Dry eye disease is a common condition that occurs when your tears cannot adequately lubricate your eyes. This can lead to painful inflammation and damage the surface of your eyes.

Artificial tears are nonprescription eyedrops used to lubricate dry eyes and maintain moisture on the outer surface. These eyedrops can be used to treat dry eyes due to aging; certain medications; a medical condition; eye surgery; or environmental factors, such as smoky or windy conditions.

Besides lubricating your eyes, some artificial tears also promote healing of the eyes, and others work to decrease tear evaporation. No single brand works best for every form of dry eyes. You may need to try several different brands before you find one that works best for you.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span>

Learn more about selecting eyedrops to treat your dry eyes from Dr. Alaina Softing Hataye, a Mayo Clinic optometrist.