eye have meibomian gland dysfunction.
What are the skin benefits?
IPL improves skin discoloration, including sun damage and hyperpigmentation. It also improves redness, stimulates collagen production which improves the skin’s texture making it more smooth, reduces pore size, and minimizes fine lines & wrinkles. IPL is also highly effective for patients with rosacea.
Can I use my FSA/HSA for this?
Yes, you can!
What is the cost?
The cost for four full face treatments along with gentle meibomian gland expression (if needed) post-treatment is $1600.
How many sessions will I need?
Typically four sessions spaced out by 2-4 weeks are needed. Then maintenance treatments are needed 1-2x per year.
What should I expect after having an IPL treatment?
The skin may appear red with mild swelling and have a sunburn-like sensation that usually lasts for 4-8 hours but can last up to 72 hours.
How do I know if I need IPL?
Although IPL is wonderful, not everyone is a candidate for IPL. We are happy to see you for a consultation to determine if this is right for you. Schedule that here or email with any questions!
Are there studies on IPL?
Yes, there are many. A few are linked below.
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Lanting Yang et al, Treatment of contact lens related dry eye with intense pulsed light, Contact Lens and Anterior Eye, 2022
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EE Pazo et al, Intense Pulse Light for Treating Post-LASIK Refractory Dry Eye, Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg, 2020
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Dell S, Intense Pulsed Light for evaporative dry eye disease. Clinical Ophthalmology 2017
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Vegunta S, Patel D, Shen JF. Combination Therapy of Intense Pulsed Light Therapy and Meibomian Gland Expression (IPL/MGX) Can Improve Dry Eye Symptoms and Meibomian Gland Function in Patients with Refractory Dry Eye: A Retropsective Analysis. Cornea 2016
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Gupta PK, Vora GK, Matossian C, Kim M, Stinnett S. Outcomes of intense pulsed light therapy for treatment of evaporative dry eye disease. Can J Ophthalmology 2016
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Toyos R., McGill W., Briscoe D., Intense pulsed light treatment for dry eye disease due to meibomian gland dysfunction; A 3-year retrospective study, Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 2015