Dry eye disease can result in a range of uncomfortable symptoms. The standard approach to treat these symptoms typically involves using eye drops, which may be available over the counter or through a prescription. Each choice has its benefits and can offer relief.
Although eye drops are widely used, many people with dry eyes may feel hesitant about using them. What if other products could help alleviate dry eye symptoms without depending solely on eye drops? We have compiled a list of alternatives that can be utilized on their own or in conjunction with eye drops for enhanced relief.
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Dry Eye Supplements
- Vitamins, minerals, and other extracts can help your body create quality tears and reduce inflammation. Bruder Dry Eye Drink has green tea extract, B vitamins, DHA, turmeric, and electrolytes which can not only aid in hydration, but also reduce inflammation. Tear Support by VisualAdvantage contains proprietary values of omega-3s, omega-6s, and omega-9s. This combination helps lubricate the eye and reduce inflammation.
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Eyelid Firming Cream
- Until recently, these “beauty creams” have been widely considered a feminine product. As eye care professionals recognized the functional advantages of these creams, they began to regularly recommend them to all patients. These creams contain hyaluronic acid, peptides, and other antioxidants which keep your eyelids function properly. Loose or sagging eyelids can cause your lash line to turn in or out, which causes significant discomfort. Our optometrists rely on EltaMD’s Renew Eye Gel to ensure your eyelids feel and look fantastic.
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Toxin-Free Eye Makeup
- A team of eye care experts collaborated to develop eye makeup that eliminates common irritants while still providing a stunning appearance. Eyes Are The Story carries mascara, eyeshadow, and even a cleanser and serum set to help keep your daily routine from impacting the comfort of your eyes. Their products are not only vegan, but also cruelty-free.
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Eyelid Wipes
- Keeping your eyelids clean can help prevent a myriad of dry eye symptoms. Meibomian glands in your eyelids produce an important layer in your tear film. Blephadex Eyelid Cleansing Wipes will help gently remove any meibomian gland clogging debris. These wipes contain tea tree oil to keep demodex mites at bay as well as coconut oil to naturally remove irritants (including makeup!).
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Warm Compresses
- Warm compresses are recommended to help melt stagnant oils in the meibomian glands and relax eyestrain. Bruder has developed a reusable mask featuring heat-retaining beads. Simply microwave the mask for about 10 seconds, and it will maintain warmth for approximately 20 to 25 minutes. It includes an adjustable strap that applies adequate pressure on the eyes. Additionally, there is a disposable version that comes individually wrapped and begins to heat upon opening the package. This option is particularly popular among patients who travel or prefer the convenience of not having to clean a reusable mask.
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In-Office Dry Eye Treatments
- There are 3 in-office treatments that our office performs daily to help keep our patient’s dry eye symptoms under control. Our most popular treatment is radio frequency or RF. These treatments use radio frequency to produce heat in deeper skin layers which helps boost oil and collagen production in and around the eyes. The second treatment we offer is intense pulse light or IPL treatments. This treatment uses repetitive light pulses to promote healthy oil production and reduce inflammation. Last (but absolutely not least) is our eyelid cleansing treatment by Zocular. A plant-based gel is scrubbed along the lash line which helps loosen stubborn debris and achieves a healthy baseline to continue lid care at home.
We provide a selection of products and treatments designed to alleviate your dry eye symptoms. Our doctors and staff personally test each product before it is offered to patients, which means we all have a great batch of recommendations ready for you. Along with dry eye solutions, we also offer a range of products focused on sun protection and retinal health.
Visit our office today to explore these offerings, or give us a call to schedule a dry eye consultation for personalized product recommendations! 256-536-4489
