Eye drops for dry eyes reviews năm 2024

Only one application and 24 hours later my eyes still feel terrific. Not sure if it was due to my eye condition or a side effect of the drug or but I did experience a slight pressure around the eyes for about the first hour but after that my eyes felt great.

Most voted negative review

3 People found this comment helpful

I have been using this for about 1 month. Several minutes after use the drops I become extremely sleepy. To the point I cannot stay awake. It also makes my eyes really blurry. I will not continue to use this product.

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Out of all the inconveniences we may run into, dry eyes can be one of the most uncomfortable and debilitating.

You may have heard people say, “just use eye drops!” But, if you’re nervous about dousing yourself with a drop or two (or, simply haven’t read up on best practices for using eye drops), you may be a bit hesitant to pick up a miniature dropper-bottle.

The most important part in deciding whether using eye drops on your dry eyes is right for you is learning about how to properly use one — especially if you have severe dryness or wear contact lenses — and which ones to pick up. Naturally, New York Post Shopping called upon an optometrist to give us the run-down of the 11 best eye drops on the market and what to know before adding one to your daily routine.

“Eye drops are used by individuals experiencing eye-related discomfort, those with specific eye conditions like glaucoma or conjunctivitis, allergy sufferers, contact lens wearers and people who work in environments that may cause dry eyes, such as prolonged computer usage or exposure to air conditioning,” Inna Lazar, OD, Connecticut-based optometrist who specializes in ocular surface diseases, dry eye management and the provision of custom-tailored specialty contact lenses, told the New York Post.

Much like shopping for the best vitamin D supplements, eye drops — especially those who have dry eyes — requires plenty of research. Of course, speak with your optometrist for any severe symptoms you may experience. Rest assured you’ll have many of your questions answered, though, in our in-depth explaining all things eye drops.

Plus, be sure to shop our guides to the best eyeglasses frames to buy online, best polarized sunglasses and best blue light-blocking glasses for more on eyecase.

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Editor’s Note: In light of recent recalls of certain generic eye drops due to life-threatening bacterial contamination, it’s now advised to consider using reputable brand-name options to ensure safety and efficacy.

Best Value

1. Systane Lubricant Eye Gel, $13

Eye drops for dry eyes reviews năm 2024
Amazon

Pros:

  • Especially helpful for those who use glaucoma medication and suffer from allergies
  • Said to provide long-lasting relief

Cons:

  • May not be the best for those with sensitive eyes

Dr. Lazar recommends the Systane Lubricant Eye Gel because of its “gel-like consistency” and its efficacy for nighttime use. For less than $15, they’re backed by more than 5,000 positive reviews for its thick formulation that coats the eye with a strong layer of dry eye symptom protection.

More, reviewers say they’re wonderful for providing “long-lasting relief,” another checkmark in Systane’s favor.


2. GenTeal Tears Lubricant Eye Drops, $10

Eye drops for dry eyes reviews năm 2024
Amazon

Pros:

  • Especially great for those who had LASIK surgery
  • Helps alleviate itchy eyes in addition to dry eyes

Cons:

  • Sometimes, the formula trickles to the outside of the eyes, though not a deal-breaker
  • Some reviewers say it’s difficult to receive a small drop from its dispenser, which tends to lead to waste more easily

“The GenTeal Tears Lubricant Eye Drops have a gel-like consistency, [are] great for nighttime use, and especially great for those who wear CPAP machines or tend to open their eyes while sleeping,” Lazar highlights.

Even better, they’re said to offer the strength of a gel but with the convenience of a drop, especially beneficial for dry eyes.


3. Refresh Tears Lubricant Eye Drops (2-Pack), $14

Eye drops for dry eyes reviews năm 2024
Target

Pros:

  • Best-selling and one of the most value-driven eye drops on this list
  • Soothing formulation that doesn’t burn the eyes

Cons:

  • Some reviewers who have chronic dry eyes say this formulation isn’t moist enough

Meet a No. 1 Amazon best-seller that Lazar also recommends as a great value-driven eye drops option: the Refresh Tears Lubricant Eye Drops. With more than 22,000 applauding reviews — and counting — its original-strength formula is best to help alleviate mild symptoms of dryness, thanks to its near-instant moisturizing, lubricating formula.

“These are super hydrating, soothing, and great for those who need that morning moisture,” Lazar adds.


Best Preservative-Free Eye Drops

1. iVIZIA Sterile Lubricant Eye Drops for Dry Eyes, $9 to $12

Eye drops for dry eyes reviews năm 2024
Amazon

Pros:

  • Scientifically formulated to include hyaluronic acid
  • Said to last for up to 8 hours
  • Preservative-free and safe for contacts-wearers

Cons:

  • Some reviewers say the dispenser could be of higher quality to make the drops come out easier

The iVIZIA Sterile Lubricant Eye Drops for Dry Eyes “contain hyaluronic acid and is highly effective for long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms,” Lazar says. “The best part is that it’s preservative-free and comes in a reusable bottle to reduce plastic waste.”

Moreover, it’s safe for use with contact lenses and is budget-friendly at less than $15.


2. Oasis TEARS PF Preservative-Free Lubricant Drops, $23

Eye drops for dry eyes reviews năm 2024
Amazon

Pros:

  • Comforting formula that helps soothe itchy eyes in addition to dry eyes
  • Especially great for those undergoing pre-cataracts surgery prep
  • Preservative-free

Cons:

  • Some reviewers say the dispenser could have been made better

“The Oasis TEARS Preservative-Free Lubricant Drops contain glycerin as its active ingredient to keep tears on the eye surface for an extended duration,” Lazar highlights. This particular formulation is also backed by more than 1,500 positive reviews for its comforting and soothing feel once applied.

Plus, it’s great if you also have itchy eyes, per one reviewer who stands by the brand’s drops.


3. Optase Dry Eye Preservative-Free Intense Drops, $24

Eye drops for dry eyes reviews năm 2024
Amazon

Pros:

  • Reviewers say these are “the most hydrating and effective drops” they’ve found
  • Especially helpful for those who hate the feeling of watery eyes

Cons:

  • Some reviewers say the bottle needs an upgrade, though doesn’t impact the way in which the drops come out

The easy-to-use Optase Dry Eye Preservative-Free Intense Drops are less than $25 and help relieve moderate to severe dry eye symptoms — all while maintaining a dosage that’s recommended for sensitive eyes and allergy-prone eyes. Its convenient multi-use drop bottle maintains sterility for more than three months, too, nodding to its more than 3,000 rave reviews on Amazon.

“Glycerin and hyaluronic acid are contained in this technologically advanced multi-use bottle, which holds 300 drops,” Lazar notes. “It’s great for applications over four times a day.”


1. BioTrue Hydration Boost Lubricant Eye Drops, $7 to $13

Eye drops for dry eyes reviews năm 2024
Amazon

Pros:

  • Naturally moisturizing formula
  • Helps prevent clogged pores around the eyes that can lead to eye infections

Cons:

  • Some reviewers say they could be more long-lasting

Recommended for soft contacts-wearers, the BioTrue Hydration Boost Lubricant Eye Drops hail from a trusted brand those who don’t wear glasses 24/7 swear by. Not to mention, the drops’ less-than-$15 price tag is another bonus — dry eye relief aside.

“Besides glycerin and hyaluronic acid, these eye drops contain electrolytes to supplement natural tears, which can be especially beneficial for contact lens wearers,” Lazar says.

Lazar also recommends the iVIZIA Sterile Lubricant Eye Drops for Dry Eyes ($9 to $12) for contacts, ranked as one of the best preservative-free eye drops in this guide.


Best Eye Drops for Daytime and Nighttime

1. Systane Balance Lubricant Eye Drops (1- or 2-Pack), $13 to $22

Eye drops for dry eyes reviews năm 2024
Walmart

Pros:

  • Long-lasting formula
  • Well-made dispenser

Cons:

  • Some reviewers say the formulation could be a bit more moisturizing

Pick up the Systane Balance Lubricant Eye Drops if you’re seeking eye drops that can be used in the morning or evening, as they’re designed to work on all three layers of your eye’s tear film. Impressively, these eye drops help support your eye’s own natural tears by restoring its lipid layer, dousing your eyes with much-needed hydration.

“This is a great supplement for the sensitive lipid layer, due to evaporation, which is often caused by daily screen use and infrequent blinking,” Lazar notes.


2. OCuSOFT Retaine MGD Lubricant Eye Drops, $19 to $27

Eye drops for dry eyes reviews năm 2024
Amazon

Pros:

  • Especially great for severe dryness and geriatric patients
  • Some reviewers say the quality is much better than drugstore formulations

Cons:

  • Packaging isn’t sustainable

The OCuSOFT Retaine MGD Lubricant Eye Drops are less than $30, preservative-free, helps relieve irritation and dryness and are said to provide much-needed, long-lasting comfort. What’s better than that?

“The main ingredient in this product is mineral oil, which is excellent for soothing eye irritation in patients with evaporative dry eyes,” Lazar shares.

With a sensational 12,000 gleaming reviews — and counting — this particular formulation uses a proprietary nova orb, a cationic oil emulsion technology that’s said to effectively deliver ingredients through electrostatic attraction between positively charged droplets and the negatively charged ocular surface.


3. Optase Hylo Night Dry Eye Ointment, $17, original price: $20

Eye drops for dry eyes reviews năm 2024
Amazon

Pros:

  • Helps produce long-lasting, effective relief, especially with consistent use
  • Wonderful to use at night for overnight soothing

Cons:

  • Not recommended for those who are pregnant or nursing, as this contains a form of retinol in its formulation

The Optase Hylo Night Dry Eye Ointment is soothing on the sensitive eye area, contains vitamin A to help nourish and strengthen the eye area and is safe for continuous nighttime use for up to 6 months until it’s recommended to buy a new tube.

“This eye ointment, which includes vitamin A as an inactive ingredient, aids in enhancing the tear film and protecting the eye’s surface,” Lazar explains. “Think of it as ‘slugging’ for your eyeballs.”

Be sure to note this product is not recommended for those who are pregnant or nursing as it contains retinol. On that note, be sure not to mix it with any glycolic acid skincare products or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) at large.


Best Eye Drops for Severe Dryness

1. Bausch & Lomb Nighttime Preservative-Free Lubricant Eye Ointment, $10

Eye drops for dry eyes reviews năm 2024
Walmart

Pros:

  • Some reviewers say it doesn’t leave that unwanted watery, sticky feeling
  • Helps keep the corneas lubricated without irritation

If you’re experiencing severe dryness, Lazar recommends the Bausch & Lomb Nighttime Preservative-Free Lubricant Eye Ointment, conveniently just $10 to help tone down those unwanted dryness levels.

With more than 1,500 glistening reviews for its nighttime-friendly ointment that also doubles as a preventative treatment for possible irritation, it’s also preservative-free; just make sure to remove contact lenses, if applicable, before applying.

Lazar also recommends the Oasis TEARS PF Preservative-Free Lubricant Drops ($23) for severe dryness, ranked as one of the best preservative-free eye drops in this guide.


An FAQ on eye drops for dry eyes

Ahead, Lazar gives us a detailed overview of what to know about eye drops so you feel well-equipped to begin using them for your dry eyes (if, in fact, it sounds like you’d benefit from use).

What are eye drops?

First things first, let’s boil down these popular over-the-counter products — before understanding if they’re right for you.

“Eye drops are a type of medication or solution used to deliver moisture, relieve discomfort, or treat conditions in the eyes, often administered directly into the eye through a dropper,” Lazar tells The Post.

What are the benefits of using eye drops?

According to Lazar, eye drops can provide a variety of benefits such as moisturizing dry eyes, reducing redness and inflammation, relieving irritation and discomfort or delivering medication to treat specific eye conditions like glaucoma or allergies.

What types of eye drops can I find on the market?

There are quite a few types of eye drops available on the market, some most common ones, including lubricating drops for dry eyes, redness-reducing drops, allergy drops, antibiotic drops for infections, anti-glaucoma drops and prescription drops for various specific eye conditions.

Why do I have dry eyes?

The golden question — why are my eyes dry, and how can I help make them “more hydrated,” so to speak?

“Dry eyes can be triggered by numerous factors, including the natural aging process, hormonal changes, exposure to harsh environmental conditions, certain medications and systemic health conditions like autoimmune diseases,” Lazar notes. “Although there’s a genetic aspect to dry eye syndrome, particularly when associated with conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, it’s important to remember it’s generally a multifactorial issue, influenced by a complex interplay of both genetic makeup and lifestyle choices.”

That said, the rising prevalence of dry eye conditions and styes, even among our youth, can be linked to the realities of our modern lifestyles: hours spent staring at digital screens and the increasing tendency to live and work in climate-controlled indoor spaces.

“Additionally, skin disorders like rosacea, often underestimated, play a significant role in causing red, watery, and swollen eyes,” she adds.

“It’s important to understand that having good vision doesn’t necessarily mean your eyes are healthy, as some eye diseases may not affect vision in their early stages. Thus, it is vital to prioritize comprehensive eye exams regularly, even if you believe your vision is excellent, to detect any potential issues early and maintain overall eye health.” Inna Lazar, MD, Connecticut-based optometrist who specializes in ocular surface diseases, dry eye management and the provision of custom-tailored specialty contact lenses

How do prescription eye drops work?

“Prescription eye drops work by delivering specific medications directly to the eyes to treat conditions such as glaucoma, eye infections, allergies, or inflammation, often by reducing intraocular pressure, combating pathogens, or mitigating allergic reactions,” Lazar says.

When ordering prescription eye drops online, it’s crucial to ensure that they’re obtained from a legitimate pharmacy, as these are medications that require a valid prescription from a healthcare provider. “Being able to purchase them without a doctor’s prescription is a serious red flag and could indicate the potential risk of receiving counterfeit or unsafe medications,” she warns.

How to properly apply eye drops, per an optometrist

To use eye drops correctly, tilt your head back, gently pull your lower eyelid down, hold the dropper tip down over the eye, and squeeze out the prescribed number of drops without letting the dropper touch your eye or any other surfaces to prevent contamination.

“It’s also important to store the drops in a cool, dry area separate from cosmetic products to prevent mix-ups with items like eyelash or nail glue, and always make sure to read the bottle before application,” Lazar notes.

How to use eye drops if you wear contacts, per an optometrist

According to Lazar, best practices for using eye drops with contacts entail removing the lenses before administering the drops (unless they’re contact lens-friendly), waiting a minimum of 15 minutes before reinserting, and importantly, if you find yourself needing to use eye drops more than four times a day, it’s crucial to consult an eye care professional to address the root cause of the discomfort or dryness.

How often should eye drops be used?

Of course, the frequency of eye drop use should be determined by the type of drop and the condition being treated.

“Generally, they should be used as per the instructions given by the eye care provider or as indicated on the product label,” Lazar chimes in.

Are preservative-free eye drops “better?” What are they, exactly?

“Preservative-free eye drops are formulations without added preservatives, which can be beneficial for those with sensitive eyes or allergies,” she notes. While they’re not inherently “better”, they “may be a preferable option for individuals who use eye drops frequently or have a sensitivity to preservatives,” she notes.

When would I see a difference from using eye drops?

“The effect of eye drops can range from immediate relief for conditions like allergies or redness, to more long-term results over several weeks for conditions like dry eye, glaucoma, largely dependent on the type of drop and the condition being treated,” Lazar highlights.

What is the best eye drops for extremely dry eyes?

Summary: Compare the Best Eye Drops for Dry Eyes of 2024.

What do ophthalmologist recommend for dry eye?

You can also try the following strategies to relieve dry eye..

Use artificial tears. Use artificial tears periodically throughout day. ... .

Try warm compresses. Use a wash cloth or warm eye mask. ... .

Avoid certain environments. ... .

Use a humidifier. ... .

Take a break from electronic screens. ... .

Drink plenty of water..

What are the best eye drops for severe dry eyes Australia?

NovaTears® + Omega-3. Enhanced lubrication & protection with Omega-3 for dry eyes. ... .

NovaTears® Preservative-free lubricating eye drops for Evaporative Dry Eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. ... .

HYLO®-Fresh. ... .

HYLO-Forte® ... .

Opti-Soothe® Moist Heat Mask. ... .

Opti-Soothe® Preservative-free Eyelid Wipes. ... .

VitA-POS® ... .

Cromo-Fresh®.

Which is better Systane or Refresh?

Refresh has an average rating of 7.0 out of 10 from a total of 3 ratings on Drugs.com. 67% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 33% reported a negative effect. Systane has an average rating of 2.0 out of 10 from a total of 110 ratings on Drugs.com.