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.

Collection: Systane Eye Drops NZ

Systane eye drops, dispensed by optometrists

Systane is the most-used dry eye drop range in New Zealand, and the one people most often get wrong. There are six variants and they are not interchangeable. Buying the wrong one is the usual reason people conclude that "drops don't work for me".

We're an optometrist-owned practice in Hamilton. Here's the honest guide.

Which Systane is actually right for you?

Systane Ultra — the general-purpose one. Mild, intermittent dryness. Start here if you're unsure.
Systane Complete — for dryness with an oil-layer (evaporative) component, which is most dry eye. Broader coverage than Ultra.
Systane Hydration UD — preservative-free single vials. If you're dosing more than four times a day, or you have a sensitive ocular surface, you should be on this. Preservatives at high frequency make things worse, not better.
Systane Balance — specifically for meibomian gland dysfunction, where the oil glands in the lid margin aren't working.
Systane Gel Drops — thicker. Best at night; it will blur your vision for a minute or two.
Systane Lid Wipes — not a drop. For lid margin hygiene, usually alongside a drop rather than instead of one.

The bit the supermarket won't tell you

If you're using drops several times a day and still uncomfortable, the drop probably isn't the problem — the diagnosis is. Persistent dry eye is usually a lid or oil-gland issue, and no amount of lubricant fixes it. That's worth an appointment, not another bottle.

All Systane products in stock at Rose Optometry, Hamilton. Free NZ shipping over $100.