Artificial Tears: What They Are, How They Work, and What to Know Before Using Them
When your eyes feel gritty, burning, or just plain tired, artificial tears, over-the-counter eye drops designed to mimic natural tears and relieve dryness. Also known as ocular lubricants, they’re one of the most common solutions for dry eye symptoms—but they’re not all created equal. Whether you’re staring at screens all day, taking meds that dry out your eyes, or just aging naturally, artificial tears can help. But using the wrong kind—or using them too much—can make things worse.
Not every bottle of artificial tears is the same. Some contain preservatives like benzalkonium chloride, which can irritate sensitive eyes if used daily. Others are preservative-free, sold in single-use vials, and better for long-term use. Then there are gels and ointments—thicker formulas meant for nighttime use because they blur vision. And don’t forget the ones with added ingredients like hyaluronic acid or omega-3s, which help hold moisture longer. The right choice depends on your symptoms, how often you need relief, and whether you’re using other eye meds.
Artificial tears aren’t a cure. They’re a tool. If you’re relying on them more than four times a day, or if your eyes still feel dry after using them, something else might be going on. Conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, blepharitis, or even thyroid issues can cause chronic dryness. Some medications—antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure drugs—also dry out your eyes. That’s why it’s smart to talk to a doctor if symptoms stick around. You might need more than drops. You might need a change in meds, a humidifier, or even eyelid treatments.
There’s also the question of cost. Some brands cost ten times more than others, but the active ingredients are often identical. Generic versions work just as well for most people. What you’re paying for is often the packaging, the brand name, or the feeling that "it’s better." But your eyes don’t care about the label. They care about whether the formula soothes them without burning or stinging.
And here’s something most people don’t realize: using artificial tears too often can actually wash away your natural tears. Your eyes make tears for a reason—they’re not just water. They contain oils, mucus, and proteins that protect your cornea. Over-reliance on simple saline drops can disrupt that balance. That’s why some formulas include lipid layers or mucin mimics—to help restore the natural tear film, not just replace water.
If you’ve ever wondered why one brand works for your friend but not you, it’s because dry eye isn’t one condition. It’s a symptom with many causes. Your tear film might be evaporating too fast. Your glands might be clogged. Your immune system might be attacking your tear ducts. That’s why the best approach isn’t just picking the cheapest bottle off the shelf. It’s understanding what’s going wrong—and choosing a product that matches your specific problem.
Below, you’ll find real-world advice from people who’ve been there: how to use artificial tears safely, which ones to avoid with contact lenses, what to do when they stop working, and how to tell if your dry eyes are a sign of something bigger. No fluff. No marketing. Just what works—and what doesn’t.
