The Best Over-the-Counter Eye Drops for Allergies and Dry Eye

Mild to Moderate Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye symptoms can range from occasional dryness to persistent discomfort. Mild to moderate dry eye often feels like a gritty sensation, occasional burning or stinging, and intermittent blurry vision. Common causes include dry air, air conditioning, prolonged reading, or natural tear film instability. For these everyday dry eye concerns, two OTC products provide reliable relief. 

Refresh Optive® GEL Drops

For those experiencing dryness that goes beyond occasional irritation, Refresh Optive® GEL Drops are a great choice. These gel-based drops can be used any time, day or night, creating a soothing protective layer on the eye’s surface. Their thicker consistency offers long-lasting moisture, helping to relieve moderate dry eye symptoms. Whether dealing with dry office air or seasonal allergies, Refresh Optive® GEL Drops provide gentle, all-day comfort to keep your eyes feeling refreshed. 

Refresh Relieva® PF

When mild to moderate dryness flares up during the day, Refresh Relieva® PF offers a preservative-free solution designed for daytime use. These drops lock in moisture and help prevent further irritation, making them perfect for active individuals seeking effective relief without the stinging sensation some eye drops cause. The preservative-free formula is gentle on sensitive eyes, delivering sustained lubrication so you can stay comfortable without frequent rubbing or reaching for tissues. 

Dryness Caused by Screen Time

As we spend increasing amounts of time on computers, tablets, smartphones, and TVs, digital eye strain has become a common issue. Staring at screens reduces your blink rate, causing tears to evaporate faster than they can be replenished. This often results in dry, tired eyes that burn, itch, or feel gritty—especially when you need your vision to be sharpest. 

Refresh Digital® PF

Refresh Digital® PF is specially designed to address the rapid dryness that comes with extended screen time. These preservative-free drops are perfect for use during or immediately after long periods on digital devices. They mimic natural tears to quickly restore moisture and provide relief without blurring your vision. The lightweight formula soothes irritation, helping you blink naturally and return to your screen with clear, comfortable eyes. 

Moderate to Severe Dry Eye Syndrome

If your eyes feel extremely dry, especially overnight, finding relief during sleep is essential to avoid waking up irritated. Moderate to severe dry eye may be caused by chronic tear-film instability, certain medications, or environmental factors such as low humidity. Without adequate lubrication at night, eyes can become red, scratchy, and uncomfortable by morning. 

Refresh PM®

Refresh PM® is specifically formulated for nighttime use, creating a protective, slow-release barrier that locks in moisture throughout the night. Its thick, ointment-like texture stays on the eye longer than typical drops, providing continuous hydration and soothing relief for severe dry eye symptoms. Applying Refresh PM® before bed helps you wake up with refreshed, comfortable eyes, reducing morning dryness and lessening the need for heavy daytime drops. 

Allergy Relief

Allergy season often brings itchy, watery eyes triggered by pollen, dust, or pet dander, making it hard to concentrate or enjoy outdoor activities. Instead of constantly rubbing or rinsing, antihistamine eye drops target the underlying cause by blocking the chemicals responsible for allergic reactions. 

Pataday®

Pataday® is a doctor-recommended, effective option for all-day relief from allergy symptoms. Many users apply it once in the morning and again in the evening to maintain comfort. It works by blocking histamine, the main cause of itching and tearing during allergies. With a single application providing up to 24 hours of protection, Pataday® helps keep your eyes calm and clear, so you can enjoy time outdoors without the constant urge to rub or wipe tears away. 

Choosing the Right OTC Eye Drops & When to See a Specialist

Selecting the most effective eye drops starts with identifying the cause of your discomfort. For occasional dryness, grittiness, or brief episodes of blurred vision, a mild lubricant like Refresh Relieva® PF during the day or a thicker formula such as Refresh Optive® GEL for all-day relief can help restore comfort. If your eyes feel dry after long hours in front of a computer or gaming device, Refresh Digital® PF provides fast-acting relief tailored to the decreased blink rate common during screen time. For severe dryness that worsens overnight, Refresh PM® creates a protective moisture shield so you wake up refreshed. And for itchy, watery eyes during allergy season, Pataday® offers up to 24 hours of antihistamine relief with just one or two daily applications.

Once you’ve found the product that matches your symptoms, it’s essential to follow the directions carefully. Always wash your hands before using drops, avoid letting the bottle tip touch your eyes or skin, and keep the cap tightly closed to prevent contamination. Pay attention to preservative warnings, especially if your eyes are sensitive, and discard bottles once they expire. 

While OTC drops can address many mild to moderate eye issues, persistent or worsening symptoms require professional evaluation. If you notice increasing redness, pain, discharge, sensitivity to light, or vision changes that don’t improve within a week of proper use, schedule an appointment at eyecarecenter. Our doctors can identify underlying conditions such as blepharitis, infections, or other serious eye concerns and provide targeted treatments to restore your clear, comfortable vision.