Not sure where to start? Try the product finder
If the choice feels overwhelming, our dry eye product finder asks five quick questions and suggests a suitable product category and a few matching products to begin with. It's a starting point to help you shop, not a diagnosis — it won't identify the cause or type of your dry eye. For a proper assessment, see the note at the end of this page.
Hydrating (aqueous) eye drops
Water-based lubricating eye drops add moisture to the surface of the eye and are a sensible first step for general dryness. They're thin, act quickly and are easy to top up through the day.
Lipid-based and evaporation-focused drops
Some drops are formulated to support the eye's natural oily layer and slow tear evaporation — often chosen for dryness in air-conditioning, wind or after long screen sessions. Product labels state whether a formula is intended to support the lipid layer.
Preservative-free drops
For frequent, daily dosing or easily irritated eyes, many people prefer preservative-free eye drops, which come as single-use vials or specially designed multi-dose bottles. Preservative-free refers to the formula only — it does not, on its own, mean a drop is safe to use while contact lenses are in. Always check the pack.
Contact-lens-compatible drops
If you wear contacts, choose a product the manufacturer confirms is suitable to use with lenses in place — this is separate from whether it's preservative-free. Look for drops labelled for use with contact lenses.
Longer-lasting drops, gels and overnight ointments
Thicker formulas stay on the eye longer. Gels and ointments can blur vision briefly, so ointments are generally used at bedtime to protect the eyes overnight, while gel-drops suit those wanting fewer applications during the day.
Eyelid care
Where dryness is linked to the eyelids, gentle eyelid cleansers, lid wipes and a warm compress may help as part of a daily lid-hygiene routine. Use these as everyday eyelid care, and follow the directions on each product.
Compare the options
Still deciding? Read our guide on how to choose the right eye drops for dry eyes to compare hydrating, lipid-based, preservative-free and longer-lasting formulas in more detail.
When to see an optometrist
These products support comfort but do not treat the underlying cause of dry eye. If your symptoms are persistent, worsening, affecting your vision, or come with pain, redness or discharge — or if a contact-lens-wearing eye becomes red and sore — book a dry eye assessment with our optometry team so we can examine your eyes and tailor a plan.