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.

The Complete Guide to Contact Lens Solutions in NZ

Choosing the right contact lens solution is essential for safe lens wear, long-term eye health, and comfort. In New Zealand, contact lens wearers use a variety of cleaning systems depending on whether they wear soft lenses, rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, or scleral lenses.

This guide explains the different types of contact lens solutions available in NZ, how they work, and which system is most appropriate for your lenses.

Types of Contact Lens Solutions

Multipurpose Contact Lens Solutions

Multipurpose solutions are designed primarily for soft contact lenses. They clean, disinfect, rinse and store lenses in one solution. These are commonly used for daily disposable and monthly soft lenses.

Hydrogen Peroxide Lens Care Systems

Hydrogen peroxide systems provide deep cleaning and powerful disinfection. They must be fully neutralised before insertion. These systems are often recommended for rigid and scleral lens wearers or those prone to sensitivity.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Cleaning Systems

Rigid lenses require specialised cleaning solutions to remove deposits and maintain surface wettability. These systems typically include a cleaner and conditioning solution.

Preservative-Free Saline for Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses must be filled with sterile, preservative-free saline before insertion. Using the wrong saline can cause irritation or toxicity to the ocular surface. In some cases we can recommend other drops like Theratears Day, Hylo-Forte and Lacrifresh. Please only use this under direction of your Optometrist or eye care professional.

How to Choose the Right Contact Lens Solution

The correct solution depends on:

The type of lens you wear
Your ocular surface health
History of dry eye or sensitivity
Your cleaning compliance routine

If you wear scleral or RGP lenses, specialised rigid lens care systems are strongly recommended over generic multipurpose soft lens solutions.

Common Questions About Contact Lens Solutions

Can I use a multipurpose solution for rigid lenses?

No. Rigid lenses require specific cleaning and conditioning systems designed for gas permeable materials. Although some multipurpose solutions can be used under the advice of your optometrist - if you are unsure please call us to ask.

Are peroxide systems better for sensitive eyes?

Hydrogen peroxide systems can reduce preservative exposure and are often beneficial for patients with sensitivity or dry eye symptoms. These are also excellent for those that suffer from ocular allergy, which we have higher rates of in Hamilton compared with the rest of the country.

What saline should I use for scleral lenses?

Only sterile, preservative-free saline should be used to fill scleral lenses before insertion. Avizor conveniently makes unit dose boxes which are great for a weekend away and many people do not know about these - so it pays to ask us about your options for travelling with contact lenses.

Buy Contact Lens Solutions Online in NZ

Rose Optometry stocks contact lens solutions in NZ including rigid contact lens solutions, peroxide systems and preservative-free saline suitable for scleral lenses.

Written by Jagrut Lallu
Optometrist | Specialty Contact Lenses & Myopia Management
Rose Optometry, Hamilton NZ

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