Myths about artificial tears and dry eye

Dry eye syndrome is one of the most frequent reasons for consultation in ophthalmology. Many people use artificial tears to relieve dryness, irritation, or the sensation of grit in the eyes. However, despite their widespread use, there are still numerous myths and misuse errors that can limit their effectiveness or create confusion.

What are artificial tears and why are they used?

Artificial tears are eye drops designed to lubricate and stabilize the surface of the eye, partially mimicking the function of natural tears. Their main goal is to relieve symptoms associated with dry eye, such as:

• Sensation of dryness
• Itching or irritation
• Sensation of a foreign body or grit
• Fluctuating blurred vision
• Red or tired eyes

These solutions contain different lubricating components, such as hyaluronic acid, carboxymethylcellulose, or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, which help improve ocular hydration and stabilize the tear film.

Common myths about artificial tears

Although they are safe products and widely recommended, many misconceptions circulate around artificial tears.

Myth 1: “Artificial tears cure dry eye”

This is one of the most common mistakes.

Artificial tears do not cure dry eye syndrome; they relieve symptoms and improve lubrication of the ocular surface. Dry eye is a multifactorial disease that can have various causes, such as:

• Meibomian gland dysfunction
• Inflammation of the ocular surface
• Intensive screen use
• Hormonal changes
• Certain medications

Therefore, in many cases, treatment requires other complementary strategies, such as eyelid hygiene, anti-inflammatory treatments, or specific therapies for the ocular surface.

Myth 2: “All artificial tears are the same”

Not all artificial tears have the same composition or indication.
There are different formulations designed for specific types of dry eye. Some have greater lubricating capacity, while others aim to improve tear film stability.

The choice of artificial tear should be adapted to the type of dry eye and the characteristics of the patient.

Myth 3: “If I use artificial tears, my eyes will become dependent”

A common concern is that the eye will “get used to” artificial tears and stop producing natural tears.
In reality, artificial tears do not cause dependence. Their function is simply to supplement or improve ocular lubrication, especially when natural tears are insufficient or of poor quality.
In patients with chronic dry eye, regular use may be necessary to maintain ocular comfort.

Myth 4: “The more drops, the better”

Excessive use of artificial tears does not always improve symptoms.

Applying them too frequently may cause:

• Washing out of the natural tear film
• Temporary decrease in vision due to excess lubricant
• Irritation if they contain preservatives

For this reason, it is important to follow the regimen recommended by the ophthalmologist, especially when the drops contain preservatives.

Myth 5: “Artificial tears replace an ophthalmological check-up” 

Many people use artificial tears for months without consulting a specialist.

However, dry eye symptoms may also be associated with other conditions, such as:

• Blepharitis
• Meibomian gland dysfunction
• Ocular allergy
• Ocular surface disorders

An appropriate diagnosis makes it possible to identify the real cause of the problem and establish the most suitable treatment.

Common mistakes when using artificial tears

In addition to these myths, there are some very common usage errors.

When should you consult an ophthalmologist?

If dry eye symptoms persist despite the use of artificial tears, an ophthalmological evaluation is recommended.

At Barraquer, we analyze the ocular surface using specific tests that allow us to assess:

• Tear film stability
• Tear production
• The condition of the Meibomian glands
• The presence of ocular inflammation

This evaluation makes it possible to identify the cause of dry eye and design a personalized treatment.

Artificial tears are a fundamental tool for relieving dry eye symptoms, but their effectiveness largely depends on using them correctly and choosing the appropriate formulation.

Avoiding myths and common mistakes allows better use of their benefits and improves ocular comfort. At Barraquer, we understand that dry eye can significantly affect quality of life. Therefore, a specialized evaluation is key to identifying the cause of the problem and offering the most appropriate treatment for each patient.

Dr. Anna Hermosa, ophthalmologist at Barraquer Ophthalmology Centre