Optilight by Lumenis

Mechanism of Action

Destroys abnormal blood vessels (works well for Rosacea, Telangiectasia, and other inflammatory skin diseases that may be associated with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (main cause of Dry Eye Disease).

Reduces debris and risk of gland obstruction, liquefies meibum aiding in the expression of glands, and improves overall gland function. This reduces the symptoms of dry eye such as chronic irritation, redness, and pain.

Decreases pro- inflammatory mediators, and Up-regulates anti-inflammatory agents. It decreases demodex and the bacterial load.

Activates fibroblasts and increases production of collagen and elastin.

How It Works

Emits intense short wavelengths of light that targets chromophores that includes melanin, hemoglobin, and water.

Traditionally, this was used to help the reduction of sun spots, freckles, and color imperfections such as Rosacea of the skin. On April of 2021 the FDA has approved the IPL procedure for management of Evaporative Dry Eye Disease. Lumenis (Optilight device) is the only company / device that received the FDA approval.

Brief, powerful bursts of light at specific wavelengths, specific pulse rates and intervals can cause changes in blood vessels and sun/age spots near the surface of the skin. By raising the skin temperature, problematic flora on the skin and eyes can be eliminated. This has a beneficial effect on dry eyes as well as the tone of your skin. The light emitted from the device generates heat that coagulates cells and leads to thrombosis of the blood vessels and reduces melanin accumulation. This minimizes inflammation, redness, and pigments spots which results in improvement of the skin appearance.

IPL Skin Treatments are not intended to be a substitute for surgical facelift, skin resurfacing, or procedures that treat deep wrinkles and sagging skin. It is intended for patients desiring evenness of color in their complexions, or those showing signs of sun damage and photo-aging and / or improvement in their dry eye condition.

Treatment Process

4 treatments separated by 3-4 weeks. Wear something comfortable for the treatment day. Touch up sessions is recommended every 6-12 months.

Pre-Treatment

You should NOT do the treatment if:

  • If you have a darker complexion (skin type VI), that never burns and tans easily.

  • If you had eye or eyelid surgery within 6 months prior the first IPL session.

  • If you use photosensitive medications (such as Isotretinoin and Doxycycline) and/or herbs that may cause sensitivity within 1 week.

  • If you use Accutane during the past 6 months.

  • If you use anti-coagulants (blood thinners).

  • If you have active infections, neuro-paralysis, active cold sore, skin cancer or pre-cancerous lesions is present in the area of the planned treatment. History of cold sores or rashes in the perioral area, including: Herpes simplex 1 & 2, Systemic Lupus erythematosus and porphyria.

  • If you have been exposed to sun or artificial tanning during 3-4 weeks prior to treatment.

  • If you had recent radiation therapy to the head or neck or planned radiation therapy; recent treatment with chemotherapeutic agent or planned chemotherapy; History of migraines, seizures, or epilepsy.

    • Most common skin reactions include immediate discomfort, edema and/or erythema (redness). These should resolve within 24-48 hours after treatment.

    • Other possible side effects include change of pigmentation, scarring, excessive edema, fragile skin, bruising, burns, pruritus (itchy) and xerosis (dryness).

    • In rare cases, OptiLight can reactivate a Herpes outbreak. Prophylactic antiviral therapy may be prescribed at your doctor’s discretion.

Post-Treatment Instructions

  • At the end of the treatment, sunblock protection (30-50 SPF) will be applied to the treated area.

  • Avoid sun exposure or tanning, especially during the first one week after treatment.

  • Apply sunblock protection (30-50 SPF) on the treated area, daily for up to 1 month after the treatment session.

  • On the night following treatment, you should generally avoid hot water, cleanse your skin gently with lukewarm water, and hydrate the treated area with a suitable moisturizer, Aloe Vera gel, or any other anti-burn cream or gel.

  • It is important to avoid mechanical damage to the treated area and it should not be rubbed, scratched or picked.

  • Baths are not advised for the first 24 hours after treatment. Showers are recommended.

  • Mild swelling is expected and can last 1-3 days following treatment. Cold compresses or aloe vera may be used to ease temporary discomfort and swelling.

  • Mild cleansers should be used on the skin for the next 3-5 days.

  • You should be able to use makeup immediately after treatment. However, if there is any adverse reaction to the skin, makeup should be avoided until the adverse reaction is completely resolved. If there is a break or blister on skin avoid make-up.

  • If the skin breaks or a blister develops:

    • gently wash

    • use an antibiotic ointment (bacitracin or polysporin). Available over the counter.

    • notify our office

  • Exercise should be avoided for 24 hours

  • Botox and fillers should be avoided for 6 weeks after treatment.

  • Schedule your next treatment

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call the office at (818) 841-1212.