Artificial tears

Artificial tears are eye drops that mimic the composition of natural tears. Your tear film consists of three layers: an oily outer layer, a watery middle layer and a mucous layer on the inside. Together, these layers ensure a smooth eye surface and protect your cornea from drying out and irritation.

Artificial tears supplement natural tears and are designed to moisturise the surface of the eye. They often contain substances such as hyaluronic acid, glycerol, carbomer or cellulose derivatives, which help the moisture stay on the eye for longer. Some artificial tears are thin and watery, whilst others are thicker and last longer.

Artificial tears are available with and without preservatives. Preservative-free drops come in disposable vials or multi-dose vials with a special filter system, and are suitable for more frequent use or for sensitive eyes. Artificial tears containing a preservative are usually supplied in a standard bottle and are suitable for occasional use.

You can buy artificial tears over the counter at chemists, pharmacies or online. They are not a medicine and do not treat the cause of dry eyes, but are intended to provide comfort by moisturising and rinsing the surface of the eye.

When are artificial tears used?

Artificial tears are often used to relieve a dry, burning, itchy or gritty sensation in the eyes. This can be caused by prolonged screen time, air conditioning, wind, smoke, ageing, hormonal changes or wearing contact lenses. Artificial tears can also help to rinse and moisturise the surface of the eye in cases of hay fever or other forms of eye irritation.

If you have persistent or severe symptoms, or if you are unsure of the cause, please have them assessed by your optician, optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Artificial tears and contact lenses

Not all artificial tears are suitable for use whilst wearing contact lenses. Thick, gel-like drops or those containing certain preservatives can build up on your lenses or damage the lens material. Choose artificial tears that are explicitly suitable for use with contact lenses, or remove your lenses briefly whilst applying the drops.

For comfort whilst wearing lenses, you can also use moisturising eye drops specially developed for lens wearers. These are compatible with soft and hard lenses and help to moisturise the surface of the eye.

How often can you use artificial tears?

You can use preservative-free artificial tears as often as you like, as they do not contain any substances that could irritate the surface of the eye with frequent use. It is best not to use artificial tears containing preservatives more than four to six times a day, unless your optician or ophthalmologist advises otherwise.

Always follow the instructions for use on the packaging. If you feel you need to use eye drops very frequently, discuss this with your optician or ophthalmologist.

Storage and shelf life

Artificial tears in single-use vials are intended for one-off use and should be discarded once opened. Multidose bottles can usually be used for several weeks to months after opening, depending on the system and whether they contain a preservative. Check the instructions for use and note the opening date on the bottle.

Store artificial tears at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, and do not touch the tip of the bottle with your fingers or your eye to prevent contamination.