Do you struggle with using eye products?

Seunga (Jasmine) Han, PharmD Student

Whether it be for allergies, an infection or another medical reason, most of us have used some sort of eye products (eye drops and ointments) before. In today’s article, we’ll go over some general tips and recommendations for using these eye products.

First, let’s go over some tips on how to properly store your eye products:

• Keep eye products out of the reach of children
• Don’t share eye products with another person
• Close containers tightly after use
• Store eye products in a cool, dark place, unless otherwise stated.
• Discard the product:
  • If there is a colour change
  • If it was opened >1 month ago
  • Immediately after use if it’s a single-dose package without preservatives

The following are some general tips for using eye products:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after using the products
• Don’t allow the tip of the container to touch the eyes, eyelids, eyelashes, fingers, or counter surface (to prevent contamination)
• Be sure to put the cap of the container on a clean tissue when you’re using the product to avoid contamination of the cap
• Some products may blur your vision for a short time. Don’t drive or perform hazardous tasks until you can see clearly again

While eye products may cause slight irritation and temporary changes to your vision, these symptoms alone typically don’t require you to stop using your eye product. However, the following describe situations where discontinuation of your eye products, and consulting your eye doctor, may be warranted: