ZEST | Zocular® Eyelid System Treatment FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a ZEST procedure?
Does the procedure hurt or sting?
Will my eyelids be red or sensitive after deep eyelid cleaning?
Do I need to stop wearing eye makeup prior to a ZEST procedure?
How does ZEST remove eyelid biofilm, bacteria and scabs?
How long does a ZEST appointment take?
Some patients notice their eyes feel cleaner and more comfortable within a few days of treatment, while others experience gradual improvement over the following weeks. The speed of improvement depends on the severity of your condition and whether additional treatments are recommended as part of your personalised dry eye management plan.
No. Most patients find ZEST® comfortable and well tolerated. You may feel gentle pressure as your eyelids are cleaned, but the treatment is not designed to be painful. If your eyelids are particularly inflamed or sensitive, you may notice mild discomfort during the cleaning process, but this is usually temporary.
ZEST® uses a natural okra-based cleansing gel together with gentle mechanical cleaning to loosen and remove the build-up of biofilm, bacteria, oils, debris, crusting, and dead skin from the eyelid margins and around the eyelashes. By thoroughly cleaning the eyelids, it helps create a healthier environment for the meibomian glands and supports better tear film function.
Some patients experience mild redness or slight sensitivity immediately after treatment, particularly if there was significant inflammation beforehand. These effects are usually temporary and settle within a few hours. Most people are able to return to their normal daily activities straight away.
A ZEST® treatment appointment typically takes 20–30 minutes. If it is performed as part of a comprehensive dry eye assessment or combined with other in-clinic treatments, your overall appointment may be longer.
How is ZEST different from scrubbing eyelashes with baby shampoo at home?
Unlike baby shampoo, ZEST® is specifically designed for the delicate eyelid margins. Its okra-based gel is formulated to lift away biofilm, bacteria, oils, and debris while being gentle on the ocular surface. Baby shampoo is not designed to remove eyelid biofilm effectively and may disrupt the natural tear film or cause irritation in some people. ZEST® also provides a much more thorough in-clinic clean than can typically be achieved at home.
How quickly does ZEST provide relief from blepharitis & dry eye symptoms?
Yes. We recommend arriving without eye makeup, including mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow, so the eyelid margins can be cleaned thoroughly and the treatment can be performed effectively. If you arrive wearing makeup, you may be asked to remove it before the procedure. It is also helpful to avoid applying heavy eyelid creams immediately before your appointment
Is ZEST an effective treatment for eliminating Demodex eyelash mites?
Yes. ZEST® can help remove Demodex mites, their waste products, and the cylindrical dandruff (collarettes) they leave around the eyelashes. This helps reduce the eyelid inflammation associated with Demodex blepharitis. Depending on the severity of the infestation, additional treatments or an ongoing eyelid hygiene routine may be recommended to achieve the best long-term results.
How often should ZEST be repeated for chronic blepharitis?