Exploring Red vs Blue Light Therapy for Dry Eye Disease, Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, and Blepharitis

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are exploring the use of photobiomodulation, or low-level light therapy LLLT, to treat dry eye disease and blepharitis, conditions involving inflammation and oil gland dysfunction of the eyelids. This study aims to compare the effects of red versus blue light wavelengths on eyelid blood flow, microbial presence, and standard eye health measures. The study is an exploratory, randomized, double-masked clinical trial conducted at Aston University. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups a red light only group, a combined red and blue light group, or a sham treatment group. Treatments involve wearing a facial mask with light-emitting diodes LEDs over the eyelids and face. The red light is applied for 30 minutes, or for the combined group, 15 minutes of red light followed by 15 minutes of blue light. The sham group receives a low-power light treatment mimicking the active therapies. Each participant will receive three treatment sessions spaced one week apart, followed by a follow-up visit one month after the final treatment. During the study, participants will attend a total of four visits for treatment and follow-up at the Aston Dry Eye Clinic. Researchers will assess changes in bacterial colonies, visual acuity, tear stability, blinking rate, eyelid inflammation, and other eye surface health markers from baseline through one month post-treatment. Various tests and examinations will monitor how the different light therapies affect eyelid blood flow, gland function, and microbial presence. This comprehensive evaluation will help understand the potential benefits and differences between red and blue light therapies for dry eye conditions.

Photobiomodulation With REd vs BluE Light (REBEL)