ZEST Treatment in Greater Montreal: Clinical eyelid cleaning for blepharitis and Demodex

At Experience Care, the optometrist first examines your eyelids and lash line. They will then explain whether ZEST may be an option for you, based on the presence of crusting, Demodex, or stubborn biofilm.
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How ZEST clears biofilm and Demodex

Three combined actions: a plant-based gel that dissolves biofilm, gentle mechanical exfoliation, and targeted action against Demodex mites.

01

Main mechanism

The Zocular gel utilizes sticky extracts from okra (gumbo). This plant-based formula adheres to debris along the eyelid margin and detaches the bacterial biofilm that home wipes cannot remove.

02

Clinical precision

The nurse uses a single-use applicator loaded with gel along the margin of each eyelid. The movement is gentle, controlled, and repeated until the crusts and biofilm loosen.

03

Effet ciblé

The Zocular gel destabilizes the oily environment where Demodex mites live at the base of the eyelashes. Combined with exfoliation, it helps reduce the mite load on the eyelid margin.

Which eyelid conditions can ZEST help with?

If any of the following situations sound familiar and wipes are no longer working for you, ZEST may be an option to discuss with your optometrist.
Isotretinoin-related dry eye
Sjögren's syndrome
Meibomian Glands (MGD)
Chalazion or stye

When is ZEST recommended for blepharitis or Demodex?

When the edge of the eyelid is congested—such as with chronic blepharitis, Demodex mites, or in preparation for IPL or i Lux treatments. Your optometrist will determine if this is right for you.

Morning crusts and small flakes at the base of the lashes that home wipes can no longer remove.

Itching and persistent burning of the eyelids, even with regular cleaning.

Demodex mites at the base of the lashes— common after age 50 or in patients with rosacea.

Preparation before Opti Light IPL or i Lux: a clean eyelid margin can improve response to the next treatment.

Contact lens wearers who have deposits on the eyelid margin that soil lenses and reduce comfort.

When is ZEST not an option?

Certain conditions can make ZEST unsuitable, sometimes only temporarily. The optometrist will always check for these before each session.

Known allergy to okra or similar plants that compose the Zocular gel.

Open wound, stye, active herpes, or weeping skin at the lash line.

Active conjunctivitisred eye, yellowish discharge, or swollen eyelid.

Eyelid surgery, lesion removal, or laser surgery (LASIK, PRK) performed within the last 4 to 6 weeks.

Ongoing ulcer or corneal abrasion.

What happens during a ZEST session at the clinic?

Three clearly defined phases for a predictable experience. No preparation is needed at home, and there is no downtime after the session.

01

Before the session

  • Quick examination of the eyelid margins and the base of the eyelashes
  • Confirmation that ZEST is an option for you
  • On-site makeup removal
  • An anesthetic drop may be offered if the area is sensitive
02

During the session

  • Application of Zocular okra gel to the eyelid margin by the nurse
  • Gentle exfoliation with a single-use applicator
  • Action on biofilm, crusts, and Demodex mites
  • No pain, gentle massage sensation
03

After the session

  • Thorough eyelid rinse at the clinic
  • Immediate return to activities
  • Contact lenses: wait 4 hours
  • Eye makeup: wait 24 hours
THE CARE EXPERIENCE
Beyond treatments, we offer care rooted in listening and empathy. Each patient is unique, and our greatest satisfaction is restoring the comfort you thought you had lost.
An approach appreciated by our patients. Rated 5.0/5 on Google.

Who provides your ZEST treatment at Experience Care?

Karine Charbonneau — Infirmière clinicienne, spécialiste sécheresse oculaire à la Clinique CARE
Karine Charbonneau
Clinical Nurse

A registered nurse trained in pediatrics at Sainte-Justine Hospital, Karine Charbonneau later specialized in the dry eye clinic. Recognized by her patients for her gentleness, patience, and attentiveness, she supports each individual with precision and care, from the first appointment to long-term follow-up.

Carolane Lavigne
Nurse

With an approach that combines Softness, Transparency and Great Meticulousness, Carolane ensures that each patient immediately feels confident and safe.

Its objective is simple: to make your care experience as comfortable as it is effective.

With a rich nursing experience that began in 2014, Carolane has enriched her expertise with a background in Medical Aesthetic Treatments To offer you the most recent protocols.

Passionate about improving the quality of life, she is entirely dedicated to supporting you with listening and professionalism throughout your career at the CARE clinic.

Dre. Francesca Olinga
Optometrist

An optometrist and founder of the CARE Clinic, Dr. Francesca Olinga understands dry eye because she has experienced it. Experienced in the management of complex cases (neuropathic pain, demodex, chalazions), she uses innovation and attentive listening to guide you toward improved eye comfort.

FAQS
How long does a ZEST session last?

Active exfoliation of the eyelid margins takes about 10 to 15 minutes for both eyes. The entire clinic visit, including the examination and rinsing, lasts about 30 minutes.

Is the treatment painful?

No. Okra gel is gentle and free of harsh agents. The main sensation is a light massage along the eyelid margins, with occasional brief tingling. No anesthesia is needed.

How many sessions are needed?

ZEST is usually done in a single session. Your optometrist may then recommend maintenance treatments every 6 months to 1 year, depending on your individual needs.

Does this replace my home wipes?

No, it's a complementary treatment. ZEST provides a deep clean of the biofilm that wipes can't reach, all the way to the base of the lashes. At-home wipes remain important between clinic visits.

Are there any side effects?

You may notice mild redness or sensitivity along the eyelid margins for a few hours, which resolves on its own. Allergic reactions to the gel are rare, but possible if you have a known allergy to okra.