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Artificial tears are over-the-counter eye drops designed to imitate the natural moisture in your eyes. They help relieve dryness, irritation, and discomfort caused by reduced tear production or rapid evaporation. These drops create a thin protective film that soothes and lubricates the eye's surface. less likely.
read more about artificial tears ...Most artificial tears are made up of water, electrolytes, and polymers like carboxymethylcellulose or hyaluronic acid. These polymers thicken the solution, so it stays on your eye longer. Some brands also add lipids or oils to help prevent tears from evaporating too quickly.
Some artificial tears are safe to use while wearing contact lenses, but not all formulas are lens-compatible. Always check the product label to see if it's suitable for contact lens wearers. If not, remove your lenses before applying the drops, or look for rewetting drops made specifically for contacts to avoid discomfort or buildup.
The lubricating film fills in tiny gaps in your natural tear layer, which cuts friction and locks in moisture. This eases the scratchy, gritty feeling that comes when your eyes become too dry. Also, relief may last from a few minutes to several hours depending on the brand's formula.
Artificial tears keep the eyes lubricated and comfortable, especially for contact lens wearers who experience dryness. They help maintain a stable tear film that reduces friction between the lens and the eye. Regular use supports clearer vision and longer, more comfortable lens wear.
Contact lenses work best when properly fitted, cared for, and replaced as directed. Whether it's lens design, material type, or maintenance routine, each element contributes to healthy, comfortable vision. Regular eye exams and professional guidance help keep your eyes safe and make sure every lens performs at its best.
Try artificial tears if you spend long hours staring at screens, wear contacts, or often find yourself in dry, air-conditioned environments. Symptoms like burning, redness, or a feeling of something in your eye are good cues. You can use mild formulas multiple times a day, but switch to preservative-free drops if you need relief more than four times daily.
For most people, artificial tears pose little risk when used as directed. Preservative-free vials cut down on irritation for frequent users. If you notice persistent redness, pain, or blurry vision after using drops, stop using it and check in with your eye doctor. They can rule out underlying issues or recommend prescription treatments if needed.
Yes. Choose a contact-safe formula and wait at least 10 minutes before inserting lenses.
Most OTC drops can be used up to four times a day; preservative-free options work safely as needed.
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Should I take out my contacts to apply artificial tears? American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/ask-ophthalmologist-q/should-i-take-out-my-contacts-to-apply-artificial-. Accessed March 12, 2026.
Contact Lenses. National Eye Institute. https://www.nei.nih.gov/eye-health-information/healthy-vision/contact-lenses. Accessed March 12, 2026.
Keratoconjunctivitis. StatPearls. NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542279/. Accessed March 12, 2026.