Treatments › IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) for dry eye

Pulses of light applied near the lower lids to calm inflammation and support oil-gland function.

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) uses controlled pulses of light applied to the skin around the lower eyelids and upper cheeks. It was originally a dermatology tool and was later adapted for dry eye once clinicians noticed it seemed to help meibomian gland function and reduce lid inflammation.

A course typically involves several sessions spaced a few weeks apart, often paired with a manual expression of the meibomian glands straight after each pulse. Most people describe it as a warm flick against the skin rather than painful.

It tends to suit people whose dry eye is linked to blocked or inflamed oil glands (evaporative dry eye) rather than a straightforward lack of tear volume. A clinician will assess suitability first (skin tone, pigmentation and any light sensitivity all factor in) and results vary between patients.

Best for

Evaporative dry eye linked to inflamed or underperforming oil glands

Typical cost

Often $150–$350 per session, with an initial course of 3–4 sessions. Costs vary by clinic and region.

Costs are indicative: confirm with the clinic.

Clinics offering IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

Dry Eye Solution Chatswood

Chatswood

Assessment-led dry eye clinic on Sydney’s Lower North Shore with medical-grade IPL under the Toyos Protocols.

Dry Eye Solution Double Bay

Double Bay

Eastern Suburbs dry eye clinic offering IPL and gland expression, open Saturdays.

Dry Eye Solution Kotara

Kotara

Newcastle-region dry eye clinic at Westfield Kotara, open Saturdays, with IPL and lid care.

Dry Eye Solution Erina

Erina

Central Coast dry eye clinic offering assessment-led IPL and meibomian gland expression.

Dry Eye Solution Parramatta

Parramatta

Western Sydney dry eye clinic offering assessment-led IPL and meibomian gland expression.

Dry Eye Solution Miranda

Miranda

Sutherland Shire dry eye clinic with medical-grade IPL and gland expression.

Dry Eye Solution Burwood

Burwood

Inner West dry eye clinic offering IPL under the Toyos Protocols and blepharitis lid care.

Dry Eye Solution Melbourne (Middle Park)

Middle Park

Melbourne dry eye clinic in Middle Park offering IPL, gland expression and lid care.

Frequently asked questions

Is IPL painful?

Most people describe it as a brief warm sensation rather than pain. Clinics use protective eyewear throughout the session.

How many sessions will I need?

An initial course is commonly 3–4 sessions a few weeks apart, with some clinics recommending occasional top-ups. Your clinician will tailor this to your assessment.

Who isn't a good candidate for IPL?

People with very dark or recently tanned skin, certain skin conditions, or light sensitivity may not be suitable. A clinic will screen for this before booking you in.

Common questions

Still working out whether this is the right step? These plain-English guides help.

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This page is general information, not medical advice. See a qualified clinician to find out what is right for you.