Best Eye Drops For Dry Eyes of 2025

Bonnie Salem Avatar
Bonnie Salem
Last Updated: Jan 17, 2025

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Eye drops for dry eyes are a popular choice for those struggling with dry, itchy or irritated eyes. These drops work by lubricating the eyes and providing a soothing effect, making them an effective solution for those with mild to moderate dry eye symptoms. Some formulas also contain ingredients that promote natural tear production, providing long-lasting relief. Eye drops are available in a variety of types, including preservative-free, gel-based, and allergy-specific options. They can be purchased over-the-counter at most pharmacies and drugstores, making them a convenient and accessible solution for those in need of relief.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

iVIZIA Sterile Lubricant Eye Drops Cover #TOP 1
iVIZIA Sterile Lubricant Eye Drops
ftb score rating icon 9.8
TheraTears Extra Dry Eye Therapy Lubricating Eye Drops Cover #TOP 2
TheraTears Extra Dry Eye Therapy Lubricating Eye Drops
ftb score rating icon 9.7
OPTASE Dry Eye Intense Drops - Preservative Free Multi-dose Bottle Cover #TOP 3
OPTASE Dry Eye Intense Drops - Preservative Free Multi-dose Bottle
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Eye Drops For Dry Eyes

iVIZIA Sterile Lubricant Eye Drops

iVIZIA
iVIZIA Sterile Lubricant Eye Drops Cover
iVIZIA Sterile Lubricant Eye Drops for Dry Eyes, Preservative-Free, Moisturizing, Dry Eye Relief, Contact Lens Friendly, 0.33 fl oz Bottle Packaging May Vary

iVIZIA Sterile Lubricant Eye Drops are a moisturizing and preservative-free solution designed for dry eye relief. The unique formulation includes hydrating polymers, moisturizing hyaluronic acid, and trehalose for long-lasting moisture. The patented ABAK bottle allows for easy dispensing drop-by-drop, without streaming, and is contact lens friendly. The bottle is also ergonomic, easy to open, hold, and squeeze.

What We Like
Long-lasting relief
Thicker gel consistency
Easy to use dispenser
Cost-effective
Non-blurring vision
What We Don't Like
Dispensing difficulty
Greasy eye sensation
#TOP 2

TheraTears Extra Dry Eye Therapy Lubricating Eye Drops

TheraTears Extra Dry Eye Therapy Lubricating Eye Drops Cover
TheraTears Extra Dry Eye Therapy Lubricating Eye Drops for Dry Eyes, 0.5 fl oz Bottle, 2 Count(Pack of 1)

TheraTears Extra Dry Eye Therapy Lubricating Eye Drops provide up to 12 hours of hydration and comfort for dry eyes. This one-of-a-kind silky hydration helps to rehydrate, protect against further irritation, and support a natural tear pH level. It contains the 5 vital electrolytes found in natural tears and corrects the salt imbalance that can cause dry eye symptoms. Customers have found this product to be helpful in relieving dry eyes, with some noting that it is more viscous than other brands and lasts longer.

What We Like
Non-irritating formula
Long-lasting moisture
Convenient travel vials
Effective for dry eyes
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Price can be high
#TOP 3

OPTASE Dry Eye Intense Drops - Preservative Free Multi-dose Bottle

Mutidose Bottle
OPTASE Dry Eye Intense Drops - Preservative Free Multi-dose Bottle Cover
Optase Dry Eye Intense Drops - Preservative Free Eye Drops for Long Lasting Relief - Artificial Tears to Relieve Severe Dry Eye Symptoms - Multidose Bottle - Step 3 Hydrate - .33 fl oz, 300 Doses

OPTASE Dry Eye Intense Drops are preservative-free eye drops that are designed to moisturize, protect, and hydrate your eyes to improve tear quality. Its long-lasting formulation provides relief from moderate to severe dry eye symptoms and post-operative symptoms. The advanced multi-use drop bottle maintains sterility for up to 3 months without preservatives, making it convenient for use while on the go. OPTASE is recommended by doctors for tackling the cause and symptoms of Dry Eyes, Blepharitis, and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).

What We Like
No preservatives
Improves clarity of vision
Reduces mucous thickness
Effective for dry eyes
Long-lasting hydration
What We Don't Like
Difficulty dispensing first drop
Complex bottle design
#TOP 4

TheraTears Dry Eye Therapy Lubricating Eye Drops

420689
TheraTears Dry Eye Therapy Lubricating Eye Drops Cover
TheraTears Dry Eye Therapy Lubricating Eye Drops for Dry Eyes, Preservative Free eye drops, 30 Single-Use Vials

TheraTears Dry Eye Therapy Lubricant Eye Drops, Preservative Free, provide immediate, long-lasting relief of dry eye symptoms. Created by an ophthalmologist after 18 years of research, these drops contain the 5 vital electrolytes found in natural tears and are preservative free for sensitive eyes. Customers praise the product for its soothing effects and its ability to provide relief from dry eye symptoms. However, some customers have noted that the single-use vials can be sharp and poke the eye if not handled carefully.

What We Like
Preservative-free ingredients
Non-irritating and soothing
Effective for dry eyes
Convenient travel size
Moisturizing formula
What We Don't Like
Higher price point
#TOP 5

Systane Hydration Multi-Dose Eye Drops

SUVELAM
Systane Hydration Multi-Dose Eye Drops Cover
Systane Hydration Multi-Dose Preservative-Free Eye Drops Dry Eye Relief Twin Pack (2x10ml)

Systane Hydration eye drops provide long-lasting relief for dry eyes with advanced hydration from hyaluronate. These preservative-free drops are safe for use with all contact lenses and extra moisturizing for sensitive eyes. Clinically proven to protect and soothe dry eye symptoms.

What We Like
Preservative-free formula
Long-lasting hydration
User-friendly multi-dose design
Soothing and gentle
Effective for chronic dry eyes
What We Don't Like
Minor fluid waste
Dropper shape can be tricky
#TOP 6

Visine Dry Eye Relief Drops

074300010670
Visine Dry Eye Relief Drops Cover
Visine Dry Eye Relief Lubricant Eye Drops with Polyethylene Glycol 400 to Moisturize and Soothe Irritated, Gritty and Dry Eyes, Designed to Work Like Real Tears, 0.5 fl. oz

Visine Dry Eye Drops are designed to provide soothing relief for dry, gritty, and irritated eyes. These eye drops mimic the natural moisture of real tears, helping to alleviate burning sensations caused by prolonged screen time or environmental factors. With polyethylene glycol 400 and ten ingredients similar to those in your own tears, they effectively lubricate and protect your eyes. The compact 0.5-fluid ounce bottle makes it easy to carry, allowing you to find relief anytime, anywhere, even while on the go.

What We Like
Effective for hours
No burning or stinging
Good for dry eyes
Affordable alternative
Convenient subscription option
What We Don't Like
Not the best for everyone
Preference for other brands
#TOP 7

Ocusan Eye Drops for Dry Eyes

1665344
Ocusan Eye Drops for Dry Eyes Cover
Ocusan Eye Drops for Dry Eyes - Lubricating Artificial Tears to Relieve Dry Eyes, with 2 Moisturizers 0.5 FL OZ

Ocusan Dry Eye Drops provide effective relief for irritated, dry eyes with their advanced formula containing two active moisturizers. You can enjoy instant comfort without the sting or burn often associated with other eye drops. These drops are perfect for combating dryness caused by long hours in front of screens or wearing contact lenses. They also help restore your eyes' natural moisture when exposed to harsh environmental factors like wind and dust. Simply apply one or two drops whenever you need a refreshing boost to keep your eyes feeling renewed throughout the day.

What We Like
Effective for dry eye irritation
Price lower than name brands
Works as well as others
Good value for the price
What We Don't Like
Doesn't last all day
Not a complete solution
#TOP 8

Ocusoft Retaine MGD Ophthalmic Emulsion

015718917304
Ocusoft Retaine MGD Ophthalmic Emulsion Cover
OCuSOFT Retaine MGD Ophthalmic Emulsion - Complete Dry Eye Relief - Soothes Red & Irritated Eyes - 30 Count Preservative-Free Single-Use Containers - 0.01 Fl Oz

Ocusoft Retaine MGD Ophthalmic Emulsion is a preservative-free solution that moisturizes, lubricates, and protects moderate to severe dry eyes. This product utilizes Nova orb technology that effectively delivers ingredients through electrostatic attraction, which provides long-lasting relief. The emulsion's hypo tonicity adds moisture by lowering the salt concentration of tears, while the lipid component lubricates and protects the surface of the eye.

What We Like
Long-lasting relief
Soothing and non-stinging
Easy to carry individual vials
Recommended by specialists
Made in the USA
What We Don't Like
Shipping issues reported
Not available in some regions
#TOP 9

Oasis TEARS Plus Lubricant Eye Drops, 30 Count (Pack of 2)

Ayestar
Oasis TEARS Plus Lubricant Eye Drops, 30 Count (Pack of 2) Cover
Oasis TEARS PLUS Lubricant Eye Drops Relief For Dry Eyes, 30 Count Box Sterile Disposable Containers (Pack of 2)

This Oasis TEARS Plus Lubricant Eye Drops come in 30 count sterile disposable containers and is recommended for moderate to severe dry eye symptoms. It can be used during day or night and is preservative-free, providing safe and long-lasting relief for dry eyes. This product falls under the category of Dry Eye Relief Products.

What We Like
Long-lasting moisture
Recommended by professionals
Provides quick relief
Convenient individual packaging
Less expensive than alternatives
What We Don't Like
Momentary blurred vision
Higher price point
#TOP 10

TheraTears Extra Dry Eye Therapy Lubricant Eye Drops

TheraTears Extra Dry Eye Therapy Lubricant Eye Drops Cover
TheraTears Extra Dry Eye Therapy Lubricant Eye Drops Preservative Free 30ct, 30 Count

TheraTears Extra Dry Eye Therapy Lubricant Eye Drops provide extraordinary relief for dry eyes by rehydrating, protecting against further irritation, and supporting a natural tear pH level. These lubricating eye drops contain the 5 vital electrolytes found in natural tears, and are preservative-free for sensitive eyes. They come in a convenient, single-use vials sealed in foil pouches to ensure freshness, and are recommended by eye doctors. TheraTears is perfect for at home and on the go, and is part of the TheraTears Dry Eye Therapy line for more complete dry eye symptom relief.

What We Like
Soothing and long-lasting relief
Effective for dry eye conditions
Convenient single-use packaging
Recommended by eye care professionals
Good for contact lens wearers
What We Don't Like
Hard to find in stores
Not widely advertised
Buying Guide Image

Selecting the Right Eye Drops For Dry Eyes

Introduction

Dry eyes can be a very uncomfortable and irritating condition, but the good news is that there are a lot of options available to bring relief. Eye drops are one of the most popular treatments for dry eyes, and choosing the right eye drops for your particular condition can be the difference between finding relief and continued discomfort.

Types of Eye Drops

When it comes to eye drops, there are three primary types to choose from: artificial tears, lubricating drops, and preservative-free drops. Depending on the severity of your dry eyes, you may want to consider any or all of these.

Artificial Tears

Artificial tears are the most basic type of eye drops that are available, and are a good choice for mild cases of dry eyes. They are designed to mimic the natural composition of tears, and can help to moisturize the eyes and prevent further irritation.

Lubricating Drops

If you have more severe dry eye symptoms, you may want to consider lubricating drops. These types of drops are thicker than artificial tears and are designed to bring more relief to dry eyes. They can help to keep the eyes moist for a longer period of time, and can be used multiple times throughout the day as needed.

Preservative-Free Drops

Preservative-free drops are ideal for those with very sensitive eyes, as they lack preservatives that can cause irritation. These drops are typically thicker than other types of drops, and they can help to keep the eyes lubricated for longer periods of time.

Other Considerations

When choosing the best eye drops for dry eyes, there are a few other considerations to keep in mind. First, look for drops that don’t contain any fragrances or dyes that can irritate your eyes. Second, keep an eye out for drops that have been specially formulated for contact lens wearers, as these can help to prevent irritation and discomfort. Finally, if you have any allergies, be sure to check the ingredients of the drops carefully to make sure they won’t cause any reactions.

Conclusion

Finding the right eye drops for your dry eyes can be a difficult task, but with a bit of research and trial-and-error, you can find the perfect pair of drops to bring you the relief you need. Consider the type of drops that best suit your needs, and be sure to look for drops without fragrances, dyes, and preservatives that can cause irritation. With the right eye drops, you can get back to enjoying life without the discomfort of dry eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use lubricating eye drops everyday?

While it is generally safe to use lubricating eye drops every day, eye doctors often recommend avoiding eye drops with preservatives more than four times a day. Preservative-free eye drops are usually recommended for people with moderate to severe dry eye who use artificial tears frequently.

2. What eye drops do optometrists use?

During eye examinations, optometrists may use eye drops containing Hydroxyamphetamine and Tropicamide. These drops are used to dilate the pupils and reduce the eye's ability to adjust for near vision. They allow optometrists to better examine the eye.

3. How can I hydrate my dry eyes?

To hydrate dry eyes, you can try artificial tears or lubricating eye drops. Limiting screen time, using warm compresses, massaging the eyelids, practicing good eye hygiene, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and using a humidifier can also help alleviate dry eye symptoms.

4. Can you use lubricating eye drops too often?

Using lubricating eye drops excessively can wash away your natural tears and moisturizers that protect your eyes. While artificial tears provide temporary relief, overusing them can lead to dependence and potentially worsen dry eye symptoms. It is best to follow the recommended usage guidelines provided by your eye doctor.

5. What are the disadvantages of lubricant eye drops?

Some disadvantages of lubricant eye drops may include blurred vision, eye redness or discomfort, increased light sensitivity, matting or stickiness of eyelashes, swelling of eyelids, and watering of eyes. If you experience any of these side effects, it is advisable to consult with your eye doctor.

6. Why do optometrists not recommend Visine?

Optometrists do not recommend using Visine regularly or for extended periods. Although Visine can provide temporary relief for red eyes, using it consistently can lead to rebound redness, where the eyes become persistently red and worsen over time. It is best to consult with an eye doctor for appropriate treatment options.

Editor's Notes

During our eye drops for dry eye research, we found 24 eye drops for dry eye products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 251,458 customer reviews through our big data system to write the eye drops for dry eyes list. We found that most customers choose eye drops for dry eyes with an average price of $15.64.

The eye drops for dry eyes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of eye drops for dry eyes, including iVIZIA, TheraTears, Optase, Systane, Visine. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bonnie Salem Avatar

Bonnie Salem is a stay-at-home mother with two-year-old twins and has spent almost half of her life surrounded by baby products. As a mother and a professional copywriter, she has an insightful and unique eye for researching products suitable for infants. Bonnie Salem is an expert in health and nutrition who lives with her family in New Jersey. She has over 15 years of working experience in an institute of medicine after graduating from the University of Toronto. She is highly interested in personal health and wellness.

Eye Drops For Dry Eyes Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand iVIZIA TheraTears Optase TheraTears Systane Visine Ocusan OCuSOFT Oasis TheraTears
Special Feature clinically_proven clinically_proven Long Lasting Long Lasting - clinically_proven - - preservative free clinically_proven
Product Benefits Eye Care Eye Care Eye Health,Hydrating Eye - Eye Care - - Dry Eye,Relief For Dry Eyes Eye Care
Item Weight 0.3 Ounces 1.6 ounces 0.33 Ounces 2.4 Ounces - 0.5 Ounces - - - 0.6 Ounces
Item dimensions L x W x H - 2.24 x 1.26 x 4.33 inches 1.28 x 1.38 x 3.58 inches 4 x 4 x 6 inches - 3.7 x 1.8 x 1.1 inches - - 7 x 6 x 1.5 inches 2.95 x 2.17 x 4.72 inches
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.6
ftb score rating icon 8.4
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