Dry Eye Bedtime Routine

So, you read our last blog post and now you’ve started a great morning routine to help your dry eye symptoms throughout the day (if you missed it, you can check it out here). Awesome! But did you know it is just as important to have a daily bedtime routine for dry eyes?  As well as getting into your pyjamas, brushing your teeth and settling into bed, you should consider adding in some steps to support your dry eyes overnight. 

It is important to keep dry eye symptoms under control during the night, as dry eyes can often worsen when you are asleep. Research suggests that this can be due to factors such as changes in metabolism, tear film evaporation or nocturnal lagophthalmos (the inability to close your eyelids fully during sleep). Establishing a quick and simple daily bedtime routine will help promote eye health, ensure a restful night's sleep and set you up for a successful tomorrow. 

Below is an example of what your daily bedtime dry eye care routine could look like. This can be amended to best suit your needs and the time you have available. If your symptoms persist, we recommend consulting with your healthcare practitioner for advice.

Step 1: Use a Cleanser

Using a cleanser is a great way to ensure the dirt, debris and any irritants that have built up during the day are washed away and your eyes are clean when you go to bed. It is particularly important for women to ensure that any make-up is removed prior to sleep, as make-up is a known irritant for dry eyes (read more about this here).

Blephadex, Ocusoft Original, Ocusoft Plus, Ocusoft Platinum or Eye Eco Tea Tree Oil Foam 1% or 2% are all great options to use, depending on your eye care needs. They can either be left on or washed off after a short amount of time (such as the time taken to brush your teeth or get a shower). Alternatively, you can use an eyelid wipe and we have a great variety from Blephadex & Ocusoft.

Step 2: Apply a Compress

For the ultimate relief for sore and tired eyes, apply a cold compress that has been kept in the freezer during the day. This provides an instant soothing effect and is a wonderful way to wind down before bed. We recommend leaving the compress on for around 5 – 10 minutes whilst you do some night time stretches (multitasking at its finest)!

We recommend using the DERM Dry Eye Relief Mask as this can either be popped in the freezer throughout the day or heated as desired

Step 3: Apply an Eye Gel

Eye gels are an excellent way to provide lubrication for your eyes overnight and help alleviate the symptoms of dry eyes when you wake up the next morning. They have a long ocular surface retention time, meaning they can help keep eyes moist whilst you are sleeping without having to reapply. We particularly love the Optimel Manuka Forte Eye Gel as it is enriched with anti-bacterial manuka honey to provide night time relief.

Step 4: Use an Eye Mask Overnight

Using an eye mask overnight will help to ensure your eyes stay moist, an important factor in managing the symptoms of dry eyes. An eye mask stops air from reaching your eyes whilst you sleep and can help stop tears evaporating overnight. We recommend using a Tranquileyes XL Advanced Mask for ultimate overnight dry eye relief. 

 

A night time routine for dry eyes does not have to be complicated, but it can help provide some much-needed relief for sore and tired eyes. 

 

With all of our products, please read the instructions provided by the manufacturer and use only as directed. Our description is based upon our personal experience and we recommend you consult with a healthcare provider to determine if this product is suitable for you.