Preservative-free eye drops vs eye drops with preservatives

People who use eye drops with preservatives sometimes notice that they experience more dry eye symptoms and that the eyes feel irritated. This may be due to a reaction to the preservatives in the eye drops. Some preservatives can cause minor damage to the outer layer of the cornea. What usually happens is that people start to drip more to treat dry eyes, but the preservative in the eye drops actually makes the allergic reaction worse. This creates a vicious cycle, with the eye becoming more sensitive and uncomfortable after each application. Preservative-free eye drops offer a solution in such an instance.

Fortunately, more and more eye drops without preservatives are becoming available. These eye drops are a lot gentler on your eyes and on your contact lenses. Today, eye drops are available in a bottle that is specially designed to ensure that bacteria does not have the chance to settle inside it. You can therefore continue to use the eye drops in a hygienic way. There are also eye drops without preservatives available in a vial for one-time use.

If you notice that you have sensitive eyes or have previously suffered from an allergic reaction to eye drops, eye drops without preservatives are recommended. Hypersensitivity to preservatives is common, and eye drops that do not contain preservatives are a solution.

There are various causes of dry eyes. For example, many people suffer from dry and sensitive eyes when they work behind a computer all day. In winter, the heating inside often provides dry air, so that your eyes and contact lenses also feel dry quickly. While in the summer the air conditioning can actually make your eyes feel dry. Age can also have an influence: many people find that they get drier eyes as they get older. Some women experience dry eyes during pregnancy.

Whatever the cause, if you suffer from dry, sensitive, or burning eyes, we recommend using eye drops. Eye drops that do not contain preservatives are extra gentle on your eyes and your contact lenses.

Do you notice an insufficient effect of the eye drops or do you suffer from dry eyes for a long time? Then pay a visit to the optician. The optician can do an eye test and check your eye health.