By Lifestyle Team

How to Find the Most Effective Eye Drops: Best Eye Drops & Other Natural Remedies for Dry Eyes

Looking for the most effective eye drops for your eyes? Do you prefer natural remedies or eye drops without preservatives? Have red, itchy eyes after staring at your computer screen for too long?

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We’ve collected a list of the best eye drops for every eye type. From contact-safe solutions to preservative-free eye drops, we’ve broken down the prices and features of some of the best eye drops on the market. Further below, we’ve also compiled tips on treating dry eyes with natural remedies. Read below to find the most effective dry eye solution for you!

Dry eye syndrome can significantly reduce one’s quality of life. Due to this condition, you might be at unease during work or while spending quality time with friends and family. But with a few changes in your lifestyle or while opting for some home remedies, you might just be able to cure the disease. Treatment from home is the first step towards recovery. However, if the problem persists for longer, and you develop symptoms of prolonged pain, change in eye color, you must visit an eye specialist immediately as there may be an underlying condition involved.

Common symptoms for dry eyes

If you are curious as to know if you have dry eyes or not, the following symptoms may help in diagnosing dry eye syndrome:

  • Eyelid heaviness
  • Fatigue in eyes
  • Blurry vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Itchy eyes
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Discharge
  • Unease due to the feeling of something being in your eye

A poll conducted in 2012 estimated that by 2022, over 29 million Americans alone will fall victim to the disease.

What causes dry eyes

While there may be a ton of external conditions or medications that might impact your eye health (such as those listed below), the most common cause of having dry eyes is the lack of adequate tears that lubricate your eyeballs.

  • Medication for acne
  • Parkinson’s disease medication
  • Anti-depressants
  • Drugs that lower blood pressure
  • Hormone therapy
  • Decongestants for nasal
  • Antihistamines

Risks factors associated with dry eyes

While the dry eye syndrome may vary from one person to another, several factors may increase the chances of having a dry eye syndrome.

  • Elderly: 65 and above
  • Gender: Mostly females
  • Using contact lenses often
  • Smoking
  • Blinking less due to increased on-screen time
  • Vitamin deficiencies
  • Diabetes and other chronic illnesses
  • Environmental changes and extremes
  • Lupus and other autoimmune diseases

Best Eye Drops for Dry Eyes

1. SYSTANE ULTRA Lubricant Eye Drops, 10-mL

Systane Ultra Lubricant Eye Drops offer immediate, long-lasting relief and can be bought over the counter easily at any CVS or Walgreens. These eye drops are preservative-free and are perfect for those who have sensitive eyes.

The average price for one bottle is $13.

2. Refresh Tears Lubricant

Refresh Tears Lubricant can be used safely with contact lenses and offer fast acting relief. The drops can be used on an as needed basis and creates a protective shield around your eyes.

The average price is $10 for a bottle.

3. Thealoz Duo Gel Dry Eye Lubricant

For those with more severe dry eyes, these eye drops are suitable for overnight use. The gel creates a protective layer around your eyes for long lasting relief. Please note, these eye drops are NOT to be used with contacts. You must remove your contacts before use.

The average price is for 10 ML is $14.

4. Rohto, Cooling Eye Drops, Dual Action Redness + Dryness Relief

This product from Rohto offers a two-in-one formula to combat both eye redness and dryness. Relief should last up to 8 hours and is meant for general use. These drops are not for use with contacts.

These eye drops can be bought at Walmart for as low as $4.40 per 0.4 oz.

5. Boiron, Optique 1, Eye Irritation Relief

These eye drops are great for those with minor eye irritation due to allergies or overall fatigue. The drops are preservative-free. These eye drops should not be used while you are wearing contacts.

The average price for 10 doses is $6.

6. Similasan, Stye Eye Relief, Sterile Eye Drops

Made with natural active ingredients and without harsh chemicals, these eye drops are perfect for those with sensitive eyes who need frequent dosages. These drops can be used safely with contact lenses, but for better protection, it is best to use them without contacts.

The average price is $9 for a 0.33 oz bottle.

7. Hyalogic, HylaTears, Lubricant Eye Drops for Dry Eyes

If your dry eyes are only mild to moderate, these eye drops will offer instant comfort and protection against dryness and exposure to wind or sun. The drops themselves are gluten-free and vegan-friendly. Remove your contact lenses before use (contact lenses can be reapplied afterwards).

A 0.67 oz bottle can be bought for $14.95.

Natural Remedies for Dry Eyes

1. Wash your eyes properly

While you wash your face, rinse your eyes thoroughly while focusing on your eyelashes and eyelids. Baby shampoo mixed with warm water should give you a nice cleanse. Do this, especially if you have applied any eye makeup or have used any product near your eyes that might irritate them.

2. Rest eyes

Staying connected to your smartphones or laptops 24/7 may be harmful to your eye health. The light from screens can be damaging and irritating in most cases. Take regular breaks and follow light eye exercises such as the 20-20-20 rule.

Blinking your eyes more often not only strengthens your eye muscles but also reduces the strain on them. Try blinking normally, but more than usual (after every 20 minutes), and it will help to open up the glands and stimulate the lubrication of the eyeball.

4. Healthy diet

Omega-3 oils can help you regulate the functioning of the gland that produces tears and ultimately reduces the chances of having a dry eye. Flax seeds, walnuts, Salmon, Tuna, and other fatty fish are some of the natural omega-3 sources that can instantly boost eye health. Consider adding necessary vitamins such as Vitamin B12, Vitamin E, C, B6 and B9, Thiamine, and more that are good for your eyes.

5. Say no to smoking and alcohol

Smoking can often irritate the eyes, whereas drinking can be very dehydrating for your eyes. These two addictions may worsen the symptoms and are two things that must never intercede with a person suffering from dry eyes as their eye health may eventually deteriorate. It is also recommended that you stay away from places and environments that are polluted heavily by smoke

6. Stay hydrated

While drinking water may be good for your skin, it is also great for your eyes. Avoiding dehydration allows proper lubrication for your eyes, leading to the production of tears and enhancing focus (talk about HD vision). Dehydration may cause your eyes to be at unease as it may be unable to clear out any debris, and you may also not be able to blink or see without straining your eyes.

DIY remedies may cater to temporary situations of the conditions, in the event of persistent symptoms that deteriorate over time, you must immediately seek medical attention. Some symptoms may indicate an underlying health condition, and you should get the right diagnosis and treatment by dealing with it professionally.