New £34k investment at Ripon store will offer hi-tech help for customers experiencing dry eye problems

A store in Ripon has become the first in North Yorkshire to pioneer new eyesight technology for customers after a £34,000 investment.

Specsavers Ripon is one of only 50 in the UK to receive Eyelight equipment, the latest technology designed to improve the daily lives of people experiencing dry eye symptoms.

The locally owned and run store on the Market Place is the only Specsavers in North Yorkshire now able to provide Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT) procedures, thanks to a newly-installed piece of equipment called Eyelight.

The procedures use gentle light technology to improve the function of the eyelid glands, which play an important role in keeping the eyes comfortable and hydrated.

Specsavers Ripon is one of only 50 in the UK to offer ZEST treatment, as well as utilising new Eyelight equipment. (Picture contributed)

Katherine Friis, optometrist director at Specsavers Ripon, adds: ‘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.”

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 the tears.

Eyelight uses low-level light to support healthy gland function and improve tear quality.

Together, these procedures can help address the root cause of dry eye and provide longer-lasting relief from symptoms.

Also available now at the Ripon store is ZEST, a quick, comfortable and non-invasive procedure lasting around 10 to 20 minutes which uses a natural, okra-based gel and a specialised swab to deep-clean the eyelids and lashes.