5 Surprising Products That Might Be Making Your Dry Eye Worse

If you struggle with dry eye syndrome, you likely already avoid long hours on screens or dry air environments. But did you know that some everyday products could be making your symptoms worse without you realizing it? Let’s look at five surprising culprits that may be contributing to your discomfort.

At Kirk Eye Center, patients with dry eye and other medical eye conditions benefit from Dr. John Kirk’s commitment to advanced treatments and personalized care rooted in more than 25 years of experience. Serving Northern Colorado since 1991, Dr. Kirk offers comprehensive, state-of-the-art ophthalmology services, all in one convenient location to help patients find lasting relief and comfort.

1. Makeup Removers with Alcohol or Fragrance

Many makeup removers contain harsh ingredients like alcohol, witch hazel, or added fragrances that can irritate the delicate skin around the eyes. These substances may seep into your tear film and disrupt natural lubrication, leaving your eyes feeling dry, itchy, or gritty.

2. Anti-Aging Skincare Products

Retinol creams and anti-aging serums often contain strong ingredients that, if applied too close to the eyes, can inflame the tear glands or the surrounding tissues. Even if you’re not applying them directly to your lids, they can migrate while you sleep and contribute to dryness or irritation.

3. Contact Lens Cleaning Solutions

Certain multipurpose contact lens solutions contain preservatives that can irritate sensitive eyes, especially for dry eye sufferers. Switching to preservative-free solutions or daily disposable lenses may help reduce symptoms.

4. Air Fresheners and Scented Candles

While they may smell nice, air fresheners and scented candles release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that irritate the eyes. These airborne chemicals may contribute to eye dryness, especially in poorly ventilated rooms.

5. Eyelash Extensions and Adhesives

The glue used for lash extensions often contains formaldehyde or cyanoacrylate, which can cause inflammation and interfere with your tear production. Even the weight of the lashes can stress the eyelid margins and affect the meibomian glands that help keep eyes moist.

Say Goodbye to Irritated Eyes with Expert Dry Eye Treatment in Loveland, CO

If you’re dealing with persistent dry eye, it might be time to review the products you use every day. Choosing gentler, fragrance-free alternatives and discussing your symptoms with Dr. Kirk can make a world of difference in your eye comfort.

Need relief from dry eyes? Call us at 970-669-1107 to schedule a consultation today and discover effective treatment options.