How to Manage Dry Eyes at Home: 7 Simple Tips

Dry eyes can be uncomfortable, causing burning, itching, and irritation. Thankfully, there are simple ways to manage this condition at home. Here’s a quick guide to help you find relief:

Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter drops can provide quick lubrication.
Warm Compresses: Apply a warm, damp cloth to your eyes to improve tear quality.
Clean Your Eyelids: Gently cleanse daily to remove debris and oils.
Control Indoor Air: Use a humidifier to add moisture and avoid direct air drafts.
Reduce Screen Time: Follow the 20-20-20 rule to prevent eye strain.
Eat and Drink Right: Incorporate omega-3s, stay hydrated, and limit caffeine and alcohol.
Know When to See a Doctor: Persistent symptoms may require professional care.

Home Remedy for Dry Eyes | 7 Tips for Dry Eye Treatment (at Home)

Tip 1: Use Artificial Tears and Eye Drops

Relieve dry eyes by trying over-the-counter solutions such as artificial tears, gel drops, or ointments. Choose a product that best matches your symptoms and addresses the underlying cause of your dry eyes.

Tip 2: Use Warm Compresses for Soothing Relief

Warm compresses can help by loosening the thick oils that may clog your eyelid glands, improving the quality of your tears. To try this, soak a clean washcloth in warm water (test the warmth on your wrist first), wring out the excess water, and gently place it over your closed eyelids.

Leave the compress on for about 10–15 minutes, reheating it as needed to maintain warmth. Once you’re done, use clean fingers to lightly massage your eyelids in circular motions, starting from the inner corners and moving outward. This helps release the warmed oils and can provide additional relief.

Eye care experts often suggest doing this twice a day – once in the morning and again before bed. However, if you experience redness, irritation, or discomfort, try lowering the water temperature or reducing how often you use the compress. The process should feel comforting, not painful.

Stick with this routine consistently, and consider cutting back on screen time to further alleviate dry eye symptoms.

Tip 3: Keep Your Eyelids Clean

Taking care of your eyelids is a simple yet effective way to manage dry eyes at home. Debris, oil, and bacteria can build up on your eyelids, blocking vital oil glands and making dryness and irritation worse. A regular cleaning routine can help keep these issues in check.

Make it a habit to clean your eyelids daily – just like brushing your teeth. This helps remove makeup residue, dead skin, and excess oils that could aggravate dry eye symptoms or lead to infections and inflammation.

Start by washing your hands thoroughly. Then, use a mild, preservative-free cleanser or a diluted baby shampoo (mixed in a 1:10 ratio with water). Avoid anything with fragrances or harsh chemicals. Gently cleanse the edges of your eyelids with a clean cotton swab or your fingertip, moving from the inner to the outer corners of your eyes. Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel.

"Cleaning your eyelids everyday, especially if you wear makeup, can improve your dry eye symptoms, and prevent dry eyes from getting worse." – Optometrists.org

For best results, aim to clean your eyelids twice a day – once in the morning and again before bed. If you’re dealing with a dry eye flare-up or more severe symptoms, you might need to do this up to four times daily.

If traditional cleansing feels inconvenient, consider using lid scrubs. These pre-moistened wipes are specifically designed to clear away debris and oils from your eyelids. They’re especially handy when you’re traveling or don’t have access to your usual supplies.

If you wear makeup, be extra mindful of your routine. Products like mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow can clog the oil glands along your eyelid margins. Always remove your makeup before bed, and try using hypoallergenic or sensitive-eye-friendly makeup products to reduce irritation.

Consistency is key. Regular eyelid cleaning, especially when paired with warm compresses, can significantly improve dry eye symptoms and support your eyes’ natural tear production.

Tip 4: Control Indoor Air and Humidity

The air quality inside your home plays a big role in keeping your eyes comfortable. Dry indoor air can cause tears to evaporate faster, leading to irritation – especially during colder months when heating systems are running or in naturally arid climates. To combat this, adding moisture to the air is key.

Using a humidifier is a great way to maintain proper indoor humidity. A cool-mist humidifier is a popular option since it increases moisture without introducing extra heat. Just make sure to clean it regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria.

Pay attention to airflow in your home as well. Direct drafts from fans, air conditioners, or heating vents can dry out your eyes. Adjust your seating or reposition vents to avoid direct exposure to these air currents. This small adjustment can make a big difference in preserving your eyes’ natural tear balance.

Additionally, steer clear of sitting too close to dry heat sources like radiators or space heaters. While indoor plants won’t replace a humidifier, they can subtly boost moisture levels in the air and contribute to better overall air quality.

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Tip 5: Reduce Screen Time Eye Strain

Spending long hours staring at screens is a major reason for dry eyes in today’s digital age. When you’re focused on your computer, smartphone, or tablet, your blink rate drops dramatically – from the usual 15–20 blinks per minute to as few as 5. Fewer blinks mean your eyes aren’t getting the moisture they need to stay comfortable. To counter this, make a conscious effort to blink slowly and fully while using screens, helping to spread tears evenly across your eyes.

The 20-20-20 rule is a simple yet effective way to combat screen-related eye strain. Every 20 minutes, shift your focus to something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This not only relaxes your eye muscles but also encourages natural blinking. Use a timer or break-reminder software to ensure you take regular pauses.

Proper screen positioning can also make a big difference. Keep your screen 20–26 inches away, with the top of the screen at or slightly below eye level. Tilting the screen back by 10–20 degrees encourages a downward gaze, which helps keep your eyelids partially closed and reduces tear evaporation.

Adjust your display settings for comfort. Make text larger, increase contrast, and reduce blue light exposure. Many devices come with built-in blue light filters, or you can use apps that adjust your screen’s color temperature based on the time of day. Beyond these tweaks, scheduling regular breaks from your screen allows your eyes to recover and rehydrate.

Incorporate "screen-free zones" into your day. For instance, avoid screens during the first hour after waking up and the last hour before bed. This break gives your eyes time to rest and maintain their natural moisture. During lunch breaks, consider stepping outside or looking out a window instead of scrolling through your phone.

Lighting matters, too. Avoid working in complete darkness with your screen as the sole light source – it creates a harsh contrast that stresses your eyes. Similarly, don’t place your screen directly in front of or behind a bright window. Aim for ambient lighting that’s about half as bright as your screen for a more comfortable viewing experience.

Tip 6: Eat Right and Stay Hydrated for Eye Health

What you eat and drink directly impacts the health of your eyes, especially when it comes to tear quality. Nutrient-rich foods provide the essential building blocks for a stable tear film, while staying hydrated ensures your body has enough fluid to keep your eyes comfortably moist throughout the day.

Omega-3 fatty acids are a key player in supporting eye health. These healthy fats help reduce inflammation and stabilize the tear film. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna are excellent sources of omega-3s – try to include at least two 3.5-ounce servings of these fish in your diet each week. If seafood isn’t your thing, plant-based options like walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and hemp seeds can also provide omega-3s, although your body processes these differently.

Your daily water intake is just as important. Aim for about 8 glasses (64 ounces) of water each day, though you may need more if you live in a dry climate, spend long hours in air-conditioned spaces, or exercise frequently. Dehydration can affect your body’s ability to produce tears, so keeping hydrated is crucial. Instead of chugging water all at once, sip throughout the day – keeping a water bottle handy can make this easier. Starting your morning with a glass of water is also a great habit to establish.

Vitamins A, beta-carotene, and D are essential for maintaining healthy eyes. Foods like sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, kale, and fortified dairy products help support your corneas and the mucus layer of your tear film. Dark leafy greens also provide lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that protect your eyes from damage. Additionally, vitamin D plays a role in tear production, and low levels are often linked to drier eyes. While sunlight exposure helps your body produce vitamin D naturally, you can also find it in foods like fortified milk, egg yolks, and fatty fish. Many people in the U.S. have low vitamin D levels, particularly during the winter months, so it’s worth checking your levels during your next doctor’s visit.

On the flip side, highly processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol can make dry eye symptoms worse by contributing to dehydration and inflammation. While you don’t need to cut these out entirely, moderation is key. If you notice your eyes feel drier after indulging in certain foods or drinks, consider cutting back.

Adding anti-inflammatory foods to your meals can also help. Berries, tomatoes, olive oil, and green tea contain compounds that reduce inflammation throughout your body, including your eyes. When combined with omega-3s, these foods can greatly improve tear production and reduce discomfort caused by dry eyes.

With consistent healthy eating and proper hydration, you may notice improvements in tear quality within 6–8 weeks. To stay on track, keep a simple log of your water intake and make note of how your eyes feel. This can help you identify what works best for your body and ensure your efforts are paying off.

Tip 7: Know When to See an Eye Doctor

While home remedies can ease discomfort for many, there are moments when professional care is essential. If your symptoms persist despite consistent at-home treatment, it’s a clear sign that it’s time to consult an eye care specialist. Ignoring persistent issues could worsen your condition over time.

Changes in your vision should never be overlooked. If you notice ongoing difficulties even with updated glasses or contacts, it’s a warning sign that requires immediate attention. Other red flags include worsening sensations of burning, stinging, or scratching that disrupt daily activities. Symptoms like watery eyes, stringy mucus, eyelids sticking together in the morning, or heightened sensitivity to light may indicate that your condition has progressed beyond what home remedies can handle.

When home treatments fall short, seeking expert care becomes the logical next step. At Haas Vision Center, Dr. Michael G. Haas provides a thorough evaluation tailored to your needs. This begins with a comprehensive review of your medical history and a detailed discussion of your symptoms. If needed, Dr. Haas may perform the Schirmer test – a simple, painless procedure that measures tear production using a small strip of paper placed under your lower eyelid. From there, he carefully reviews the results and discusses treatment options, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the next steps. His goal is to create a personalized plan that aligns with your lifestyle and addresses your specific concerns.

When scheduling an appointment, be sure to bring a photo ID and your current insurance card. Payment is due at the time of service, and Haas Vision Center accepts most major insurance plans, working with you to clarify your coverage options.

If your symptoms persist or you recognize any of the warning signs mentioned, don’t delay. A professional evaluation can uncover the root cause of your discomfort and guide you toward an effective treatment plan. Taking action promptly can make all the difference in protecting your eye health.

Conclusion: Your Action Plan for Dry Eye Relief

Taking care of dry eyes at home doesn’t have to be complicated. The seven strategies we’ve discussed – like using artificial tears, applying warm compresses, keeping your eyelids clean, and managing your indoor environment – can bring noticeable relief. Start small by trying one or two methods, then gradually add more as they become part of your daily routine. Each step brings you closer to easing discomfort and improving your eye health.

Consistency is what makes the difference. Regularly use artificial tears, limit screen time, and stay hydrated to maintain long-term relief. Keep an eye on your progress, and if symptoms persist or worsen after a few weeks, it’s time to consult a professional. Severe dry eyes left untreated can lead to more serious issues, such as eye inflammation, corneal abrasions, ulcers, or even vision problems.

If home remedies aren’t enough, schedule a visit with Dr. Michael G. Haas at Haas Vision Center. Dr. Haas can identify any underlying causes of your dry eyes and recommend advanced treatments that go beyond over-the-counter solutions. These might include prescription medications to increase tear production or therapies to reduce tear drainage. While chronic dry eye may require ongoing care, combining home strategies with professional treatment can effectively manage your symptoms.

The first step begins now. Pick the tips that fit best into your routine and start using them consistently. Your eyes will thank you for the care and attention.

FAQs

When should I see an eye doctor for my dry eyes?

If your dry eye symptoms don’t improve or seem to get worse despite trying home remedies, it’s time to consult an eye doctor. Be alert for signs like persistent dryness, redness, irritation, pain, blurred or inconsistent vision, or excessive tearing. These symptoms might point to a deeper issue that requires professional care.

Dry eyes interfering with your daily activities – like reading, working, or driving – are another reason to seek help. An eye doctor can pinpoint the root cause and suggest personalized treatments to ease your discomfort.

What dietary changes can help relieve dry eye symptoms?

Dietary Tips to Ease Dry Eye Symptoms

Tweaking your diet can play a big role in managing dry eye discomfort. Start by including more omega-3 fatty acids in your meals. These healthy fats, found in salmon, mackerel, walnuts, and flaxseeds, help reduce inflammation and improve tear quality, which can bring much-needed relief.

Don’t forget about vitamin A-rich foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and dairy products. These foods support the surface of your eyes, keeping them healthy and functioning well.

Another nutrient to consider is zinc, which is known to support overall eye health. You can find zinc in oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and lentils – easy additions to your diet.

Lastly, staying hydrated is crucial. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps maintain moisture levels in your eyes, making them feel more comfortable.

How does too much screen time cause dry eyes, and what can I do to prevent it?

Spending hours glued to screens can leave your eyes feeling parched and uncomfortable. Why? It slows down your natural blink rate, which means fewer tears are produced, and the ones you do have evaporate more quickly. This often results in dry, irritated, and tired eyes.

One way to combat this is by following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It’s a simple habit that can ease eye strain and remind you to blink more frequently. Another tip? Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, especially in dry indoor spaces. These small tweaks can go a long way in keeping your eyes feeling refreshed and comfortable.