What are the best eye drops for dry eyes?

There is no single “best” eye drop for dry eye, as treatment depends on the underlying cause. According to the TFOS DEWS III framework, dry eye is a multifactorial disease involving tear film instability, inflammation, and ocular surface damage. For many patients, preservative-free lubricating eye drops are recommended as first-line therapy, particularly for frequent or long-term use. An optometrist can help select drops based on tear quality, evaporation rate, and ocular surface findings.

How often should I use eye drops for dry eyes?

The frequency of eye drop use depends on symptom severity and the type of drop used. Preservative-free drops may be used multiple times per day, whereas preserved drops should be used less frequently to avoid ocular surface irritation. If drops are needed more than 4–6 times daily, clinical guidance generally recommends preservative-free formulations and a dry eye assessment.

Can you use eye drops too often?

Yes. Overuse of preserved eye drops can worsen dry eye symptoms by disrupting the tear film and irritating the ocular surface. DEWS III emphasises minimising preservative exposure and addressing underlying causes—such as meibomian gland dysfunction or inflammation—rather than relying solely on frequent lubrication.

What is the difference between Polytears, Systane, and Hylo eye drops?

Polytears, Systane, and Hylo are lubricating eye drops, but they differ in formulation, viscosity, and preservative status. Some are better suited for mild, intermittent dryness, while others are designed for more persistent symptoms or contact lens wear. Brand name alone does not determine suitability; clinical evaluation does.

Are preservative-free eye drops better for dry eyes?

For many patients, yes. Preservative-free eye drops are commonly recommended for moderate to severe dry eye, frequent use, contact lens wear, and sensitive eyes. DEWS III highlights that long-term preservative exposure can contribute to ocular surface irritation in some people.

Can contact lens wear make dry eye worse?

Contact lenses can exacerbate dry eye symptoms by disrupting tear film stability and increasing evaporation. However, with appropriate lens materials, care systems, and compatible eye drops, many contact lens wearers can remain comfortable. Drops labelled as safe for use with contact lenses are typically preferred during lens wear.

How do I know which eye drops are right for me?

Dry eye is not a single condition. Effective management requires identifying whether symptoms are driven by evaporation, aqueous deficiency, inflammation, or eyelid disease. A dry eye assessment—including tear stability, ocular surface staining, and meibomian gland evaluation—helps guide targeted treatment rather than trial-and-error.

Are thicker eye drops better than watery ones?

Not always. Thicker drops may provide longer relief but can blur vision and may not be ideal for daytime use. Thinner drops may be better tolerated but may require more frequent application. DEWS III supports matching drop viscosity to symptom pattern and lifestyle needs.

Can dry eye be treated without eye drops?

Yes. While lubricating drops are commonly used, DEWS III emphasises a stepwise approach that may include eyelid hygiene, heat therapy, management of meibomian gland dysfunction, environmental modification, and lifestyle changes such as reducing prolonged screen use. Eye drops often remain part of treatment when symptoms affect comfort or visual quality.

When should I see an optometrist for dry eyes?

Seek professional assessment if symptoms are persistent, worsening, or affecting activities such as reading, screen use, or driving. Ongoing reliance on eye drops without improvement suggests an underlying issue that may require targeted treatment.

Eye-Safe Makeup: Protecting Your Eyes Without Compromising Your Look

Author: Jacqueline Rowe, BSc Chemistry, BOptom. Partner Optometrist, Rose Optometry; New Zealand Eye Research Centre.

Published by the New Zealand Eye Research Centre. General information only — not a substitute for a personalised assessment.

Eye makeup and healthy eyes are not mutually exclusive — but where and how you apply makeup makes a real difference, especially if you have dry, sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses. Here is how to keep your look without compromising your comfort.

The problem with waterline makeup

Lining the waterline (the inner rim of the lid) sits eyeliner directly over the meibomian gland openings — the glands that keep your tears from evaporating. Research using meibography has shown that habitual waterline application is associated with gland blockage and loss. Over years, that can contribute to evaporative dry eye. Applying liner outside the lash line instead is a small change with a real payoff.

Ingredients and old makeup

Avoid waxy, fragranced or glitter products near the lid margin — flakes and particles get into the tear film.
Replace mascara every 3 months; old tubes grow bacteria.
Remove makeup gently every night with a purpose-made cleanser, not just water.

Makeup and contact lenses

Put lenses in before makeup and take them out before removing it, to keep particles off the lens. Choose products labelled suitable for sensitive eyes or lens wearers.

Well-formulated options — and a NZ colleague

Some brands are designed specifically with eye health in mind. We stock eye-conscious cosmetics such as the Eyes Are The Story flake-free mascara and Shades eyeshadow palette for exactly this reason. On the lid-care side, the Elin Eyes range by New Zealand optometrist Adele Jefferies, founder of Illume Eye Care, was formulated to cleanse lids and remove makeup without stripping moisture — developed with reference to the TFOS Lifestyle Report on cosmetics and the ocular surface. See our full lid hygiene range, or learn more at elineyes.co.nz.

Talk to us

If makeup leaves your eyes irritated, we can help you find the culprit and adjust your routine — no need to give up cosmetics altogether. Rose Optometry, backed by the New Zealand Eye Research Centre.

References

Craig JP, Alves M, Wolffsohn JS, et al. TFOS Lifestyle Report Executive Summary. Ocul Surf. 2023;30:240–253.
Ng A, Evans K, North RV, Purslow C. Migration of cosmetic products into the tear film. Eye Contact Lens. 2015;41(5):304–309.

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