Over-the-counter eye drops vs prescription eye drops

Our exceptional selection of high-quality eye drops features entirely 'over-the-counter' products. These are designed to treat common eye problems and dry eye symptoms, like when they feel dry or irritated from your contact lenses or allergies. If your eyes start to feel worse, or the condition doesn't go away, just reach out to a healthcare professional who can recommend a more suitable prescription to tackle the problem.

Dry eyes:

It's quite common to experience dry eyes, particularly if you work in an environment that causes eye strain. You can get dry eyes for a variety of reasons, such as using a computer screen for long periods, not getting enough sleep and dehydration. But, what isn't well known is that dry eyes can actually impact the quality of your vision, as well as cause discomfort.

Eye drops provide lubrication by adding tear elements that are the same as those found naturally in your eyes. Because of this, they're often referred to as 'artificial tears', perfect for keeping your eyes moist and hydrated over the course of the day.

Steer clear of using decongestant eye drops for dry eyes. These are formulated for red eyes and can exacerbate dry eyes. If your dry eyes aren't going away using lubricating drops, visit an eye doctor or a healthcare practitioner, and they can recommend something more suitable like an eye spray or an eyewash.

Red eyes:

If you have red eyes caused by tiredness or focusing for long periods of time then decongestant eye drops can help you get a more healthy, white appearance. They serve a more cosmetic purpose, so if your red eyes don't seem to improve or get worse, you should seek medical advice. Red eyes can usually be solved with dry eye drops, or by upping your water intake and getting some rest.

You might feel that dry feeling after wearing your contact lenses for a while. To avoid this, simply give your eyes a rest at least one day a week, and switch to your glasses if needed. Like we've mentioned, eye drops can also work wonders, ensuring your eyes feel comfortable while your vision remains crystal-clear. Additionally, changing to a daily wearing pattern or to a contact lens brand made of silicone hydrogel material, which is incredibly hydrating, can be a quick win in terms of reducing your regular dry eye experiences.

How to apply eye drops:

Once you've applied eyed drops a couple of times, you'll find it quick and easy to do. If you're unsure, follow these simple steps, as recommended by our head optician.

Once you've applied eyed drops a couple of times, you'll find it quick and easy to do. If you're unsure, follow these simple steps, as recommended by our head optician.

everclear Eye Drops

These eye drops, exclusive to Vision Direct, offer fast and effective relief for dry or irritated eyes. Made with a formula that includes natural, herbal ingredients, they're perfect for providing you with fresh feeling and comfortable eyes wherever you are.

Hycosan Eye Drops

If you often experience dry eyes, then these preservative-free eye drops are ideal for soothing them. This formula boosts your eye's moisture functions meaning that the relief you get from using them feels natural and lasts longer than other products on the market.

Blink Contacts Bottle

Blinks Contact Vials are a super-convenient way of getting instant relief when you're suffering from dry eyes. Each pack comes with 20 small vials filled with a solution that's brilliant for soothing and hydrating dry and tired eyes. These are great for carrying on you, as each 0.35ml bottle fits easily into your pocket.

Blink Contacts Vials

Blinks Contact Vials are super convenient way of getting instant relief when you’re suffering from dry eyes. Each pack comes with 20 small vials filled with a solution that is perfect for soothing and hydrating dry and tired eyes. These are perfect for carrying on you as each 0.35ml bottle fits easily into your pocket.

Hycosan Extra Eye Drops

These eye drops are designed to tackle the most irritating cases of dry eyes, so if you regularly experience them, they can help you avoid the discomfort. Each bottle contains enough eye drops for up to 5 weeks of regular usage and will last for 6 months after opening.