Dry eyes are a common issue, especially in a screen-heavy lifestyle. They occur when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort, redness, and sometimes even blurry vision. While it’s important to consult a doctor for chronic dry eyes, some effective home remedies can provide relief and improve tear production. Here are 5 tried-and-tested remedies to help soothe dry eyes.
Warm compress for instant comfort
A warm compress is one of the simplest ways to relieve dry eyes. It helps to open up blocked oil glands in the eyelids, which are crucial for producing the oily layer of tears that prevents tear evaporation.
How to do it:
– Dip a clean cloth in warm water, wring out the excess, and place it over your closed eyes for 5-10 minutes.
– Repeat this process 2-3 times daily for best results.
According to a 2017 study, warm compresses improve tear film stability and reduce symptoms of dry eyes in patients with meibomian gland dysfunction (a leading cause of dry eyes).
Stay hydrated with omega-3 fatty acid
Your diet plays a big role in eye health. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, are known to reduce inflammation and improve the quality of tears.
What to include in your diet:
– Fatty fish
– Chia seeds, flaxseeds, or walnuts
– Supplements, if recommended by a healthcare professional
A 2019 study shows that omega-3 supplementation significantly improves symptoms of dry eyes by improving tear stability and reducing inflammation.
Use the power of aloe vera gel
Aloe vera is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, and it can help alleviate dry eyes when applied externally around the eyelids.
How to use it:
– Extract fresh aloe vera gel from the leaf.
– Apply a small amount around your eyelids (avoid direct contact with the eyes).
– Let it sit for a few minutes before gently rinsing with water.
A study in 2020 confirmed the anti-inflammatory effects of aloe vera, showing its potential to reduce irritation and improve tear production when used as part of an eye care routine.
Blink more and practice the 20-20-20 rule
Long hours of screen time can drastically reduce your blink rate, contributing to dry eyes. Blinking helps to spread tears evenly across your eyes, keeping them hydrated.
What you can do:
– Make a conscious effort to blink more, especially when using digital devices.
– Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Research published in 2021 found that increasing blink frequency and practicing visual breaks significantly reduced digital eye strain and dry eye symptoms.
Apply cucumber slices for soothing relief
Cucumber slices aren’t just for spa days—they’re a quick and effective way to refresh your eyes and reduce dryness. Cucumbers contain water and antioxidants that hydrate the skin around the eyes and provide a cooling effect.
How to use it:
– Slice a chilled cucumber into thin rounds.
– Place the slices on your closed eyes and relax for 10-15 minutes.
While there isn’t extensive research specifically on cucumbers for dry eyes, their hydrating and cooling properties make them a popular home remedy for relieving mild eye discomfort.