Dry, irritated or watery eyes are a common complaint in Mid-Canterbury, particularly during summer when wind, air-conditioning and increased screen use can worsen symptoms. For many people, dry eye is more than a minor irritation – it can affect vision, work performance, driving comfort and overall quality of life.

Ashburton Eyecare has recently introduced Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy for dry eye, becoming the first practice in Mid-Canterbury to offer this advanced treatment.

Dry eye disease is complex and often misunderstood. While artificial tears can provide temporary relief, research shows that around 86% of dry eye is caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). These tiny oil glands along the eyelids play a vital role in keeping tears stable. When they become blocked or inflamed, tears evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness, redness and fluctuating or blurred vision.

IPL is designed to treat the underlying cause of dry eye rather than just the symptoms. The gentle pulses of light help reduce inflammation around the eyelids, improve blood vessel health and warm thickened gland oils, allowing the glands to function more normally. Over time, this can result in improved comfort, clearer vision and fewer flare-ups.

IPL can benefit a wide range of patients, particularly those with evaporative dry eye, lid margin inflammation, rosacea-related eye symptoms, or recurrent styes. At Ashburton Eyecare, IPL is offered as part of a comprehensive, personalised dry eye management plan, which may also include warm compress therapy, gland expression and tailored home care.

For many patients, IPL represents a move away from simply “living with dry eyes” to having effective treatment options available locally.

Book your Dry Eye Test Today to find out if IPL is appropriate for you.