How Often Should You Be Using Artificial Tears for Dry Eyes?

If your eyes often feel dry, irritated, or gritty, you might be dealing with dry eye syndrome. This condition happens when your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears to stay properly lubricated. Many people turn to artificial tears for relief - but while they can help soothe symptoms, it's important to understand how they work, how often to use them, and when it’s time to seek professional treatment for longer-lasting relief.
 

What Are Artificial Tears?

Artificial tears are over-the-counter eye drops designed to supplement your eye’s natural tear film. They help lubricate the eyes, soothe discomfort, and protect the surface of the eye. Many artificial tear products are available, including preservative-free versions for more frequent use or sensitive eyes.
 

How Often Should You Use Artificial Tears?

The frequency of artificial tear use depends on the severity of your symptoms and the product you’re using. For mild dry eye, applying artificial tears 1-2 times per day may be enough. For moderate to severe symptoms, you may need to use them 4-6 times daily or more. Always follow the directions on the label, and if you're using preservative-free drops, they can generally be used more frequently without irritating the eyes. However, if you find yourself relying on artificial tears multiple times a day without relief, it may be time to consider a more targeted approach.
 

When Artificial Tears Aren’t Enough

Artificial tears offer temporary relief, but they don’t address the root cause of dry eye. If you're still experiencing discomfort despite regular use, it’s essential to consult an optometrist. At Ocean Park Optometry, we offer advanced diagnostic testing to determine the underlying cause of your dry eye.
 

For many patients, issues like meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) are at the core of dry eye. In such cases, treatments like Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy or LipiFlow® thermal pulsation can provide long-term relief by restoring the natural balance of your tear film.
 

Take the First Step Toward Lasting Relief

While artificial tears can provide temporary relief from dry eye symptoms, they may not be enough to address the root cause. Understanding your specific condition is key to effective treatment.
 

If artificial tears aren’t giving you the comfort you need, don’t settle for short-term fixes. Schedule a consultation with Ocean Park Optometry to get to the root of your dry eye symptoms and explore effective, lasting treatment options. Visit our office in Santa Monica, California, or call (310) 452-1039 to book an appointment today.