Zest Dry Eye Treatment
Zest is an innovative new treatment designed to help reduce the symptoms of discomfort caused by dry eyes.
Zest FAQ’s
ZEST® (Zocular Eyelid System Technology) is a professional eyelid cleansing procedure developed from natural okra botanicals, making it a safe, gentle, and non-invasive solution for dry eye and eyelid inflammation. Using a specialised plant-based gel and cleansing applicators, the procedure helps remove debris, dead skin, excess oils, biofilm, and unwanted mites from the eyelid margins. Patients often notice substantial improvements in comfort within minutes of procedure.
What is Zest?
ZEST® is a gentle exfoliation process designed to restore the natural health and balance of the eyelids. By carefully cleaning the eyelid margins, it removes debris and biofilm that may block the Meibomian glands’ openings. This allows the glands to release the protective oils needed to maintain a stable tear film and prevent tears from evaporating too quickly.
The procedure uses a plant-based, okra-derived gel applied with specialised Zocuswab® applicators that bind and lift unwanted material from the eyelids and eyelashes. This helps restore a cleaner, healthier eyelid surface while supporting long-term tear film and gland function.
How Zest Works
What happens during the procedure?
Your eyelids and eyelashes play an essential role in maintaining healthy, comfortable vision. Over time, bacteria, oils, skin cells, and debris can build up along the eyelid margins, contributing to conditions such as:
Blepharitis
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
Dry, sore, gritty eyes
Fluctuating vision
Recurring styes or chalazia
Contact lens discomfort
Red, irritated, or flaky eyelids
Is Zest right for me?
How does Zest help?
Think of ZEST® like visiting a dental hygienist. Just as your teeth require regular cleaning to prevent plaque buildup, your eyelids also need routine care to keep the tiny oil glands functioning properly. Over time, debris, bacteria, and buildup can accumulate around these glands, and if left untreated, they can become blocked, infected, stop working effectively, and can lead to eyelash loss.
When this happens, the eyes lose their natural balance, known as homeostasis. This imbalance can occur for many reasons, including menopause, excessive screen time, reduced blinking, air conditioning, ageing, contact lens wear, or even makeup and skincare products entering the glands.
As the balance shifts, the eyes release inflammatory chemical messengers called cytokines. These cytokines trigger inflammation within the eyelids, causing the Meibomian glands to swell or become blocked. Once blocked, the glands can no longer release the protective oils needed to stop tears from evaporating too quickly.
How much does Zest cost?
Zest and Menopause: MTick Certified
ZEST® is performed in-practice by a clinician and typically takes around 20 minutes. During the procedure:
A gentle okra-based ZEST® gel is applied to the closed eyelids.
Specialised applicators are used to carefully cleanse the eyelid margins.
Debris, biofilm, and unwanted mites are removed from the lashes and glands.
The eyelids are then cleansed with sterile saline.
The procedure is designed to be comfortable, soothing, and non-invasive, with many patients experiencing relief for up to six months following procedure.
The treatment costs £160 for both eyes.
What happens after the treatment?
Who is Zest not suitable for?
After a ZEST® procedure, patients’ eyes often feel rejuvenated, and many notice improvements in comfort and visual clarity. Contact lens wearers may also find their lenses more comfortable for extended periods.
To preserve the benefits of procedure, follow-up ZEST® appointments are generally recommended at least twice a year, combined with a consistent at-home eyelid care routine between visits. Just as regular dental hygiene appointments support oral health, professional eyelid cleaning can help maintain the long-term health of the eyelid margins and tear film.
To help maintain relief between appointments, a simple three-step home care routine is often recommended:
Heat – Use an antibacterial hot eye compress to help loosen oils and support healthy gland function.
Cleanse – Clean the eyelids with a biodegradable eyelid wipe to remove debris and buildup.
Revive – Apply lubricating eye drops to keep the eyes hydrated, refreshed, and comfortable.
ZEST® is officially certified with MTick as a menopause-friendly procedure, recognising its relevance for individuals experiencing eyelid inflammation, dryness, and Meibomian gland changes commonly associated with hormonal fluctuations.
During perimenopause and menopause, hormonal changes can affect the oil glands along the eyelids, often leading to dryness, irritation, and reduced tear film stability. ZEST® provides a professional eyelid cleanse that helps support eyelid margin health during these changes. This certification reflects ZEST®’s alignment with MTick standards for menopause awareness, understanding, and support within healthcare.
ZEST® is safe for most people, but it may not be right for you if you have:
An active eye infection, such as conjunctivitis
Had recent eye surgery or an eye injury
Cuts, sores or broken skin around your eyes
A known allergy to any of the gel’s ingredients
If you have eyelash extensions, the treatment may loosen them, so please tell us beforehand. If you’re unsure, we will check your eyes and talk it through with you before going ahead.