iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
For mild dry-eye symptoms, start with an over-the-counter product labeled as a lubricant or artificial tear for temporary relief of dryness. If you need drops more than six times a day, or you are allergic to preservatives, the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) advises choosing preservative-free tears. Gels and ointments are other OTC lubrication formats; no single format is right for everyone.
What artificial tears can—and cannot—do
Dry eye can occur when your eyes do not make enough tears or when tears do not work correctly. Symptoms may include scratchiness, burning, redness, light sensitivity, and blurry vision. The National Eye Institute (NEI) identifies OTC artificial tears as the most common treatment for mild dry eye. They lubricate the eye and provide temporary relief; they do not establish the cause of symptoms or guarantee that a persistent problem is resolved.
For more serious dry eye, a clinician may recommend prescription medicines or other approaches. If symptoms are ongoing or troublesome, do not rely on OTC drops as a substitute for an eye-care assessment.
How to choose a lubricant
Check the product identity and directions
Choose a product whose label identifies it as an ophthalmic lubricant or artificial tear and describes temporary relief of dryness or irritation due to dryness. FDA’s OTC ophthalmic lubricant monograph (M018) provides examples of permitted labeling; it is regulatory context, not a replacement for the directions and warnings on the specific product you buy. Follow that product’s dosing instructions and do not assume that all eye drops are lubricants.
#1 Best Overall
- ORIGINAL STRENGTH: Provides temporary relief for mild, occasional dry eye symptoms
- FAST ACTING: Instantly lubricates and moisturizes
- EASY TO USE: Apply 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) as needed
- SOOTHING: Safe to use as often as needed
- VALUE SIZE: Two convenient multidose bottles
Match preservative status to how often you use it
Preservatives help prevent microbial contamination, support product safety, and extend shelf life, particularly in multidose containers. They are not inherently unsafe for everyone. However, the AAO says to use preservative-free tears if you use artificial tears more than six times a day or are allergic to preservatives, because preservatives may begin to irritate the eyes.
Use frequency as a reason to check the label and discuss your routine with an eye-care professional, rather than increasing use beyond the product’s directions. If you are unsure whether irritation is related to the drops or the underlying problem, seek professional advice.
Rank #2
- DRY EYE RELIEF: SYSTANE ULTRA Lubricating Eye Drops help deliver extended protection and high-performance dry eye symptom relief that lasts
- EXTENDED PROTECTION: Get extended protection for relief from dry eyes that lasts with SYSTANE ULTRA Lubricant Eye Drops
- HIGH PERFORMANCE RELIEF: SYSTANE lubricant eye drops provide high-performance, long-lasting dry eye relief. Fits into your daily eye care routine
- FAST ACTING HYDRATION: Moisture-rich lubricant eye drops provide fast-acting hydration at home, work, while traveling, or in dry indoor air
- LUBRICATED & REFRESHED FEEL: Helps your eyes feel lubricated and refreshed with these eye drops for dry eyes
Choose a format you can use as directed
Artificial-tear drops are the main OTC option for mild symptoms. Lubricating gels and ointments are also available. The NEI names these formats but does not establish a universal winner or a product-specific advantage for one over another. Compare the label, intended use, and instructions, and ask an eye-care professional if you are uncertain which format suits your symptoms.
Recommended Free Tools
Use eye drops without contaminating them
FDA says any drug used in the eyes must be sterile to reduce infection risk. Keep the bottle tip clean and follow these handling precautions:
Rank #3
- DRY EYE RELIEF: SYSTANE ULTRA Lubricating Eye Drops help deliver extended protection and high-performance dry eye symptom relief that lasts
- EXTENDED PROTECTION: Get extended protection for relief from dry eyes that lasts with SYSTANE ULTRA Lubricant Eye Drops
- HIGH PERFORMANCE RELIEF: SYSTANE lubricant eye drops provide high-performance, long-lasting dry eye relief. Fits into your daily eye care routine
- FAST ACTING HYDRATION: Moisture-rich lubricant eye drops provide fast-acting hydration at home, work, while traveling, or in dry indoor air
- LUBRICATED & REFRESHED FEEL: Helps your eyes feel lubricated and refreshed with these eye drops for dry eyes
- Wash your hands before use.
- Do not let the dropper tip touch your eye, hands, clothing, or another surface.
- Do not use a solution that has changed color or become cloudy; FDA’s lubricant-labeling monograph also gives this warning.
- Stop using the product and seek advice if concerning symptoms develop.
For a named product or lot, check FDA alerts for current safety notices before relying on older recall information.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When to contact an eye-care professional
Arrange an eye-care assessment if symptoms persist, worsen, interfere with daily activities, or are not relieved by OTC lubricating drops. Significant redness, eye pain, discharge, or vision changes also warrant prompt professional attention. FDA labeling for OTC ophthalmic lubricants advises stopping use and consulting a doctor for eye pain, vision changes, continued redness or irritation, or symptoms that worsen or persist. Do not treat those signs by simply switching to another OTC product.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Triple-Action Dry Eye Relief: Systane PRO Preservative Free Lubricant Eye Drops hydrate, restore, and protect dry eyes for up to 12 hours of relief. This triple-action formula provides rapid, continued relief from ocular discomfort due to environmental causes such as wind and sun
- Long-Lasting Hydration: Provides temporary relief from burning and irritation due to dryness of the eye. Systane PRO with Hyaluronate lubricating eye drops are formulated to support extended hydration for dry eye relief
- Tear Evaporation Protection: Hydrating eye drops helps lock in moisture and reduce tear evaporation
- Preservative-Free Formula: The gentle, preservative-free formula is suitable for sensitive eyes and helps prevent further dryness and irritation. It offers multi-symptom dry eye relief and may be used with soft contact lenses, but it is not a rewetting drop
- Trusted Brand, Convenient Design: Systane is a trusted name in eye care, recommended by eye care professionals for reliable dry eye relief. The multi-dose easy-application bottle offers on-the-go hydration, keeping eyes refreshed and moisturized wherever your day takes you
Rank #4
- LASTING RELIEF: Original strength lubricating formula soothes mild symptoms of eye dryness
- PRESERVATIVE-FREE: Made with zero preservatives to relieve mild symptoms of dry eyes including burning, irritation, and discomfort
- FAST ACTING: Instantly moisturizes and lubricates
- RELIABLE PROTECTION: Active ingredients provide lasting lubrication for dry eyes
- GENTLE: Safe to use as often as needed. Great for dry, sensitive eyes
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
