Is IPL or RF Better for Dry Eyes?

Dry eye disease is a chronic condition that can interfere with daily activities like reading, driving, and using digital devices. If over-the-counter eye drops or home remedies are no longer providing relief, advanced in-office treatments may be the next step. Two of the most effective options available today are IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and RF (Radiofrequency) therapy. Understanding how these treatments work and which one may be right for you is an important part of achieving long-term dry eye relief.

Understanding Dry Eye Disease

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough healthy tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. One of the most common causes is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).

The meibomian glands, located inside the eyelids, produce oils that keep tears from evaporating too fast. When these glands become clogged or inflamed, the tear film becomes unstable, leading to symptoms such as:

• Burning or stinging sensations

• Gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes

• Fluctuating or blurry vision

• Redness or irritation

• Watery eyes

Modern treatments like IPL and RF are designed to target MGD and inflammation at the source rather than just masking symptoms.

What Is Lumecca I IPL for Dry Eyes?

Lumecca I IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy uses controlled pulses of light applied to the skin around the eyes. While IPL is widely known in dermatology, it has proven highly effective in treating dry eye related to inflammation and MGD.

How IPL Helps Dry Eyes

• Reduces inflammation around the eyelids

• Targets abnormal blood vessels that contribute to chronic dryness

• Helps liquefy thickened oils in the meibomian glands

• Improves overall tear film quality

IPL is especially beneficial for patients whose dry eye is associated with inflammation, redness, or rosacea-related MGD.

What Is Forma I RF for Dry Eyes?

Forma I RF (Radiofrequency) therapy uses gentle heat delivered through radiofrequency energy to the eyelids. This heat penetrates deeper into the tissue to warm and stimulate the meibomian glands.

How RF Helps Dry Eyes

• Melts hardened oils trapped in the glands

• Improves oil flow and gland function

• Enhances circulation to support healing

• Provides a relaxing, comfortable treatment experience

RF is often ideal for patients with blocked or sluggish meibomian glands and more advanced gland dysfunction.

IPL vs. RF: Which Is Better?

There is no single “better” option for everyone. The best treatment depends on:

• The severity of your dry eye

• The extent of meibomian gland dysfunction

• The level of inflammation present

• Your symptoms and lifestyle needs

In many cases, combining IPL and RF provides the most effective relief. IPL addresses inflammation and abnormal blood vessels, while RF focuses on restoring healthy oil flow from the glands. Together, they offer a more comprehensive approach to treating dry eye at its source. At Mission Family Optometry, we carefully evaluate each patient to determine whether IPL, RF, or a combination of both treatments will provide the best results.

Take the Next Step Toward Dry Eye Relief

Both Lumecca I IPL and Forma I RF are powerful tools that target the root causes of dry eye, especially Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. With a personalized approach, many patients experience meaningful, lasting relief.

If you’re struggling with dry eye symptoms and want to explore IPL and RF treatment options, schedule a dry eye evaluation at Mission Family Optometry today. Visit our office in Granada Hills, California, or call (818) 360-7522 to book an appointment.