How to Choose the Best Eye Drops—and What to Avoid, Accor...

What’s Happening

Listen up: Here’s what to look for (and steer clear of!

Eye drops can provide tremendous itch relief, especially if your eyeballs are prone to dryness from cold, low-humidity winter air; age; or screen time. But not all eye soothers are the same, and after worrisome headlines about dozens of recalls of drops (some of which had the potential to leave people blind! (shocking, we know)

) in recent years, you may be feeling more cautious in the eye care aisle.

The Details

, an assistant professor at Nova Southeastern University Florida’s College of Optometry, s the info you need to pick wisely: Give ’em a shot: With general dryness, OTC options such as artificial tears and eye lubrication drops are OK to use now and then, but if you’re using them multiple times a day, it’s important to see a doctor for a full eye exam, advises the American Academy of Ophthalmology. A doctor can figure out your specific variety of dry eye disease and indicate what drops will best address it.

If you have allergies, use anti-allergy drops specifically. Green says you’ll want a brand such as Pataday, Zaditor, or Alaway (or a store-brand equivalent) that contains an antihistamine.

Why This Matters

“These can be highly effective, since they’re similar to oral antihistamine medications, but for your eyes,” he explains. “Many people are able to successfully manage their symptoms with these alone. ” Steer clear of: Homeopathic eye drops Many only lubricate the eyes and don’t treat the itchiness or the cause of the irritation, and some contain ingredients that may irritate eyes and actually make the itchiness worse, says Green.

Medical professionals are taking note of this development.

Key Takeaways

• Eye drops that claim to treat styes “OTC stye eye drops don’t actually treat styes and so should not be used,” says Green.
• A better option: If a heated eye mask or a warm compress doesn’t yield results after 48 hours, head to your doctor’s office to be evaluated fully.
• Redness-reducing drops These don’t solve the underlying issue, so use them only if advised .

The Bottom Line

A better option: If a heated eye mask or a warm compress doesn’t yield results after 48 hours, head to your doctor’s office to be evaluated fully. Redness-reducing drops These don’t solve the underlying issue, so use them only if advised .

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