Are you constantly battling the discomfort of dry eyes? Whether it’s the sting, the redness, or the constant rubbing, dealing with dry eyes can be a daily nuisance. But don’t despair – relief is within your grasp! Here, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 home remedies for dry eyes in 2023 that you can easily adopt into your daily routine. Let’s dive in!

1. Warm Compresses: Soothing Warmth for Eye Relief

It might surprise you to learn that tears are composed of oil, water, and mucus, all of which are essential for moist, healthy eyes. If inflamed or flaky eyelids block the oil-producing glands on your lids, dry eyes can result. Fortunately, warm compresses can help alleviate this irritation and unclog the oils​. Simply wet a clean washcloth with warm water, wring it out, and place it over your closed eye for at least a minute. Repeat daily for the best results.

2. Clean Those Lashes: A Simple Step with Big Impact

By keeping your eyelids clean, you can better control any inflammation that might be contributing to your dry eyes. Use a little baby shampoo or a mild soap to gently massage your closed eye, paying close attention to the base of your eyelashes​. This simple step can have a substantial impact on your eye comfort.

3. Blink More: The 20/20 Rule for Eye Hydration

With the proliferation of screen use, our blink rate has significantly decreased, leading to drier eyes. To counter this, follow the 20/20 rule: close your eyes every 20 minutes for 20 seconds. Additionally, positioning your computer screen below eye level can help, as it prevents you from opening your eyes too wide, thus slowing tear evaporation​.

4. Embrace Omega-3s: A Dietary Boost for Eye Health

Eating oily fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines, trout, and mackerel can greatly benefit your eyes. These fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which research suggests can improve the function of the oil-making glands in your eyes, thus easing irritation. Other omega-3-rich foods include walnuts, vegetable oils like canola and soybean oil, and flaxseed​.

5. Humidity and Castor Oil: A Dual Approach for Maximum Comfort

Two additional remedies can work in tandem to provide relief. First, dry eyes are often caused by dry air, so using a humidifier in your home or bedroom can help maintain the moisture level in your eyes. Secondly, castor oil, which is found in many eye drops, can be used at home to keep your eyes moisturized and reduce redness. Just place one drop of castor oil in each eye a few times a day​.

Conclusion

Dry eyes don’t have to be your everyday reality. By incorporating these five home remedies into your daily routine, you can take control of your eye health and start experiencing the world with fresh, comfortable eyes. Remember, always consult your doctor before starting any new treatments to ensure they’re suitable for you. Here’s to your eye health in 2023 and beyond!