Eye Care

Relief for dry, gritty, itchy and tired eyes: preservative-free lubricants from Hylo, Thealoz Duo, Systane and Artelac, allergy drops for hay fever, Optrex for everyday soothing and Blephaclean for eyelid care. Pharmacist advice on choosing the right drop.

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Choosing eye drops

Dry, gritty or tired eyes

Screen time, central heating, contact lenses and age all reduce tear quality. A hyaluronic acid lubricant such as Hylo-Tear (mild) or Hylo-Forte (more severe) restores the tear film and can be used as often as needed. Thealoz Duo adds trehalose to protect the surface and suits very dry eyes. Systane Ultra and Artelac are good alternatives. For night-time, Artelac Nighttime Gel lasts until morning. Preservative-free is important if you use drops more than four times a day or wear contact lenses.

Itchy, watery allergy eyes

Antihistamine drops such as Anti-Hist (antazoline) or sodium cromoglicate (Vividrin) work within minutes during hay fever season. Use them regularly through the season rather than only when symptoms peak. Cold compresses and keeping windows closed in the morning help.

Sore, crusty eyelids

Blepharitis causes gritty, red lid margins. Blephaclean wipes used daily remove the debris and oil that cause it; a warm compress first improves results. It takes two to four weeks to settle and needs ongoing maintenance.

Red eyes

Optrex Multi Action Eye Wash soothes irritated eyes; TheraTears 5 in 1 targets redness. Redness that comes with pain, light sensitivity, reduced vision or a sticky yellow discharge needs a pharmacist or GP the same day, as it may be infection or something more serious.

Contact lens wearers

Use only drops labelled suitable for contact lenses, which means preservative-free. Hylo and Systane Ultra are fine; antihistamine drops are usually not.

How to use drops: wash hands, tilt head back, pull the lower lid down, drop into the pocket, close the eye for a minute and press the inner corner gently. Wait five minutes between different drops.

Common questions about eye care

What are the best eye drops for dry eyes?

Hylo-Forte for moderate to severe dryness and Hylo-Tear for mild symptoms are the most recommended preservative-free hyaluronic acid drops. Thealoz Duo and Systane Ultra are good alternatives. Use them regularly rather than only when eyes feel bad.

Can I use eye drops with contact lenses?

Only preservative-free drops labelled for contact lens use, such as Hylo-Tear, Hylo-Forte and Systane Ultra Preservative-Free. Remove lenses before using medicated or allergy drops unless the pack says otherwise.

How often can I use dry eye drops?

Preservative-free lubricants can be used as often as needed, even hourly. Drops with preservatives should be limited to four times a day. If you need drops constantly, see an optician to check the cause.

How do I treat blepharitis?

A warm compress for five minutes, then a Blephaclean wipe along the lid margins, once or twice a day. Expect improvement over two to four weeks, then continue a few times a week to keep it away.

Written and reviewed by the pharmacist team at Laois Pharmacy, Portlaoise. General information only, not a substitute for advice about your own health. Ask us in store or on WhatsApp.