Activa Therapy (Intense Pulsed Light for Dry Eye)

Activa therapy uses intense pulsed light (IPL) to treat dry eye disease caused by meibomian gland dysfunction. This in-office treatment addresses the underlying inflammation that contributes to evaporative dry eye, providing longer-lasting relief than drops alone.

Understanding Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

The meibomian glands in your eyelids produce the oil layer of your tear film. This oil prevents tears from evaporating too quickly. When these glands become blocked or inflamed, the oil quality deteriorates, leading to:

• Rapid tear evaporation

• Burning, stinging, or gritty sensations

• Redness and irritation

• Fluctuating vision

• Discomfort that worsens throughout the day

Abnormal blood vessels around the eyelids release inflammatory substances that worsen meibomian gland dysfunction, creating a cycle of inflammation and symptoms.

How IPL Therapy Works

Intense pulsed light delivers controlled pulses of broad-spectrum light to the skin around the eyes:

• The light energy targets abnormal blood vessels, reducing inflammation

• Heat helps liquefy thickened oil secretions in the glands

• The treatment may help reduce bacterial load and Demodex mites

• Gland function can improve over a series of treatments

Research published in peer-reviewed journals has demonstrated improvement in dry eye symptoms and signs following IPL treatment, particularly in patients with meibomian gland dysfunction and visible blood vessels around the eyelid margins.

The Treatment Experience

A typical IPL treatment course involves:

• 3-4 sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart

• Each session takes approximately 15-20 minutes

• Protective eye shields are placed over your eyes

• Light pulses are applied to the skin below the lower eyelids and sometimes the upper face

• Treatment is followed by gentle expression of the meibomian glands

• Most patients describe the sensation as a warm snap against the skin

Who May Benefit

IPL therapy may be suitable for patients with:

• Evaporative dry eye from meibomian gland dysfunction

• Ocular rosacea with visible blood vessels around the eyes

• Chronic blepharitis not adequately controlled with lid hygiene

• Symptoms that have not responded sufficiently to artificial tears and warm compresses

IPL works better for lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick types I-IV). Patients with darker skin may not be suitable candidates due to increased risk of pigmentation changes.

What Results Can Be Expected

Many patients report meaningful improvement in dry eye symptoms:

• Reduced burning and irritation

• Less redness

• Improved tear film stability

• Longer intervals between needing artificial tears

Effects typically become noticeable after 2-3 treatments. Results may last 6-12 months, after which maintenance treatments may be beneficial.

Important considerations:

• Response varies between individuals

• IPL does not cure underlying conditions-ongoing management is usually needed

• Best results are achieved in combination with regular lid hygiene

Potential Risks

IPL is generally well-tolerated when performed correctly:

• Mild redness immediately after treatment, usually resolving within hours

• Temporary skin sensitivity

• Pigmentation changes (more common in darker skin tones)

• Rare: superficial burns if settings are inappropriate

• Eye injury is prevented by protective shields worn during treatment

Medical Disclaimer: This information provides general guidance about IPL therapy for dry eye and should not replace professional medical advice. IPL is one component of dry eye management and works best as part of a comprehensive treatment approach. Suitability depends on skin type and underlying conditions. Please consult with our eye care professionals for assessment and recommendations specific to your situation.