A Ripon optician has invested £34,000 in new technology to provide specialist procedures for people suffering from dry eye.
Specsavers on Market Place has become the only Specsavers store in North Yorkshire to offer Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT) procedures.
The locally owned and run store is one of just 50 Specsavers branches across the UK to have the technology.
The investment includes new Eyelight equipment, which uses light technology designed to improve the function of glands in the eyelids responsible for keeping eyes comfortable and hydrated.
IPL uses pulses of light to gently warm the area around the glands, helping to clear blockages and restore the natural flow of oils into tears.
Low Level Light Therapy is also used to support healthy gland function and improve tear quality, with the procedures aimed at addressing the underlying causes of dry eye.
The Ripon store can also provide ZEST, a non-invasive procedure lasting around 10 to 20 minutes.
It uses an okra-based gel and specialised swab to deep-clean the eyelids and lashes, removing biofilm, debris and mites which can block oil glands.
Dry eye can cause symptoms including sore, irritated or itchy eyes, redness, watery eyes and blurred vision.
Factors including increased screen time, hormones, air conditioning, heating and ageing can contribute to the condition.
Katherine Friis, Optometrist Director at Specsavers Ripon, said:
“Many people assume dry eyes are simply something they must live with, but untreated dry eye can significantly impact quality of life, comfort and even vision. Dry eye disease can worsen over time if the underlying cause is not properly addressed.
“If you’re experiencing symptoms of dry eye, it’s important to have them assessed by an optometrist. They can assess the health of the eye and eyelids, identify the root cause of the dry eye problem and recommend the most appropriate procedure plan.
“In some cases, dry eyes can also overlap with other eye conditions, so a professional assessment helps ensure customers receive the correct care and advice.”
Speaking about the investment, Katherine added:
“We’re delighted to be able to provide these new procedures, which will greatly benefit people across the district.
“With Eyelight, customers who have dry, itchy and irritated eyes from contact lenses, or those who rely solely on daily drops to comfort their eyes, can benefit from targeted procedure designed to provide longer-lasting relief.”
Anyone experiencing dry, gritty, sore or watery eyes can contact Specsavers Ripon on 01765 694 777 or visit the store on Market Place for more information.
Harrogate pupils achieve best top-grade GCSE results in four years
Harrogate High head 'enormously proud' of school's GCSE results
Three new independent businesses join Halls of Ripon
GCSE glory for Ripon's England football star
St Aidan's celebrates record-breaking GCSE results
GALLERY: Thousands attend Harrogate's first Symphonic Ibiza event
Rossett School celebrates strong GCSE and BTEC results
Harrogate dental practice celebrates 25th anniversary
Harrogate Grammar celebrates 'exceptional' GCSE results
Next phase of £15 million Yorkshire Water works begins in Pannal
Appeal after man suffers suspected broken nose in Ripon assault
Harrogate homeless charity welcomes £547,000 funding boost
Pavilions of Harrogate celebrates 30th anniversary
Harrogate man to tackle London Marathon for hospice that cared for grandad
EasyJet announces it will stop flying from Leeds Bradford Airport
Free end of summer party to be held in Valley Gardens
Sports cars to descend on Newby Hall for autumn show
New daytime choirs to launch in Harrogate and Knaresborough
Magnet to open new Harrogate showroom next week
Missing Harrogate dog Ozzy found after 13 days
