Some people experience dry eye syndrome and eye irritation which can be a result of many different things but there is no need to fret. Dry eye syndrome is a condition that causes the tear film to evaporate, leaving your eyes feeling dry, irritated, and painful. There are many causes of dry eye syndrome, but one of the most common is the decrease in natural lubricants or the lack of them.
Many people use lubricating eye drops to treat dry eye syndrome. These eye drops (artificial tears) are specially formulated to help keep you comfortable and prevent further damage. Some people may experience side effects when using lubricating eye drops, but they're still a good option to consider. This article is going to be discussing some of the best lubricating eye drops on the market.
What is lubricating eye drops?
Lubricating eye drops can also called artificial tears are eye drops that are used to moisten and lubricate the eyes. They are often used to relieve symptoms of dry eye, such as discomfort, redness, and tearing. These drops usually contain ingredients such as glycerin, propylene glycol, or polyethylene glycol that help to hydrate the eyes and reduce friction between the eyelids and the cornea.
What are some of the best lubricating eye drops?
Some of the best lubricating eye drops and there are more than a few types that can also be called artificial tears include:
- Systane
- Opti-Free
- Refresh Tears
- GenTeal Tears
- Bausch + Lomb ReNu
- Blink Tears
These are some of the most popular and highly rated lubricating eye drops available in the market. It's important to remember that the best eye drop for one person may not be the best for another, and it's always best to consult with an eye doctor before using any new eye drops.
What are some of the side effects?
Common side effects of lubricating eye drops include:
- Stinging or burning sensation when applied
- Blurred vision temporarily after use
- Increased tear production
- Redness
- Itching
- Mild eye irritation
In rare cases, people may experience an allergic reaction to the ingredients in the eye drops, which can cause symptoms such as itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any serious side effects or an allergic reaction, stop using the eye drops and seek medical attention immediately. It's always best to talk to your eye doctor before using any new eye drops to ensure they are safe and appropriate for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lubricating eye drops are an effective way to relieve dry eye symptoms and maintain moisture in your eyes. Whether you're looking for a preservative-free or a multi-dose form, there is a lubricating eye drop that will work for you.
Dry eyes are a common problem for many people and can lead to discomfort, redness, and even vision problems if left untreated. One of the best ways to relieve these symptoms is to use lubricating eye drops. These eye drops help moisturize the eyes and reduce friction between the eyelids and the cornea, providing relief from dry eye symptoms.
Need help? We've done the research for you and found the Best Lubricating Eye Drops on Amazon. Every day, we read hundreds of reviews and try the highest-rated products we have on our list.
Best Lubricating Eye Drops - Reviews
The Best
Systane Ultra Lubricant Eye Drops.
About this product
Systane Ultra: Systane Ultra is another popular lubricating eye drop that is designed to provide long-lasting relief from severe dry eye symptoms if looking at the computer screen for hours and environmental factors. It contains a blend of ingredients, including polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol, that work together to hydrate the eyes to manage dry eye disease and reduce friction between the eyelids and the cornea. Systane Ultra is available in both a vial and a single-use drop form, making it convenient to use on the go.
This is a great product and there is a large percentage of users that use it every day. The thicker formulation seems to keep it from just running out from the surface of your eyes almost immediately hence great for severely dry eyes. These work well for occasional or periodic eye dryness. They also work well for other eye irritations, like contact lens wearers, and light sensitivity. They tend to hang on the eye's surface where are most needed.
Some previous users said that this was not the real Systane it is a Fraudulent/Counterfeit product. Others mentioned that they received an expired use-by date. Can be pricey.
Our Thoughts - Amazon you are not checking the products your sellers are selling! Systane is a respected brand. They are also recommended by ophthalmologists.
Very Good
Opti-Free Puremoist Rewetting Drops.
About this product
- When using contact lenses, Opti-Free Puremoist Rewetting Drops provide you with a rejuvenating burst of wetness for included convenience and fewer additives.
- Gets rid of particles that trigger inflammation.
- Assists avoid deposit accumulation.
- For Usage with all Silicone Hydrogel and other Soft Contact Lenses.
If you wear contact lenses this is a must. No matter the reason for your contact lens discomfort, these rewetting drops are liquid gold. These cost more than some generic brands but are very good rewetting drops and worth it to treat dry eyes.
Some previous users said that this was not the real Opti-Free it is a Fraudulent/Counterfeit product. Others mentioned that this never had happened with any other re-wetting solutions. A few received Opti-free expired use-by dates.
Our Thoughts - These can sting and burn eyes. If you have the same issue, try some preservative-free drops in single-use vials. Ophthalmologists recommend only preservative-free.
Good Value
Refresh Tears Lubricant Eye Drops.
About this product
Refresh Tears: Refresh Tears is a popular and highly rated lubricating eye drop. It contains carboxymethylcellulose, a substance that helps to moisturize severe dry eyes and provides relief from dry eye symptoms. Refresh Tears is available in both a preservative-free and a multi-dose form, making it a versatile choice for people with dry eyes.
The good news is that a very high amount of customers are very happy with Refresh Tears. These are smooth and blur-free. Long-term users of Refresh Tears have been extremely satisfied with the results. These eye drops provide quick and lasting relief. The formula is gentle and non-irritating, and it leaves the eyes feeling refreshed and moisturized.
Some users had different experiences with this product:
a. Receiving the wrong product.
b. Received the product already opened.
c. Can give a pink eye.
d. Only received one bottle.
e. Still waiting to receive the Refresh Tears after two weeks.
f. Received Refresh Tears too close to the expiry date.
Our Thoughts - Come on Amazon, lift your game!
Ophthalmologists have recommended these specific eye drops for years. The reason preservatives are so important in eye drops is to be sure to prevent harmful bacteria that can lead to very serious eye conditions.
Good
GenTeal Tears Lubricant Eye Drops.
About this product
GenTeal: GenTeal is a lubricating eye drop that is designed to provide relief from severe dry eye symptoms and reduce inflammation. It contains hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, which helps to moisturize the eyes and provide long-lasting relief. GenTeal is available in both a liquid and a gel form, making it a versatile choice for people with dry eyes.
It's not all bad news, a very high amount of customers are very happy with GenTeal Tears. A long-time user: "tried a lot of different eye drops and these are by far the best! For degenerative eye disease where eyes can’t produce enough lubricant, these provide the relief and moisture needed. Great how well the drops lubricate the eyes when they are dry and tired.
Some users had different experiences with this product:
a. Receiving a crushed box with the wrong product
b. Received the product already opened.
c. Can give a pink eye.
d. Only received one bottle.
e. Made the eyes worse. Put some drops in before bed and the next morning could hardly open the eyes.
Our Thoughts - Again, Amazon what's going on? Just the right consistency. Some users have tried the gel formulation but found it to be too thick for use while doing computer work.
Good
Bausch + Lomb ReNu MultiPlus Lubricating & Rewetting Drops.
About this product
- For prolonged and everyday wear, regular replacement, and nonreusable soft contact lenses.
- Relieves eyes.
- Dampens lenses to decrease dryness.
- Sterilized, isotonic service.
- Please check out all label details when received.
- Keep in mind: The product displayed in the video is for representation functions just. The product will be sent out as displayed in images.
A long-time user that has tried many brands: "Tried many brands of lubricating drops for my eyes since I wear extended-wear disposable contacts, and these are hands-down the best!" Usually, these cost $5-6 per bottle at the local grocery store and drug store, but on Amazon, the twin pack is the best deal out there.
These are great just smaller bottles with two in the box and next-day shipping! If you are a contact lenses wearer they are refreshing and soothing.
Some users had different experiences with this product:
a. Received the product already opened.
b. Only received one bottle.
c. Made the eyes sting.
d. Received ReNu too close to the expiry date.
e. Product received not manufactured by Bosch + Lomb.
f. Gave red eye.
Our Thoughts - The bottle drips just a small amount so there is no waste and it doesn't take but a tiny bit to give relief. For the price, these are very good.
Good
Blink Tears Sterile Single Use Vials.
About this product
Blink Tears: Blink Tears is a preservative-free lubricating eye drop that is designed to provide immediate relief from dry eye symptoms. It contains glycerin, which helps to moisturize the eyes and provide long-lasting relief. Blink Tears is available in both a single-use drop form and a multi-dose bottle, making it a convenient choice for people with dry eyes.
Soothing eye drops for dry eyes. If you had cataracts or Lasik eye surgery, surgeons may recommend Blink Tears after surgery. The Viles are individually packaged and do not have preservatives. Great for people with an allergy to preservatives.
Some users had different experiences with this product:
a. Received the product already opened.
b. Made the eyes sting.
c. Was not effective, did nothing.
One of the main cons here is the packaging and shipping issues.
Our Thoughts - These Blink Tears are not for everyone. Keep away from the Viles and get the bottles instead. Slightly pricey but worth it.
FAQs
What eye drops do doctors prescribe for dry eyes?
Some common eye drops that doctors prescribe for dry eyes include:
- Most major brands: Mimic natural tears and help lubricate the eyes.
- Restasis: This medication helps increase tear production.
- Xiidra: Similar to Restasis, this medication also helps increase tear production.
- Steroid eye drops: In severe cases of dry eyes, a doctor may prescribe a steroid eye drop to reduce inflammation.
It is important to note that these eye drops may have different dosing schedules, administration instructions, and side effects. A doctor should be consulted to determine the best option for a specific patient.
Are there any drawbacks to using lubricating eye drops every day?
Yes, there are some drawbacks to using lubricating eye drops every day:
- Dependence: Some people may become dependent on using eye drops every day, as they may feel that their eyes are uncomfortable without them.
- Cost: Depending on the type of eye drop, lubricating eye drops can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance.
- Possible side effects: Some people may experience side effects such as stinging, redness, or itching after using eye drops.
- Overuse: Overuse of lubricating eye drops can lead to a decrease in natural tear production, making dry eyes worse in the long run.
- Contamination risk: If the tip of the eye drop bottle touches the eye or any other surface, it can become contaminated, increasing the risk of infection.
It's important to use eye drops as directed by a doctor and to not exceed the recommended frequency or duration of use. If a person experiences any discomfort or side effects from using lubricating eye drops, they should consult their doctor.
What is the best current eye treatment for dry eyes?
There is no one "best" treatment for dry eyes, as the best option depends on the individual's specific case and the cause of their dry eyes. However, some common treatments for dry eyes include:
- Lubricating eye drops (artificial tears): These mimic natural tears and help lubricate the eyes.
- Restasis or Xiidra: These medications help increase tear production.
- Punctal plugs: These are tiny devices that are placed in the tear ducts to help retain natural tears on the eye surface.
- Heat or moisture treatments: Using a warm compress or a special type of glasses that provide a moist environment for the eyes can help relieve dry eye symptoms.
- Omega-3 fatty acid supplements: These supplements have been shown to help improve the quality of the tears and reduce dry eye symptoms.
- Lipiflow or IPL: These are in-office procedures that use heat and pressure to unblock meibomian glands and improve oil production in the tear film.
A doctor can help determine the best treatment option based on the individual's specific case, the cause of their dry eyes, and any underlying health conditions they may have.
How can dry eyes be permanently cured naturally?
While there is no permanent cure for dry eyes, there are several lifestyle changes and natural remedies that can help relieve symptoms and improve tear production:
- Increase blinking: Blink more frequently, especially when using a computer or other digital devices.
- Eye exercises: Some simple eye exercises can help improve tear production and reduce dry eye symptoms.
- Warm compresses: Using a warm compress over closed eyes can help unblock meibomian glands and improve oil production in the tear film.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Consuming foods high in omega-3 fatty acids or taking supplements has been shown to improve the quality of tears and reduce dry eye symptoms.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated can help keep the eyes moisturized.
- Reduce screen time: Try to limit time spent looking at digital screens, and take frequent breaks to look away from the screen and blink.
- Avoid dry environments: Use a humidifier in dry environments to help keep the air moist.
- Avoid certain products: Avoid using products that can irritate the eyes, such as smoke, harsh chemicals, and certain cosmetics.
It's important to understand that while these remedies can help relieve symptoms, they may not completely cure dry eyes in all cases. If symptoms persist or worsen, a doctor should be consulted.
Do I have to close my eyes after eye drops?
Yes, it is recommended to close your eyes after applying eye drops to allow the medication to absorb into the eye and prevent the drops from draining out. This helps ensure that the maximum amount of medication (artificial tears) reaches the eye, where it can be effective.
