ZEST – Zocular Eyelid System

Treatment for Dry Eye Disease

At Primary Eye Care in Arlington, we offer an exciting in-office treatment called ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment) to treat dry eye symptoms due to blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, or Demodex mites. Learn more about these underlying conditions and how ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment) can help you find relief!  

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Blepharitis 

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the oil glands in the eyelids. As a result of the inflammation, the eyelids can become red, itchy, irritated, or crusted with dandruff-like scales.  

Common causes include bacterial infection, a problem with the oil glands in the eyelids, or a combination of both. Your risk also increases if you have certain skin conditions such as acne and rosacea, allergic reactions to cosmetics or medications, or an overgrowth of Demodex mites.   

The most common symptoms of blepharitis include:  

  • Red, swollen eyelids  
  • Itchy or burning eyelids  
  • Flaky or crusty eyelashes  
  • Excessive tearing  
  • Eyelids that are stuck together after sleep  
  • Light sensitivity  
  • Blurred vision  
  • A feeling of grit or a foreign body in the eye  
  • Eyelash loss  

Blepharitis can also cause dry eye symptoms such as dryness, burning, or even watery eyes. The severity and frequency of symptoms will vary depending on the underlying cause.  

Meibomian gland dysfunction 

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a common condition where the meibomian glands in the eyelids become blocked or malfunction. Meibomian glands are located inside the eyelids and secrete an oily substance called meibum which helps keep the eye surface lubricated.  

Symptoms of MGD include:  

  • Dry or irritated eyes  
  • Red, swollen eyelids  
  • A feeling of grit or a foreign body in the eye  
  • Blurred vision  
  • Itchy or burning eyes  
  • Light sensitivity  
  • Excessive tearing  
  • Sticky or gummy eyelids  
  • Yellowish or white bumps on the eyelids (called meibomian cysts)  

MGD is one of the leading causes of dry eye disease because it interferes with the proper function of the meibomian glands. When these glands become blocked or inflamed, they cannot release enough of this lubricant, resulting in dryness on the surface of the eye. It can also increase the risk of eye infections. 

Demodex 

Demodex mites are microscopic eight-legged organisms that live on the surface of your skin, including your eyelids. They’re usually harmless, but when their numbers become too high, they can cause problems like a condition called Demodex blepharitis.  

Demodex blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids caused by an overpopulation of Demodex mites. The mites feed on the oils produced by the meibomian glands and can lead to inflammation and blockage of the glands, resulting in MGD, one of the common causes of dry eye disease.  

Symptoms of Demodex blepharitis include:  

  • Itchy or burning eyes  
  • Red, swollen eyelids  
  • A feeling of grit or a foreign body in the eye  
  • Blurred vision  
  • Light sensitivity  
  • Sticky or gummy eyelids  
  • Eyelash loss  

Demodex blepharitis is often misdiagnosed as other forms of blepharitis, which is why a proper diagnosis is key to determining what’s causing dry eye symptoms. Treatment for Demodex blepharitis typically includes lid hygiene. 

What is ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment)?   

ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment) is a deep cleaning procedure for the eyes that removes impurities and debris from the eyelids and lashes.   

  • During the treatment, we will apply a gel to the eyelid margin and lashes with a cotton swab, using circular motions to create a lather.   
  • This deep cleansing step helps to lift and clear away oils, debris, and residue from the eyelid margin.   
  • The gel used in ZEST is formulated with a refined extract of okra, which is a powerful yet gentle ingredient that can help to soothe inflammation.   
  • After the gel has been applied, it is rinsed off with saline solution.  

What are the benefits of ZEST?   

One treatment of ZEST can reduce symptoms of dry eye, blepharitis, and Demodex. Okra is a vegetable known to be gentle, effective, and powerful in clearing the eye area and improving eyelid hygiene. ZEST dry eye treatment incorporates okra to help cleanse the eyes and alleviate dry eye symptoms. Irritants like dirt, bacteria, and oils can cause itching, burning, and irritated eyes, and ZEST can effectively remove these irritants.   

If you suffer from dry eye due to blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, or Demodex, ZEST may be an effective solution for you. The treatment is quick, painless, and can provide noticeable improvement after just one treatment. To learn more about ZEST and whether it is right for you, schedule an evaluation for dry eye disease at our office.