Light Therapy for Dry Eye and Blepharitis

Tired of itchy, burning, or watery eyes?

If your eyes often feel irritated, gritty, or overly sensitive to light — you’re not alone. These symptoms could point to dry eye syndrome, blepharitis, or both. Fortunately, they share a common cause — and a new, non-invasive treatment option.

At Spadina Optometry, we now offer low-level light therapy (LLLT) to help manage these chronic conditions safely and effectively. Let’s break down what’s happening with your eyes — and how light therapy can help.

---

What’s the difference between dry eye and blepharitis?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears — or when tears evaporate too quickly. This leads to burning, stinging, blurred vision, and, paradoxically, watery eyes (a reflex response to irritation).

Blepharitis affects the eyelids, especially near the base of your eyelashes. It’s typically caused by clogged oil glands (meibomian glands), and can result in redness, flaking, itching, and crusting around the lashes.

A common root cause: Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

Both dry eye and blepharitis are often linked to MGD, where the oil glands in your eyelids become blocked or inflamed. This prevents the normal oil layer from forming on your tears — leading to faster evaporation and irritation.

---

How does low-level light therapy (LLLT) work?

LLLT uses red or blue LED light delivered through a gentle mask that sits over closed eyes. It’s:

• Non-invasive and painless
• 15 minutes per session
• Often described as feeling like "sitting in the sun with your eyes closed"

There are two modes:

• 🔴 Red Light: Increases circulation, stimulates natural oil production, and supports gland function
• 🔵 Blue Light: Antimicrobial, targets bacteria (including Demodex) on the eyelid margins

Depending on your symptoms, we may combine light therapy with BlephEx lid cleaning or meibomian gland expression for best results.

---

What are the benefits?

Many patients report significant symptom relief after just a few sessions. Benefits may include:

• Better tear quality and comfort
• Reduced inflammation and redness
• Improved meibomian gland function
• Less stinging, dryness, and irritation

And because LLLT is contact-free, there's no downtime and minimal risk of side effects.

---

Are there other options?

Yes. We take a tailored approach to dry eye and blepharitis management. Your treatment plan might also include:

• Artificial tears or prescription drops
• Warm compresses or lid scrubs
• Omega-3 supplements or dietary adjustments
• In-office lid hygiene or gland expression

Not every treatment works for everyone — but together, we can find the best fit for your symptoms and lifestyle.

---

Ready to feel better?

If you’ve been living with dry, irritated eyes, relief is possible. Book a dry eye consultation and learn whether light therapy is right for you.

Book an Appointment →