14 best artificial tears

Artificial tears are a common over-the-counter eye care product designed to lubricate and moisten the eyes. They are primarily used to relieve dryness and discomfort associated with various eye conditions, such as dry eye syndrome, computer vision syndrome, or eye irritation caused by environmental factors like wind, smoke, or air conditioning.

Here are some key points about artificial tears:

  1. Lubrication: Artificial tears mimic the natural composition of tears and provide a layer of moisture over the surface of the eye. This helps alleviate dryness, irritation, and the sensation of grittiness in the eyes.

  2. Ingredients: Artificial tears typically contain a combination of ingredients such as water, electrolytes (e.g., sodium chloride), viscosity agents (e.g., carboxymethylcellulose), and preservatives. Some artificial tears are preservative-free, which may be recommended for individuals with sensitive eyes.

  3. Types: There are various types of artificial tears available, including gel-based tears for more severe dryness, thin and watery drops for mild dryness, and specialized formulations for specific conditions like allergies.

  4. Usage: Artificial tears are applied directly to the eyes by instilling a few drops in each eye as needed. The frequency of use depends on the severity of dryness and the type of product.It's essential to follow the instructions provided on the product label or by a healthcare professional.

  5. Benefits: Artificial tears can help relieve dry eye symptoms, reduce redness, improve visual comfort, and protect the ocular surface from damage caused by prolonged dryness.

  6. Precautions: Some individuals may be allergic to specific ingredients in artificial tears. It's important to consult with an eye doctor or pharmacist if you experience any adverse reactions. Additionally, preservatives in some products can cause irritation in certain individuals, so preservative-free options may be recommended in such cases.

  7. Contact Lenses: Some artificial tears are compatible with contact lenses and can be used to alleviate discomfort associated with contact lens wear. However, it's crucial to choose products specifically designed for contact lens compatibility.

  8. Long-Term Management: While artificial tears provide temporary relief, they may not address the underlying causes of chronic dry eye. If you experience persistent or severe dry eye symptoms, it's advisable to consult an eye care professional for a comprehensive evaluation and potential treatment options.

Artificial tears are readily available in pharmacies and drugstores, and they can be a helpful part of maintaining eye health and comfort. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it's essential to seek professional medical advice for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best artificial tears on the market
  

Gericare- Artificial lubricating Tears Dry Eye relief 0.5 OZ (PACK OF 3)

GeriCare

Based on 449 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Gericare Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops, 15 mL Per Bottle

  • GeriCare
  • 357896184056
  • Geri-Care

User questions & answers

Question: Where is it made
Answer: Geri-Care claims that all their products are America made.
Question: Why the child proof cap
Answer: Child proof cap it would seem.
Question: are these artificial tears products habit forming so that you have to use them all the time for your eyes to feel right
Answer: That's a good question, but I would say no. I only use them when I wake up in the middle of the night with dry eyes. I feel like these drops are the most "natural", as in the least amount of chemicals so I wouldn't feel afraid to use them as much as I need.
Question: what is the active ingredient
Answer: The Active ingredients are: Glycerin 0.2%, Hypromellose 0.2%, and Polyethylene glycol 400 1%. Hope this was helpful! Please let us know if you have any additional questions. Thank you & Kindest Regards,Chinook Healthcare

Rite Aid Pharmacy Artificial Tears, Sterile, 0.5 fl oz (15 ml)

Rite Aid

Based on 188 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Dry eye formula. Lubricant eye drops. Fast relief from age-related dry eyes. Replenishes tears. Refreshes eyes.

Refresh Tears Lubricant Eye Drops, 0.5 Fl Oz (2 Count)

Refresh

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Long-lasting relief plus protection. Patented formula with Purite. No. 1 doctor recommended eye drop brand. For mild-to-moderate dry eye. Refresh Tears Lubricant Eye Drops restores the moisture your eyes crave with a special formula that has many of the same healthy qualities as your won natural tears. What Can Cause Dry Eye? Heating and air conditioning; Computer use and reading; Wind and sun; Certain medications; Natural aging process.Instructions-Directions- Instill 1 or 2 drops in the affected eye(s) as needed.

  • These eye drops can also help relieve natural dryness, or dryness resulting from environmental factors like allergies, smoke, wind or sun exposure.
  • The eye drops are available in the convenient two-pack of 0.5 Oz bottles.
  • This fast-acting and long-lasting formula is safe to use anytime and anywhere

User questions & answers

Question: Where is this made
Answer: made in usa
Question: Is this a package of one bottle of 30ml, or is it 2 bottles of 15ml each
Answer: The description said "Economy Size, 1 Fluid Ounce (30 ml)" leading me to believe that I was purchasing a single bottle containing 30 ml. What I received was 2 bottles containing 15 ml each. Not what I expected.
Question: My doctor wants me to use an eye drop without preservatives. she recommended refresh plus. is this similar
Answer: Yes it is. Although I would recommend you the optive one if you have very dry eyes.
Question: Title is for one bottle, picture is for two. Which is it
Answer: There is a glitch in the Amazon imaging software.When a buyer clicks into the item to view the listing the picture shows a photo with a box containg 1 bottle. Then after a few seconds the photo changes to a picture with a box containg 2 bottles.Some sellers are starting to add their own photo to accomadate this ongoing issue.

Product features

Refresh Tears

When you need immediate relief for dry, irritated eyes, you need Refresh Tears Lubricant Eye Drops. Having many of the same healthy qualities as your own natural tears, it instantly moisturizes and soothes.

Refresh Tears comes in a convenient multi-dose bottle, is safe to use with contacts, and can be used as often as needed.

Clear Eyes,Redness Relief Eye Drops, 0.5 Fl Oz (Pack of 3)

Clear Eyes

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

As the #1 selling brand of eye drops, Clear Eyes has provided consumers with a line of OTC eye drops that provide relief for a range of eye irritations. Over the years, Clear Eyes has developed new products applying new formulation technology to the creation of specialty eye drops. All Clear Eyes products are specially formulated to soothe a range of conditions including red, itchy, burning, gritty, irritated, and dry eyes. Clear Eyes Eye Drops provide fast acting relief, moisturizers for dry eyes, and long lasting soothing comfort. All Clear Eyes products provide up to 12 hours of soothing comfort.

  • Clear eyes redness relief eye drops relieve redness from minor irritations and protect against further irritations
  • Soothes and moisturizes to relieve redness
  • Helps irritation, burning, and mild dry eyes
  • From the number 1 brand of eye drops
  • Provides up to 12 hours of soothing comfort; Pack of 3

User questions & answers

Question: Can you use this while wearing contacts? not just after
Answer: No! Only use contact lens drops while wearing them.
Question: What’s the expiration date
Answer: Expiration date is likely to change based on lot number. The expiration date on mine is 12/2022.
Question: What is the expiration date
Answer: Expiration date on my drops are 12/2022. Unless the drops you receive have the same lot number, there is no guarantee the expiration date will remain the same.
Question: Is this product made in the USA
Answer: The bottle info states that it is made in Canada.

TheraTears Eye Drops for Dry Eyes, Dry Eye Therapy Lubricant Eyedrops, Provides Long Lasting Relief, 30 mL, 1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) Value Size

Thera Tears

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price

Product description

TheraTears Dry Eye Therapy- Lubricant Eye Drops provide immediate, long lasting relief of dry eye symptoms. Directions - to open, twist tab completely off. Instill 1 or 2 drops in the affected eye(s) as needed.

  • DRY EYE RELIEF: Use ThereTears Dry Eye Therapy Lubricant Eye Drops for immediate long lasting relief of dry eye symptoms
  • RESTORE EYES NATURAL BALANCE: TheraTears electrolyte formula corrects the salt imbalance that can cause dry eye symptoms
  • UNIQUE SOLUTION: Utilizes a one of a kind hypotonic and electrolyte balanced formula that replicates healthy tears
  • PRESERVATIVE FREE IN THE EYE: TheraTears offers the benefits of a preservative free solution in a bottle thanks to our unique preserving ingredient that turns into pure oxygen and water on eye contact
  • DOCTOR CREATED: TheraTears is not only recommmended by doctors, it was created by an Ophthalmologist after 18 years of research

User questions & answers

Question: Can it relieve visual fatigue after studying on computer
Answer: Staring at a computer often means we don't blink enough. This can lead to eye fatigue and irritation, so I would say, "Yes." I, too, use the drops for this reason.
Question: shelf life for thera tears
Answer: I ordered my bottle of Thera Tears on 1/31/14. The expiration date on the bottle is 11/2015. So it looks like the shelf life is close to 2 years.
Question: Can I use this while wearing contact lenses
Answer: Hi Yi W., that’s a great question! We recommend trying our “TheraTears® Contact Lens Comfort Drops”, which are FDA approved for use with daily wear and extended wear soft and rigid gas permeable contact lenses.
Question: Looks like they changed the formula when they recently changed the packaging...Is this still preservative free? I can't find where it says that on box
Answer: This whole "preservative free" business is very strange. I have been purchasing the "old" packaging for several years now and purchased it specifically because it was PRESERVATIVE FREE as recommended by my Ophthalmologist. Now the new packaging doesn't say Preservative Free on he front of the package but if you take time to look all over the outer box it says that it is PRESERVATIVE FREE IN THE EYE. What does THAT mean. So I called the number on the package and was told by the person who answered the phone that it is the same formula but it can't be preservative free in the bottle because you are always taking the lid on and off the bottle. So it is preservative free as it hits the eye. Figure that out. I can't. The "old" bottle which is what they say is the same formula doesn't say anything about not being preservative free as it hits the eye. So I went to the website where it says, "NOW you can get preservative free in a bottle." WHAT? I thought it was the same formula. Was it not preservative free before, but just said so on the package? What they are claiming now is that the only TRUE Preservative Free eye drops are in the individual vials which of course you can purchase. I used to buy those before they changed the vials so that now you cannot put the top back on if you don't use the entire amount. I don't know what everyone else thinks, but this whole thing sounds very "fishy" to me. I haven't opened the new box I just received from Amazon and don't think I will do that until I get an answer from my Ophthalmologist to see if she can shed any light on this situation.

Sterile Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops 0.5oz

Wal-Mart

Based on 278 reviews Check latest price

Product description

For use as a protectant against further irritation or to relieve dryness of the eye. For the temporary relief of burning and irritation due to dryness of the eye. Polyvinyl Alcohol 0.5%, Povidone 0.6%. Soothes and Moisturizes. Lubricates. Relieves Dry and Irritated Eyes.

  • Relieves Dry and Irritated Eyes.
  • Soothes and Moisturizes. Lubricates.
  • Polyvinyl Alcohol 0.5%, Povidone 0.6%.
  • For the temporary relief of burning and irritation due to dryness of the eye.
  • For use as a protectant against further irritation or to relieve dryness of the eye.

User questions & answers

Question: What is the expiration date
Answer: The bottle i just got has an expiration date of 6-19 - it is shown at the bottom of the carton when in doubt, ask your pharmacy or call the company direct.
Question: Can I use this to remove eyelashes
Answer: no this is not for that function
Question: Do you have to use within one month after opening it
Answer: I just read the back of the box and it says nothing about using it in a certain time frame after opening it. But, I've always used mine up with in a month though. However, there is an expiration date on the box. The ones I've purchased have had at least 2 years before expiration.
Question: Bottle shown is .5 fl oz. shipping pkg is 5 ounces. how many bottles are offered in this pkg? want to be sure and I don't see it listed
Answer: One.

Gericare Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops, 15 mL Per Bottle (5 Pack)

GERI CARE PHARM

Based on 76 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Gericare Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops, 15 mL Per Bottle

  • GERI CARE PHARM
  • 357896184058
  • Geri-Care

User questions & answers

Question: expiration date
Answer: Just checked my current bottle and the expiration date is on the bottom of the bottle.
Question: Are these no perservatives
Answer: Under Inactive Ingredients, in addition to purified water, there are 9 chemicals listed. I’m pretty sure that most or all of those are preservatives.
Question: What is the active ingredient
Answer: active ingredients, according to the label: glycerin .2% hypromellose .2% polyethylene glycol 400 1% hope this helps
Question: Does this contain a preservative
Answer: It doesn't say. You can call 1-800-540-3765

Systane Ultra Lubricant Eye Drops, Twin Pack, 10-mL Each,packaging may vary

Systane

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Systane Ultra Lubricant Eye Drops are clinically proven to deliver extended protection and high-performance relief from your dry eye symptoms. This Ultra formula provides you with the extended relief that you need. These lubricant eye drops have been clinically proven to reduce both the signs and symptoms of dry eye, quickly. Providing immediate, long-lasting moisture and protection Systane Lubricant Eye Drops offer the relief you need to get through your day. You no longer have to suffer through burning and irritation due to your dry eyes, get temporary relief with these lubricant eye drops. Available in multiple size bottles to keep your eyes feeling moist and refreshed during your day. The Systane Family of Products is the #1 Doctor Recommended brand of artificial tears for dry eye symptom relief. Don’t let dry eyes ruin your day, Systane provides temporary relief from your symptoms.

  • #1 Dr Recommended Brand of Artificial Tears*, packaging may vary
  • Extended Protection
  • Fast Long-Lasting Dry Eye Symptom Relief
  • Reduces both the signs and symptoms of dry eye
  • Quickly soothe irritated eyes wherever you are

User questions & answers

Question: Would you recommend this for eyes that are dry and tired after computer strain
Answer: Yes, very much so. They were recommended to me by one of my eye doctors for MY dry eyes. Most of the over the counter eye drops contain alcohol, or some other drying agent that initially feels good, but after a little while your eyes become as dry or dryer than they were before using them. These Systane drops do not contain any of these drying agents---alcohol or other. It is also better to use these more often than not, as dryness can & will create minute scratches on the eye-- again--as told to me by my eye doctor.
Question: Is this preservative free
Answer: A Systane bottle containing MORE than one dose in it has "POLYQUAD (polyquaternium-1) 0.001%" as a preservative. (With any medication, all multi-dose eye drop bottles contain preservatives.) The single use Sustame vials are preservative free. However, even though I usually have a sensitivity to eye drop preservatives, I can use the multi-dose bottle of Systane drops without any trouble. I did an experiment where I used drops from a Systane multi-dose bottle in one eye and drops from a Systane single dose vial in the other eye. After 2 weeks, there was no difference in my eyes!
Question: What is the difference between this and the regular one, what does ultra do extra
Answer: The Ultra has a higher viscosity ("thicker"). I find it much more soothing, and don't have to apply it as often. There's also an Ultra gel drop that is even "thicker" and really great when the air is really dry, or indoor heat or air is blowing. Nice to have options to choose from! Btw, my ophthalmologist recommended Systane Ultra, and my eyes feel much better.
Question: Do you get 2 10-ml bottles with a Pack of 1 ? The listing is confusing
Answer: Yes, this is a twin pack, so you get 2 bottles of 10 ml each. All the information is on the picture of the cover of the box.

Product features

Systane Ultra Lubricant Eye Drops

These lubricating eye drops leave eyes feeling refreshed, bringing you relief and lasting protection against mild dry eye symptoms, including:

1 Doctor Recommended Brand of Artificial Tears*

Treat your dry eye symptoms with confidence with Systane, the #1 doctor recommended brand for artificial tears. All Systane eye drops soothe, comfort and moisturize eyes to leave them feeling renewed and refreshed.

*Based on a survey of 611 eye care professionals’ recommendations for artificial tears and related products. MarketVision Research. January 2014.

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

Optase

Based on 164 reviews Check latest price
  • MOISTURIZE AND PROTECT: Made of glycerin and quality ingredients, Optase Dry Eye Intense Drops mix with the natural oils needed to protect your tears and hydrate your eyes to improve tear quality
  • PRESERVATIVE FREE: Optase Intense Eye Drops is the only product of its kind to provide a preservative free combination of ingredients designed to treat dry eye symptoms in a unique multi-dose bottle
  • MODERATE TO SEVERE DRY EYE RELIEF: The long lasting formulation of Optase Intense provides comfort for dry eye and post operative symptoms. And it is contact lens safe, providing relief when needed
  • ADVANCED BOTTLE TECHNOLOGY: A convenient multi-use drop bottle with advanced technology maintains sterility over 3 months without preservatives. Avoid the hassle of individual vials while on the go
  • COMPLETE DOCTOR RECOMMENDED EYE CARE RELIEF: OPTASE is the expert recommended 3-step regimen to help tackle the cause and symptoms of Dry Eyes, Blepharitis and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

User questions & answers

Question: What is the expiration date for the Optase dry eye intense drops
Answer: As long as you are purchasing from Scope Eyecare, you are purchasing directly from the manufacturer. Thus, you can be assured that you are receiving the freshest product available. Optase Intense Dry Eye Drops are sterile for three months from opening. Thank you for the question! -Scope Eyecare Customer Service
Question: how much hyaluronic acid - percentage
Answer: Hello! Hyaluronic Acid 0.2% is the inactive ingredient in OPTASE Intense, alongside Glyercin 0.2% as the Active ingredient. Thanks for the question!
Question: Does the bottle have to be squeezed? The directions don't say. I saw one review talking about pumping it not sure what they meant
Answer: Hello! Yes, Optase Intense Eye Drops are dispensed in an innovative, multi-use sterile bottle and are applied by squeezing drops into the eye. The review discussing a pump was most likely referring to Optase Dry Eye Spray, which uses a pump system to release moisturizing dry eye relief in spray form, and is a great alternative to those who have trouble applying hydration with a squeeze bottle. Both products are part of Step 3 of the Optase complete system to relieve symptoms associated with Dry Eye. Thank you for the question!
Question: What is the source of the hyalauronic acid? does it come from animals
Answer: Hello! Oour Hyaluronic Acid does not come from animals, it is derived from a yeast extract and therefore suitable for use by Vegetarians and Vegans. Thank you for the question!

Rite Aid Artificial Tears, Polyethylene Glycol - 1 oz | Lubricant Eye Drops

Rite Aid

Based on 140 reviews Check latest price

Product description

As we get older, our bodies change, and sometimes they need some help keeping up with our busy lifestyles. Rite Aid Artificial Tears Lubricating Eye Drops uses a dry eye formula for fast relief from age-related dry eyes. Replenishes tears and refreshes eyes with sterile formula that relieves discomfort.

Features & Benefits:

  • Replenishes tears
  • Refreshes eyes
  • Fast relief from symptoms
  • Sterile fluid

  • FAST RELIEF: Quick and effective relief for age-related dry eyes
  • REPLENISHES TEARS: Naturally helps your eyes tear ducts to relieve dryness
  • STERILE: Dry eye drops formulated and sterilized to refresh your eyes without nasty side effects
  • TRUSTED BRAND: Rite Aid - delivering the products you need to lead a healthier life since 1962

Goodsense Eye Drops Artificial Tears, Blue, 0.5 Fluid Ounce

Good Sense

Based on 102 reviews Check latest price

Product description

B008Y5YBA8

  • Adds moisture to eyes
  • Helpful for eye lubrication
  • Soothes irritate eyes
  • Easy to use eye drops
  • Quantity: 0.5 Oz.

User questions & answers

Question: Are these drops safe to use with contacts
Answer: “Artificial tears may contain preservatives that are contra-indicated for soft lens use. But you may safely use most preservative-free artificial tears over your soft contact lenses. Rewetting drops that are made specifically for contact lenses are most times best. I don’t see it says preservative free on this one. I would take contacts out before use it.
Question: What is the active ingredient and the percentage
Answer: POLYVINYL ALCOHOL 0.5% AND POVIDONE 0.6% are the two main ingredients.
Question: My eye doc said not to use drops with preservatives-Do these have preservatives? Thank you
Answer: Yes, I think it has preservatives.

Gericare- Artificial lubricating Tears Dry Eye relief 0.5 OZ (PACK OF 2)

GERICARE

Based on 31 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Artificial Tears

  • Artificial Tears

Equate: Sterile Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops, .5 fl oz

Equate

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Temporary Relief of Burning and Irritation Due to Dryness of The Eye, Prevents Further Irritation

  • Lubricant eye drops
  • Soothing relief
  • Refreshes dry eyes

User questions & answers

Question: The headline says 5 oz but description indicates 0.3 oz. I think it is a 0.5 oz bottle with 0.3 oz contents but I'd like to confirm
Answer: It s 0.5 oz. thank you

Refresh Optive Lubricant Eye Drops, 60 Single-Use Containers, 0.01 fl oz (0.4mL) each Sterile

Refresh

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Lubricates and protects the eye's surface that can become damaged due to dryness.

  • Long-lasting hydration for dry, burning, irritated eyes
  • Lubricates and protects the eye's surface that can become damaged due to dryness
  • Recommended for LASIK dryness
  • Value size, 60 single-use vials
  • Preservative-free for sensitive eyes. Contact lens type - soft
  • Safe to use as often as needed
  • Inventiv Health Research & Insights Treatment Answers, MAT ending October 2016
  • If used for post-operative (e.g., LASIK) dryness, follow your eye doctor's instructions

User questions & answers

Question: Are refresh optive lubricant eye drops preservative free
Answer: Hello,Thank you for your inquiry. This specific UPC/ASIN is a preservative free eye-drop. That is why it comes in individual single use tubes. Please feel free to contact us if we can further assist you and we will be more than happy to do so.
Question: does this contain castor oil
Answer: I don't think so. I checked the box for the active and inactive ingredients list and didn't find it listed.
Question: What are the ingredients
Answer: One of the other reviewers, Sukie D., listed the inactive ingredients. The active ingredients are carboxymethylcellulose sodium .5% and glycerin .9%. Hope this helps.
Question: Can this be used for contact lens
Answer: Yes they can be used with contact lens, I've been using them for years while wearing my contacts. Before I began using them I called the company to confirm that they can be used with contacts. :-)

Product features

Refresh Optive Preservative-Free

When your eyes are dry, burning, or irritated because of Dry Eye, Refresh Optive Preservative-Free Lubricant Eye Drops offer relief with not just one, but two active ingredients. Providing long-lasting hydration, this specially designed formula moisturizes and protects the cells of the eye that can become damaged due to Dry Refresh Optive Preservative-Free is also recommended for post-Lasik dryness. If using this product for post-Lasik dryness, be sure to follow your eye doctor's instructions.

Dry Eye and Lasik

Dry Eye is a common complaint among those who undergo Lasik. Dry Eye symptoms can last for six months or longer after Lasik surgery. Certain factors such as gender, lifestyle and ethnicity may increase the chances of having Dry Eye post-Lasik.

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