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.

Skip to content

Your cart is empty

Continue shopping

All products

Shop our range of glasses and accessories.

All products

Your cart

Loading...

Order special instructions

Estimated total

$0.00 NZD

Tax included. Shipping and discounts calculated at checkout.

Products
Brands
About
Contact
Eye Care Guides

Country/region

AUD $ | Australia
EUR € | Austria
EUR € | Belgium
CAD $ | Canada
CZK Kč | Czechia
DKK kr. | Denmark
EUR € | Finland
EUR € | France
EUR € | Germany
HKD $ | Hong Kong SAR
EUR € | Ireland
ILS ₪ | Israel
EUR € | Italy
JPY ¥ | Japan
MYR RM | Malaysia
EUR € | Netherlands
NZD $ | New Zealand
NZD $ | Norway
PLN zł | Poland
EUR € | Portugal
SGD $ | Singapore
KRW ₩ | South Korea
EUR € | Spain
SEK kr | Sweden
CHF CHF | Switzerland
AED د.إ | United Arab Emirates
GBP £ | United Kingdom
USD $ | United States

Twitter
Facebook
Instagram

Products
Brands
About
Contact
Eye Care Guides

Search

Cart

Collection: L.A. Eyeworks

Filter:

Brand

0 selected

Reset

Brand

L.A. Eyeworks (2 products)

L.A. Eyeworks (2 products)

Type

0 selected

Reset

Type

Frames (2 products)

Frames (2 products)

Availability

0 selected

Reset

Availability

In stock (2 products)
Out of stock (0 products)

In stock (2 products)
Out of stock (0 products)

Price

The highest price is $795.00

Reset

$

From

$

To

Clear all

Sort by:

2 products

Filter and sort Filter

Filter and sort

Filter

2 products

Brand

L.A. Eyeworks (2 products)

Clear

Type

Frames (2 products)

Clear

Availability

In stock (2 products)
Out of stock (0 products)

Clear

Price

The highest price is $795.00

$

From

$

To

Clear

Sort by:

Clear all

2 products

✅ Trusted Seller

L.A Eyeworks - Palapa

L.A Eyeworks - Palapa

Vendor:
L.A. Eyeworks

Regular price $795.00 NZD

Regular price Sale price $795.00 NZD
Unit price per
✅ Trusted Seller

L.A. Eyeworks - Lean-To

Sale

L.A. Eyeworks - Lean-To

Vendor:
L.A. Eyeworks

Regular price $474.50 NZD

Regular price ~~$949.00 NZD~~ Sale price $474.50 NZD
Unit price per

Sale

Quick links

Shop all
About
Contact

Our practice

Hamilton’s leading eye care specialists, providing a better care experience in the Waikato since 1969.

Facebook
Instagram
Twitter

Subscribe to our emails

Email

Country/region

AUD $ | Australia
EUR € | Austria
EUR € | Belgium
CAD $ | Canada
CZK Kč | Czechia
DKK kr. | Denmark
EUR € | Finland
EUR € | France
EUR € | Germany
HKD $ | Hong Kong SAR
EUR € | Ireland
ILS ₪ | Israel
EUR € | Italy
JPY ¥ | Japan
MYR RM | Malaysia
EUR € | Netherlands
NZD $ | New Zealand
NZD $ | Norway
PLN zł | Poland
EUR € | Portugal
SGD $ | Singapore
KRW ₩ | South Korea
EUR € | Spain
SEK kr | Sweden
CHF CHF | Switzerland
AED د.إ | United Arab Emirates
GBP £ | United Kingdom
USD $ | United States

Payment methods

Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
Opens in a new window.

Country/region

Collection: L.A. Eyeworks

Filter and sort

Filter

L.A Eyeworks - Palapa

L.A Eyeworks - Palapa

L.A. Eyeworks - Lean-To

L.A. Eyeworks - Lean-To