During an IPL session, a xenon flash lamp produces light that can be pulsed and filtered to specific wavelengths. When the pulses of light emitted by this device are absorbed by the melanin (pigment) and red blood cells in the skin, heat is generated. When used around the eyes, this heat melts the secretions of glands within the eyelids allowing better gland expression. The thermal effect from the light also destroys abnormal blood vessels that can be prominent in conditions like ocular rosacea. The light also decreases the level of pro-inflammatory mediators that cause inflammation in the eyes. Finally, the light energy helps control the overgrowth of bacteria and Demodex on the eyelid margins. Typically, four sessions are scheduled two to four weeks apart.