Low-Level Light Therapy for Dry Eye Syndrome

This trial explores how low-level light therapy (LLLT) affects eyelid temperature in individuals with dry eye syndrome and varying skin tones. Participants will undergo three short LLLT sessions over one to two weeks. The trial seeks individuals with symptoms of meibomian gland disease, a condition affecting the oil glands in the eyelids, who frequently experience dry eyes. Participants must not have recently undergone certain eye treatments or surgeries and should not have active eye infections. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could lead to new insights and treatments for dry eye syndrome.

The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you have used photosensitizing medications in the last 30 days.

Research has shown that low-level light therapy (LLLT) is generally safe and gentle on the skin. It uses red light to activate cells without causing harm or heat. Past studies have not reported major serious side effects with LLLT. It's important to note that other light treatments, such as intense pulsed light, can cause side effects like redness and swelling, but these differ from LLLT. Overall, LLLT appears to be a safe option for treating dry eye symptoms, with minimal risk of side effects.¹²³⁴⁵

Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) is unique because it offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional treatments for Dry Eye Syndrome, such as artificial tears, anti-inflammatory medications, and punctal plugs. Unlike these methods, LLLT uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular activity, potentially enhancing the eye's natural healing process without the use of drugs or surgery. Researchers are excited about LLLT because it could provide a safe and effective treatment across varying skin tones, suggesting wider applicability and accessibility for patients with diverse needs.

Studies have shown that low-level light therapy (LLLT) can alleviate dry eye symptoms. One study demonstrated that using LED-LLLT improved the stability of the tear film, enhancing eye comfort. Another study found that just three sessions of LLLT significantly reduced dry eye symptoms. This therapy improves the function of the meibomian glands, which help maintain eye moisture. Overall, research suggests that LLLT could effectively manage dry eye symptoms. Participants in this trial will receive LLLT, with treatment arms stratified by Fitzpatrick skin tone to assess its effectiveness across different skin types.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰